Advanced Manufacturing Technologist

Penn State University; New Kensington (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 66,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Benefits package

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University seeks an Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Technologist to support development of concepts, equipment, and processes and to assist with specialized training in CNC machining, robotics, automation, and simulation for engineering students and workforce.

The role bridges skills gaps and drives innovation in manufacturing through hands-on learning and industry collaboration, with a 1-year term and potential funding renewal.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or Apprenticeship in Manufacturing/Industrial Technology required.
• Bachelor’s Degree required for Advanced Professional path.
• 5+ years of relevant industry experience in advanced manufacturing.
• 5+ years of teaching/instructing in a manufacturing or technical setting.
• Proficiency in CNC programming, machine operation, and CAD/CAM.
• Robotics programming experience with Fanuc/ABB/KUKA.
• Knowledge of safety standards in manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Digital Foundry and industry partners to deploy complex electromechanical systems.
• Develop training curricula for CNC machining, robotics operation, automation, and other advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Deliver in-person and virtual training sessions, assessing participant progress.
• Stay current with industry trends and update training content regularly.

Skills

CNC programming

CAD/CAM

Robotics programming

Automation systems

Simulation software

Safety standards

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Associate degree or Apprenticeship in Manufacturing/Industrial Technology

Tools

G-code

CAD/CAM software

Fanuc robotics

ABB robotics

KUKA robotics

Simulation software

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Advance Manufacturing Engineering Technologist support development of new concepts, equipment, and processes and assist with specialized training programs advanced manufacturing technologies, manufacturing simulation, robotics operation and programming, CNC machining, and automation technologies. The ideal candidate will leverage industry experience and educational expertise to support a diverse portfolio of industry development projects and unique hands-on learning experiences for engineering students and manufacturing workforce. This role plays a critical part in bridging the skills gap, enhancing workforce competencies, and driving innovation in manufacturing processes through Digital Foundry programming provided to regional workforce and manufacturing businesses.

Key Responsibilities

• Industry Project Support - 35%

  • Collaborate with the Digital Foundry team and our industry partners to understand relevant technologies and processes and assist with development, deployment and maintenance of complex electromechanical systems.
  • Provide technical support and consultation for industry development projects focused on process improvement, automation, and technology integration.
  • Collaborate closely with engineers and project managers on the execution of industry projects, contributing expertise and innovative concepts in areas of CAD design, computer numeric controls, robotics, 3D printing, and automation.
  • Operate, test and maintain advance manufacturing and electromechanical equipment and systems needed for training and development projects in advanced manufacturing.

• Training Program Development - 35%

  • Design and develop comprehensive training curricula for CNC machining, robotics operation, automation systems, and other advanced manufacturing technologies.
  • Create training materials, including instructional manuals, digital simulations, and hands-on lab activities.
  • Tailor programs to meet the needs of various skill levels, from high school to entry-level and experienced workers.

• Instruction and Workforce Training - 20%

  • Deliver engaging and effective training sessions, both in-person and virtually, to workforce participants.
  • Provide hands-on instruction in CNC machining, robotics, programming, automation, and simulation software.
  • Assess the progress of participants through evaluations, tests, and practical demonstrations.

• Continuous Improvement and Industry Alignment - 10%

  • Stay current with industry trends, tools, and best practices in manufacturing, automation, and workforce development.
  • Update training content and hands-on lab activities regularly to align with evolving industry standards and technological advancements.
  • Gather feedback from trainees and industry partners to refine and improve training future offerings.

Requirements

• Education:
  • Minimum Associate’s degree, Apprenticeship in Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or a related field is required.
  • Certifications in CNC machining, robotics programming, automation systems, and/or related fields are highly desirable.
• Experience:
  • 5+ years of relevant industry experience in advanced manufacturing technologies.
  • 5+ years of experience as a teacher, instructor in a manufacturing or technical setting.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in computer numeric controls programming, machine operation, and related software (e.g., G-code, CAD/CAM software).
  • knowledgeable in robotics programming (e.g., Fanuc, ABB, KUKA) and industrial automation systems.
  • Familiarity with simulation software and tools used in manufacturing and process automation.
  • Strong understanding of safety standards and best practices in a manufacturing environment.
• Other Skills:
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

This is a term position funded for 1 year with excellent possibility of re-funding.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Engineering Technologist - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor’s Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Engineering Technologist - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor’s Degree1+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $65,508.00 - $108,444.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State’s salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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