Lab Technician/Senior Lab Technician

Position Description

The department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering of the College of Engineering seeks culturally and professionally diverse candidates to apply for the Lab Tech/Senior Lab Tech position. Since its inception in 1996, the Virginia Commonwealth University College of Engineering has brought innovative, real-world engineering education to Central Virginia. Comprised of five different departments plus the Dean’s office, the College of Engineering enrolls more than 1,700 undergraduate and 250 graduate students in several degree programs supported by approximately 550 full-time, part-time, and student employees. As part of a premier research university known for tenacity, love of the city of Richmond, and commitment to diversity and access, the College of Engineering values the significant and positive impact of our people and ideas in the promotion of regional and global prosperity involving research and life sciences.

The Lab Tech/Senior Lab Tech will be responsible for undergraduate instructional laboratory preparation, upkeep, ordering and inventory, managing waste and safety records, routine equipment maintenance, and fulfilling student/faculty work orders associated with the College of Engineering Makerspace Facilities. This position requires an individual with experience working specifically with technical equipment associated with 3D printing and Industrial/Machine Shop equipment coupled with a strong knowledge of instrument calibration, maintenance, and repair of all types of engineering lab testing equipment, electronic troubleshooting, and occupational/facilities safety.

Essential Responsibilities include:

• Prepare instructional laboratories as needed and assist in coordinating daily activities.
• Maintain inventory of laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Assist with the installation of laboratory equipment.
• Responsible for instrument calibration and diagnostic testing.
• Assists with the design and lab procedures for various courses and research projects.
• Responsible for routine maintenance and repair of laboratory instruments.
• Maintain effective communication with the Director of Maker Spaces, Maker Space Staff, and MNE laboratory staff.
• Provide laboratory support for faculty and students.
• Provide safety training for students prior to using the equipment. Work closely with the operations and safety staff to ensure compliance and maintain safety protocols.

Minimum Qualifications:

• B.S. Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, or training and equivalent work experience at a level that equates to a B.S. Degree
• Experience with hand and power tools
• Knowledge of CAD software
• Excellent Record Keeping
• Knowledge and understanding of mechanical/electrical engineering diagrams/drawings
• Ability to operate with comfort in an environment equipped with 3D printing and basic industrial equipment or similar
• Must be mechanically inclined and willing to learn
• Possess the desire to be a leader by helping others who are less experienced while ensuring the highest level of user safety
• Ability and willingness to work through problems logically and apply innovative solutions
• Excellent communication skills to ensure accuracy of reporting and laboratory training
• Possess the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Maintain customer focus, motivate self, and demonstrate a high degree of urgency.
• Willing to occasionally work evenings and weekends and travel to other campus locations as needed
• The College of Engineering supports a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment. The candidate will demonstrate experience that shows their commitment to fostering such an environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated knowledge with instrument calibration, maintenance, and repair of 3D printing equipment, industrial/machine shop equipment, and various types of advanced engineering equipment.
• Experience in SolidWorks
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• Knowledge in CAM, FEA, and/or Programming
• Experience as an engineering technician, tradesman, and/or journeyman (electrical, HVAC, machinist, etc.)
• Knowledge in Mechanical and/or Electrical Design, implementation, and performance verification

Additional Information:

ORP Eligible: No

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

University Job Slotting: Lab/Research Technician (1-3) or Sr. Lab/Research Technician (4-6)