Facility and Operations Technician

Job Title:

Facility and Operations Technician.

Department: ERIK | Institute for Materials Research.

The Facility and Operations Technician supports the day‑to‑day operation, maintenance, and technical functions of Ohio State’s Battery Cell Research and Demonstration Center. The Center is managed and operated by the Institute for Materials and Manufacturing Research (IMR) within the Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge (ERIK). Reporting to the Facility and Operations Manager, the Technician ensures the reliability and readiness of facility systems, equipment, and manufacturing assets.

Responsibilities include equipment installation, troubleshooting, maintenance, inventory control, and safe operations, directly supporting research, development, demonstration, and training involving advanced battery materials, electrode fabrication, cell assembly, characterization, and testing.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two years of experience working with technical equipment in a laboratory, manufacturing, or pilot‑scale production environment.
• Hands‑on experience with equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, or calibration.
• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, or electromechanical systems and safe operating practices.
• Familiarity with industrial or research safety procedures, including chemical handling, PPE use, hazard identification, and lockout/tagout.
• Comfortable working at heights, including inspecting and maintaining rooftop equipment (exhaust fans, chillers, etc.).
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, schematics, and operating procedures.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
• Proactive, independent work ethic, managing multiple tasks and adapting to evolving project needs.
• U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence.

• Associate's degree in engineering technology, mechanical/electrical technology, industrial systems, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience in battery materials, electrode processing, cell assembly, or advanced materials manufacturing.
• Experience working with compressed gas cylinders (argon, hydrogen, nitrogen).
• Experience in dry room, cleanroom, or controlled‑environment facilities.
• Experience maintaining pilot‑scale or industrial machinery (mixers, coaters, vacuum systems, pumps, mechanical and electrical systems).
• Certification or formal training in maintenance, safety, or industrial systems.
• Experience supporting collaborative research and development environments with academic and industry partners.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or quality control systems.

• A resume is required.

The hourly pay range for this position is $22.93–$29.95, commensurate with qualifications, internal equity, and budget.

Must safely access rooftop equipment regularly, which may involve climbing ladders, with or without reasonable accommodation.

This is a fully in‑person position located at Kinnear Rd, 1275‑1305 (0395), First Shift. Regular working hours are expected; overtime may be required to resolve emergencies involving equipment or facility malfunctions. The position requires U.S. citizenship or permanent residency; visa sponsorship is not available.

Join the Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge at The Ohio State University to contribute to pioneering research, innovation, and excellence. ERIK expands curiosity‑driven research and the innovation ecosystem to address global challenges. For more about the mission, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Function:
  Research Administration
• Sub function:
  Laboratory Research and Operations
• Career Band and Level: Technical‑3

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post‑offer process.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.