Hourly Laboratory Assistant

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