Equip Technician, Electro-Mechanical

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 72,997 - 83,845; Full time

Job summary

San José State University is seeking an Equipment Technician, Electro-Mechanical to provide advanced technical expertise in designing, fabricating, repairing, and maintaining complex scientific equipment used in the College of Science. The role oversees Central Shop operations, coordinating projects supporting instructional and research needs across departments.

Reporting to the Associate Dean for Research, you will train student assistants, ensure safety, maintain equipment records, and ensure

Qualifications

• 3 years of journey-level experience in maintenance/repair of scientific equipment, including design modifications and fabrication of complex systems.
• Apprenticeship or military specialization may substitute for part of the required experience.
• FCC license may be required for certain positions.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, modify, and maintain specialized scientific and instructional equipment.
• Diagnose and repair complex electro-mechanical systems, including refrigeration and vacuum systems.
• Maintain equipment records, safety documentation, and compliance with environmental standards.
• Coordinate shop operations and serve as a technical resource to faculty, staff, and students.
• Train and supervise student assistants; maintain a safe and efficient shop environment.

Skills

Refrigeration

Vacuum systems

Electrical diagnostics

Equipment maintenance

Safety compliance

Documentation

Customer service

Troubleshooting

Fabrication

Project coordination

Job description

Job Summary

Reporting to the Associate Dean for Research and receiving worklead direction from the College of Science Safety Officer, the Equipment Technician, Electro-Mechanical provides advanced technical expertise in designing, fabricating, repairing, and maintaining complex scientific equipment used in the College of Science. The incumbent oversees all Central Shop functions, coordinating projects that support instructional and research needs across departments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, modify, and maintain specialized scientific and instructional equipment
• Diagnose and repair complex electro-mechanical systems, including refrigeration and vacuum systems
• Manage and maintain equipment records, safety documentation, and compliance with environmental standards
• Coordinate shop operations and serve as a technical resource to faculty, staff, and students
• Train and oversee student assistants; maintain a safe and efficient shop environment

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to communicate with constituents in a professional and respectful manner
• Thorough knowledge of refrigeration (refrigerant reclaimer), vacuum pumps, various Freon’s in pressure vessels that require extreme care in handling, exposure and environment procedures
• Thorough knowledge of electrical diagnostic equipment with high and low voltage shock hazards
• Thorough knowledge of equipment repair, maintenance, troubleshooting and overhaul
• Ability to analyze equipment problems and determine what repairs are needed
• Ability to review and prepare specifications for technical equipment
• Ability to install, repair, and maintain a wide variety of equipment
• Thorough knowledge of all safety methods, procedures and practices
• Working knowledge of software applications: word processing, spreadsheet, and database management
• Ability to perform accurately in a detail-oriented environment
• Ability to handle multiple work priorities, organize and plan work and projects
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive communications with employees and external agencies
• Strong oral communication skills. Must possess excellent customer service and public relations skills
• Performs duties under all safety and environmental regulations, rules, policies and guidelines
• Recommends initiatives and changes to improve quality and services
• Identifies and determines cause of problems; develops and presents recommendations for improvement of established processes and practices
• Maintains contact with customers and solicits feedback for improved services
• Maximizes productivity through use of appropriate tools, planned training and performance initiatives. Researches and develops resources that create timely and efficient workflow
• Prepares progress reports, informs supervisor of project status and deviation from goals. Ensures completeness, accuracy and timeliness of all operational functions
• Prepares and submits reports as requested and required
• Implements guidelines to support the functions of the unit

Required Qualifications

• Equivalent to three (3) years of progressively responsible journey-level or skilled experience in the maintenance, repair and operation of scientific or technical equipment in the specialty area to which assigned, including one year involving design modifications and fabrication of complex and highly technical equipment, or equivalent to two years of semi-skilled experience maintaining and repairing scientific or technical equipment or related equipment experience as part of instructional support activities may be substituted for one year of the required experience or equivalent to two years of trade school or technical arts training with specialization in the type of equipment repair to which assigned. Completion of an apprenticeship program or completion of a full military specialization in the required type of equipment maintenance and repair may be substituted for one year of the required experience. A Federal Communications Commission license is required for some positions

Preferred Qualifications

• Two (2) years’ experience working in a machinist’s shop with thorough knowledge of methods and procedures of machine shop equipment, including woodworking, metalworking and plastics

Compensation

Classification: Equipment Technician III, Electro-Mechanical

Anticipated Hiring Range: $6,541/month - $7,513/month (Step 13 – Step 20)

CSU Salary Range: $5,157/month - $7,513/month (Step 1 – Step 20)

San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.

Application Procedure

Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest

All applicants must apply within the specified application period: November 5, 2025 through November 19, 2025. This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university.

Contact Information

University Personnel, 408-924-2252

[e-mail]

CSU Vaccination Policy

The CSU strongly recommends that all individuals who access any in-person program or activity operated or controlled by the University follow COVID-19 vaccination recommendations adopted by the CDC and CDPH and comply with other safety measures established by each campus. The system-wide policy can be found in the CSU policy documentation.

Additional Information

Satisfactory completion of a background check (including a criminal records check) is required for employment. A contingent offer of employment may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information or if the candidate knowingly withholds or falsifies information. The standard background check includes criminal check, employment and education verification. Depending on the position, a motor vehicle and/or credit check may be required. Some positions may also require fingerprinting. SJSU will pay all costs associated with this procedure. Evidence of required degree(s) or certification(s) will be required at time of hire.

SJSU is not a sponsoring agency for staff or management positions (e.g., H-1B visas). San José State University employees are mandated reporters under applicable laws and CSU executive orders; incumbents are required to comply with reporting requirements for safety, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation as applicable.

Equal Employment Statement

San José State University is an equal opportunity employer. The university prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, caste, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, nationality, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, sex stereotype, and veteran status. Reasonable accommodation is provided for applicants with disabilities who self-disclose. All employees are considered mandated reporters under relevant laws and CSU policy; compliance is a condition of employment.

Advertised: November 05, 2025 (9:00 AM) Pacific Standard Time