Research Assistant W.M. Keck Center

Position: Research Assistant for W.M. Keck Center
Position Information

Hiring Department: W.M. Keck Center

Reports To:

Executive Director

Job Location:

El Paso, TX;
Onsite

Posting End Date:
Open until filled. This posting may close once a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received.

Hours:

40 hours per week, standard Monday
- Friday 8:00am- 5:00pm, flexibility is required on evenings and weekends

FLSA status:
Exempt

Earliest

Start Date:

As soon as possible.

Salary: $42,436 annually

Required Application Materials:

* Resume

* Cover Letter

* List of three references

Incomplete applications will not considered.

Note:

This is a full time, temporary contingent upon availability of funds position with a possibility of extension and is eligible for full benefits, including medical, dental, and vision.

Position Summary

Under limited supervision and with latitude for independent judgment, the Research Assistant supports the W.M. Keck Center's additive manufacturing operations. The role focuses heavily on hands-on machine maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting across the full suite of additive manufacturing systems with a predominant focus on technical, operational, and equipment-focused responsibilities that ensure continuity of research and production activities. May supervise the work of others.

General Duties and Responsibilities include the following.

* Collects, compiles, and analyzes research data.

* Uses statistical methods and relational databases to analyze data sets.

* Prepares or assists with preparing reports of research findings.

* Assist with planning, developing, coordinating, and administering research projects.

* Assists with formulating research objectives, programs, and priorities.

* Assists with authoring or editing technical reports and summary findings.

* May assist in designing and creating computer programs for research applications.

* May train users on the operation and data management of research equipment.

* Knowledge of all Microsoft Office software and able to learn and use institutional software systems.

* Complies with all State and University policies.

* Other duties may be assigned.

Keck Center-Specific Duties and Responsibilities include the following.

* Operates, calibrates, and maintains additive manufacturing equipment to ensure optimal machine performance across Keck Center operations.

* Diagnoses and troubleshoots hardware and software issues that arise during machine operation, collaborating with engineering and research staff to resolve recurring or critical problems.

* Assists in developing and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for equipment use, maintenance, safety, and calibration.

* Supports day-to-day operational readiness by ensuring machines are clean, stocked with materials, and functioning within expected tolerances.

* Leads or assists with routine preventive maintenance schedules and tracks equipment performance logs.

* Supports research efforts by operating equipment for test builds, production runs, and sample fabrication required by various research and industry projects.

* Maintains familiarity with CAD, slicing, and machine control software, and provides input on parameter selection, build planning, and system improvements.

* Assists in training other staff, students, and interns on safe and effective machine usage and proper lab practices.

* Participates in collaborative efforts with other researchers to ensure alignment between project needs and operational capabilities.

* May contribute to the preparation of technical reports, logs, and documentation required by research sponsors or internal records.

* Ensures adherence to ITAR and export compliance protocols when handling sensitive projects or equipment.

* Understands that participation in the Keck Center requires proactive engagement, a commitment to hands-on excellence, and tangible contributions to the success of operations.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

May carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's objectives, policies and applicable laws. May mentor or supervise student researchers, interns, or lower-level technicians assigned to assist with operational duties.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor's degree

and

Experience:

At least one year of hands-on experience in additive manufacturing equipment operation, and material characterization

Applicants Must Demonstrate

* Strong mechanical aptitude and experience with machine tools or manufacturing systems

* Basic understanding of CAD, G-code, and slicing software.

* Ability to work independently on assigned machine tasks and collaboratively across a multidisciplinary team.

* Capacity to learn and apply complex troubleshooting protocols involving electromechanical, optical, and thermal subsystems.

* Demonstrates commitment to safety, accountability, and technical…