Engineering Technician - Manufacturing Lab

Engineering Technician in Mechanical Engineering

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 Engineering Technician in Mechanical Engineering will be responsible for supporting robot-based manufacturing research groups such as laser arc welding and wire arc welding within the Mechanical Engineering department. Knowledge of sensors, data acquisition and control, and metrology is a plus. The job description also involves some scheduling, documenting, training, operation, and maintaining research-level equipment, including welding robots, and metrology, sample preparation, and testing equipment.

This position requires a `hands-on' technician with a broad skill set, with an eagerness to learn and teach. In addition to the technical aspects, the position requires significant communication skills to successfully interact with a diverse group of students, faculty, and staff members. The candidate should possess a natural collaborative spirit to support all individuals and maintain a safe learning environment.

This is a term-limited assignment through June 30, 2029, with the possibility of extension based on securing future funding.

Duties include:

• 50% - Operation and maintenance or research equipment described above
• 10% - Creation of written standard operating procedures for all machines
• 30% - Graduate and undergraduate student training, mentoring, and monitoring
• 10% - Scheduling machine use, tracking billing for consumables, and general oversight

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field with one to three years of experience in mechanical or electrical operation, laboratory testing or machinery repair
• Experience operating robots, computers, and related software
• Operations management of people, processes, or facilities
• Experience in the operation, calibration, maintenance, and repair of scientific equipment
• Ability to stay well-organized, work independently, follow established procedures, and manage time to meet project deadlines
• Must be able to move and transport equipment up to 30 lbs.
• Excellent communication skills
• Demonstrated experience in following and monitoring safety protocols

• Prior experience in machining/fabrication and basic hand/power tools
• Experience with operation and safety plans
• Quality-conscious and detail-oriented
• Knowledge of U-M resources, policies, and procedures
• Experience training, observing, and correcting novice users in a laboratory environment

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. Learn more about the work modes.

This is a term-limited position through June 30, 2029, with possible renewal based on funding extension.

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.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.