Electromechanical Technician

Northwestern University; Evanston (IL); On-site; USD 42,804 - 50,112; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid vacation

Retirement savings options

Job summary

Northwestern University seeks candidates for three identical positions focused on the assembly and testing of particle physics detectors at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. This role involves ensuring safe assembly of complex components and performing quality control checks.

The ideal applicant will have a high school diploma with additional science courses, or a bachelor's degree in a related field. The positions are full-time with comprehensive benefits and a flexible work environment.

Qualifications

• Basic science courses are required.
• Experience with testing delicate systems is preferred.
• Ability to work in a cleanroom environment is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Perform assembly and testing activities for particle physics detectors.
• Oversee automated assembly and conduct quality control checks.
• Maintain records of assembly steps and quality control results.

Skills

Component assembly

Quality control

Automation software (Python)

Low-temperature testing

Education

HS diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in physics, computer science or electrical/computer engineering

Job description

Department: WCAS Physics & Astronomy

Salary/Grade: NEX/9

Job Summary

Performs assembly and testing activities for components of particle physics detectors, including work with automated gantry equipment. Responsible for ensuring proper and safe assembly of a detector consisting of many similar but different components. Completes all activities strictly following agreed standard operating procedures and provides feedback to project leaders where appropriate to improve procedures. Primary work site at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory as part of a multi-institutional team involved in the US‑CMS project.

We have three (3) identical positions available. Each position is a one-year appointment from the date of hire, with the possibility of extending based on funding availability. The position is 40 hours per week; the target hiring range will be between $42,804 - $50,112 per year, which is $20.50 - $24.00 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Specific Responsibilities

Technical

• Places components onto larger assembly based on design information provided visually
• Uses hand tools to safely mount components
• Oversees automated assembly gantry systems
• Carries out quality control checks on detector components
• Works with low-temperature testing equipment (-40C)
• Packs completed detector components for international shipment
• May carry out statistical analysis of quality control data
• May develop automation and quality control software using tools such as Python

Administration

• Maintains records of detector assembly steps and quality control results
• Prepares shipment requests and monitors shipment activities

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent and some basic science courses is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with testing of components for particle physics detectors or similar complex and delicate systems.
• Successful completion of a full 4‑year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a major such as physics, computer science, or electrical/computer engineering; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
• Must be able to work in a cleanroom environment for full work days, involving a significant fraction of time standing or walking around assembly fixtures.

Benefits

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre‑tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work‑Life and Wellness

Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development

Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you are interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern’s non‑discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.