Entry-Level Mechanical Technician - Composite Lab

Wayne State University; Dayton (OH); Hybrid; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) seeks an entry-level Mechanical Technician to support mechanical and physical characterization of advanced composite materials in a hands-on laboratory setting.

You will assist with sample fabrication, dimensional metrology, assembly and maintenance of test systems, environmental conditioning of specimens, and general lab operations, under supervision with on-the-job training.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to follow instructions.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint to record data.

Responsibilities

• Support mechanical and physical characterization of composite materials.
• Assist with fabrication of samples and prepare test specimens.
• Perform basic dimensional metrology and maintain lab records.
• Assemble and maintain mechanical test systems and instrumentation.
• Environmentally condition test samples and support general lab operations.

Skills

Strong mechanical aptitude

Detail oriented

Ability to lift up to 40 lbs

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

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The Composites Behavior & Testing (CBT) Team within the Advanced Composites (AC) Group at the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) seeks a motivated Entry-Level Mechanical Technician to support the testing of advanced composite materials. This role is ideal for candidates who are eager to learn hands-on technical skills in a laboratory environment and grow under the guidance of experienced engineers and technicians.

In this position, the candidate will work closely with test engineers and senior technical staff to support mechanical and physical characterization of novel composite materials. The candidate will assist with the fabrication of samples, perform basic dimensional metrology, help assemble and maintain mechanical test systems and instrumentation, environmentally condition test samples, fabricate composite materials using a variety of processes, and support general laboratory operations. Training will be provided, and the candidate will shadow senior staff as they develop proficiency with specialized equipment and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications:

T1 Minimum Qualifications:
• High School Diploma or GED
• Able to perform arithmetic calculations for the verification of machinery assemblies, stress & strain calculations, and validation of test data. Have a working understanding of basic algebra and trigonometry, and SI/US customary units.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and aerospace industry quality procedures while working safely in a laboratory environment
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint to record test data, maintain laboratory supplies, and project records.
• Capable of prioritizing tasks to meet goals and produce quality work.
• Willingness to learn new technical skills and work closely with senior staff and peers
• Detail oriented and capable of completing multiple time-sensitive tasks concurrently.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in hands-on technical work
• Ability to lift and move materials or equipment up to 40 lbs
• Basic familiarity with hand tools and measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.)
• Strong interpersonal/teamwork skills and demonstrated ability to effectively communicate both written and verbally.
• Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S. citizen.

T2 Minimum Qualifications:
Same minimum qualifications as a T1 plus 3 years of experience. Formal mechanical training beyond high school can be substituted for two years of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

While not everyone may possess all of the preferred qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring many of the following:

• Experience working with data acquisition systems and instrumentation. (Extensometry, Digital Image Correlation, Strain Gages, LVDT’s, deflectometers).
• Experience in data reduction and analysis techniques.
• Machine shop experience; basic tooling and jig design and fabrication.
• Experience with ISO 9001:2015, 17025, or NADCAP quality system practices.

Special Instructions:

To apply please submit a cover letter addressing each minimum qualification and any applicable preferred qualifications that you meet.

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the dignity of every human being. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity in all of its forms, achieve fair outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. The University is committed to policies of affirmative action designed to increase the employment opportunities of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1973.