Engineering Laboratory Technician

Position Title & Department:

 Engineering Laboratory Technician; School of Engineering Posting #

5650

Department Description:

The University of San Diego's Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering does more than develop world-class engineers and computer scientists in a nationally recognized program. We help these bright minds develop into Changemakers with the global perspective, social awareness and leadership skills to make a difference in the world.

University Description:

The University of San Diego, an engaged and contemporary Catholic institution, was founded by the Diocese of San Diego and the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1949. Governed by an independent board of trustees since 1972, USD remains committed to a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. Inspired by this centuries old tradition of Catholic higher education, the University welcomes people of all faith traditions and any, or no, religious background. The future success of USD relies on the contributions of those who seek to foster the development of engaged global citizens and an earnest confrontation of humanity’s urgent challenges.

Detailed Description:

Reporting to the Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager, the Engineering Lab Technician is responsible for the maintenance, operation, and safety of equipment in the Industrial and Systems Laboratories, Mechanical Laboratories, and Electrical Laboratories. They will support faculty, staff, and students in their lab activities, ensuring a safe and productive environment. The technician will also assist in research projects and collaborate with course instructors to develop lab ideas and coursework. Additionally, the technician will supervise work-study students and perform general organizational tasks in the laboratories. The role includes safety supervision, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and student supervision.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Student Supervision and Support

• Train and supervise work-study students, ensuring their skills are utilized appropriately and safely.
• Assist students with mechanical construction aspects of classes, including woodwork.
• Provide guidance and support to students during lab activities and mechanical construction processes.

Equipment Maintenance and Operation

• Maintain and manage all high and low-end Mill and Lathe Machines, including CNC technology.
• Ensure the safe operation and maintenance of all machinery in the ME/ISE Departments' labs, Machine Shop, and Electrical Laboratories.
• Assist course instructors in operating equipment and ensuring student safety.
• Support the safe use and maintenance of specialized machines, such as the Intelitek robot arm, PLC system, computer vision system, and laser cutter.

Safety and Organization

• Maintain a safe laboratory environment by adhering to approved safety procedures.
• Manage hazardous materials, including their purchase, storage, and disposal.
• Develop and implement lab safety procedures in collaboration with the Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager.
• Conduct safety training for students and faculty, including evacuation procedures.

Laboratory Operations 

• Support equipment purchases by researching specifications, suppliers, and prices.
• Install new equipment following manufacturer instructions.
• Maintain an organized and clean inventory of tools and equipment in the laboratories.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on equipment, documenting work done and coordinating external repairs when necessary.

Special Projects and Research   

• Collaborate on special projects defined by faculty or staff, subject to approval from the Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager.
• Design and build approved projects while ensuring the safety of any assisting personnel.
• Assist in possible research projects as assigned by the Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager.