Lead Shop Technician: Vehicle Systems & Fabrication

University of Michigan; Ann Arbor (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Engineering Systems Group (ESG) at UMTRI is hiring a Lead Shop Technician to provide technical leadership and hands-on expertise in support of transportation research programs. The successful candidate will supervise technicians, design and fabricate lab equipment, and lead vehicle testing efforts.

Requires extensive fabrication/welding experience, machine shop skills, and strong wiring knowledge; onsite work with occasional testing coordination across UMTRI facilities.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree or diploma in automotive technology, welding, fabrication, machining, engineering technology, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in fabrication, vehicle repair, or related discipline.
• Vehicle electrical wiring experience including wiring harness fabrication and repair, soldering, etc.
• High level of machine shop and welding expertise and ability to train others.
• Extensive knowledge of light/heavy duty vehicle assembly, maintenance, and operation.
• Strong ability in disassembly/reassembly of automotive interiors and mechanical systems.
• Strong ability in testing and diagnosis of electronics, instrumentation, and wiring systems using DVMs.
• Skilled at overhead crane and forklift operation.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship not available for this position.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and design laboratory equipment for experiments; perform complex experiments and prepare results.
• Select materials, methods and equipment for experimental projects and fabricating tools.
• Design, fabricate, modify, maintain and repair tools and equipment; welds on steel and aluminum; operate machine tools.
• Read and interpret mechanical drawings and electrical schematics; resolve design problems with staff.
• Provide functional supervision for technicians and coordinate work with staff.
• Provide training and oversight for technicians in vehicle and equipment operation.
• Install complex test equipment in vehicles and lead tests, often supervising others.
• Schedule and coordinate use of shop space with other UMTRI groups.
• Assist with loading/unloading of freight and coordinate moving office furniture/equipment.
• Oversee machine shop and vehicle work bays; ensure OSHA compliance and purchase tools/supplies.
• Operate vehicles and experimental equipment during track/on-road testing and coordinate activities.

Skills

Fabrication & welding

Diagnostics

Electrical wiring

Machine shop operation

Supervisory skills

Vehicle operation

Education

Associate's degree or certificate in automotive technology / related field

Tools

Milling machines

Lathes

Welding equipment

DVMs

Job description

The Engineering Systems Group (ESG) at UMTRI is hiring a Lead Shop Technician to provide technical leadership and hands-on expertise in support of transportation research programs. The successful candidate will supervise technicians, design and fabricate lab equipment, and lead vehicle testing efforts.

Requires extensive fabrication/welding experience, machine shop skills, and strong wiring knowledge; onsite work with occasional testing coordination across UMTRI facilities.