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Title:

Hourly Laboratory Assistant

Department:

Mechanical and Industrial Engr

Reports To:

Assistant Professor

Position Type:

Staff

Position Summary:

We are seeking a motivated and hands-on Part-Time Laboratory Assistant to provide crucial support for a dynamic, hardware-focused robotics lab. The successful candidate will work under the primary direction of Dr. Petras Swissler (Mechanical Engineering) and will also support engineering-related projects for Dr. Simon Garnier (Biology).

The core responsibilities are centered on lab operations, including administrative tasks, equipment maintenance, and hands-on assistance with engineering and manufacturing tasks.

Essential Functions:

Laboratory Operations & Maintenance:

-Maintain the general organization, cleanliness, and safety of the laboratory space.

-Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting on essential lab equipment, including 3D printers and other fabrication tools.

-Conduct repairs on mechanical and electronic equipment as needed.

-Manage the inventory of lab materials, tools, and components to ensure supplies are available.

Administrative Support:

-Manage the procurement process for lab supplies, research components, and equipment. This includes identifying vendors, obtaining quotes, and placing orders.

-Receive, unpack, and log all incoming shipments, ensuring orders are correct and properly stored.

-Assist with maintaining purchasing records and budget tracking.

Engineering & Manufacturing Support:

-Provide hands-on assistance to researchers and students with the fabrication, assembly, and testing of mechanical prototypes and robotic systems.

-Operate digital fabrication equipment such as 3D printers and laser cutters.

-Assist with a variety of manufacturing tasks as directed.

Technical Documentation:

-Create clear and concise documentation for equipment operating procedures, lab protocols, and project builds.

-Organize and maintain a digital library of technical manuals, design files, and setup guides.

Prerequisite Qualifications:

-Previous experience working in a university engineering lab, makerspace, machine shop, or similar hands-on environment.

-A demonstrated competency in fundamental engineering principles, proven through coursework and/or project work.

-Strong mechanical aptitude with a natural ability to troubleshoot and fix things.

-Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.

-Excellent communication skills and meticulous attention to detail.

-At the university's discretion, the education and experience prerequisites may be exempted where the candidate can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the university, an equivalent combination of education and experience specifically preparing the candidate for success in the position.

Preferred Qualifications:

-Experience with 2D or 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Onshape).

-Basic programming skills, especially in languages relevant to robotics and automation (e.g., Python, C++).

-Familiarity with microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi), basic circuit design, and soldering.

-Prior experience with university purchasing systems.

Salary Information:

In compliance with the NJ Pay Transparency Law, the hourly rate for this position is $35.00(USD). NJIT considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. This pay range represents base pay only and excludes any additional items such as incentives, bonuses or other items.

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

Part-Time