Engineering Technician

Who We Are

At Michigan Engineering, we develop the talent and technologies that move society forward and serve our state and national interests. Through discovery and innovation, we create the foundational knowledge and practical technologies to solve not only today's most pressing challenges, but also power industries and change lives. Our programs and community are designed to promote personal well-being and achievement—enabling everyone to unlock their potential and contribute with confidence.

The Department of Materials Science & Engineering seeks an Engineering Technician to perform a wide range of technical and engineering‑related duties in support of instructional and research laboratories. The Engineering Technician will maintain and support equipment including induction melting and heat‑treating furnaces, mechanical testing systems, metallography equipment, CNC machines, and other materials engineering measurement and/or characterization tools. This position reports to the Lab/Class Manager and works collaboratively with other engineering technicians within the Department and College.

This position is responsible for training users, including undergraduate and graduate students, on the safe and proper use of laboratory equipment. The role also oversees the safe operation, routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of department laboratory equipment within Materials Science and Engineering.

Additional duties include:

• Assist Lab Manager and students during laboratory classes and provide in‑lab support.
• Train and certify users on equipment and procedures, as applicable.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and perform repairs or coordinate service as needed.
• Coordinate with vendors on equipment issues, service calls, and parts.
• Procure laboratory supplies and maintain inventory as needed.
• Develop, update, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for equipment and tools.
• Troubleshoot electrical issues related to equipment in faculty research laboratories.
• Participate in continuous process improvement initiatives.
• Assist other team members and support department operations as needed.
• Other duties as needed.

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field, plus two years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a diverse population of students and colleagues. Proven ability to work independently while also collaborating successfully as part of a team. Ability to manage projects from start to finish while maintaining high standards of quality.

Demonstrated success working under tight deadlines and balancing competing priorities. Strong attention to detail and the ability to remain productive in a fast‑paced, frequently changing, high‑pressure environment. Willingness to support and participate in change initiatives aimed at improving service, efficiency, and productivity. Excellent attendance and dependable performance are essential.

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment.

This position will work on‑site.

Work environment activities include:

• Routinely moves equipment weighing up to 50 pounds for various classroom/event needs.
• This position may handle casting furnace and materials.
• May handle gases and/or chemicals inside laboratory.
• The person in this position frequently communicates with students about their financial aid concerns.
• May require work during early mornings, nights, and/or weekends.

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.