Mechanical Lab Assistant

University of Denver - DU - Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science - RSECS; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Denver’s Innovation Labs is seeking a part-time Lab Assistant to support the mechanical labs. You will help maintain clean spaces, assist student users with 3D printers and fabrication equipment, and help ensure safe operation of tools in a hands-on teaching environment.

You are an eligible Denver student with Federal Work-Study and a willingness to learn. Ideal candidates have shop experience, strong attention to detail, and good customer service, with the ability to work

Qualifications

• Current University of Denver undergraduate or graduate student with eligibility for Federal Work-Study through the University of Denver Financial Aid Office.
• Experience in a shop environment is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Maintain clean, orderly, and dust-free environments throughout the mechanical laboratories.
• Use brooms, shop vacuums, and other appropriate cleaning tools effectively and safely.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance, inspections, and upkeep; identify maintenance needs and complete assigned repairs.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Customer service

Teamwork

Safety-conscious

Education

Federal Work-Study eligible

Tools

3D printers

Laser engraver

Laser cutters

Woodworking tools

Job description

Essential Functions

Maintain clean, orderly, and dust-free environments throughout the mechanical laboratories, including sweeping, vacuuming sawdust and debris, and cleaning work surfaces and equipment.

• Use brooms, shop vacuums, and other appropriate cleaning tools effectively and safely.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance, inspections, and upkeep; identify maintenance needs and complete assigned repairs within training and authorization.
• Diagnose mechanical or operational problems, investigate likely causes, and develop practical solutions independently when appropriate, escalating safety-critical or unfamiliar issues to the supervisor.
• Develop proficiency in the safe operation and care of laboratory machinery and fabrication equipment through hands-on training.
• Complete fabrication, maintenance, and improvement projects, including assignments with limited or no existing documentation; plan work, make justified technical decisions, and document methods and outcomes.
• As training and demonstrated competency permit, help oversee laboratory activities, assist student users, and reinforce equipment-use and safety protocols.
• Complete other laboratory operations, maintenance, and custodial tasks as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in learning the technical operation of 3D printers and other fabrication equipment.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment issues methodically and communicate solutions clearly.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness and ability to assist individuals from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines with varying levels of experience and comfort using equipment.
• Strong commitment to maintaining a safety-first working environment.
• nterest in learning alongside others and developing an understanding of the capabilities and limitations of equipment and resources within the labs.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Resourcefulness, initiative, and willingness to identify and address needs within the space.
• Excellent attention to detail, accuracy, consistency, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated reliability and punctuality, including consistently arriving on time and being prepared to begin work at the scheduled start of each shift.

Required Qualifications

• Current University of Denver undergraduate or graduate student with eligibility for Federal Work-Study through the University of Denver Financial Aid Office.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1 Year experience working in a shop environment.

Working Environment

• The Innovation Labs Machine shop provide an active, hands-on environment for learning, experimentation, prototyping, and collaboration, with equipment and resources such as 3D printers, sewing and embroidery machines, a laser engraver, laser cutters, woodworking

Physical Activities

• Manual dexterity for handling tools, equipment, and materials, including small components during equipment repair.
• Standing and walking for periods of time while assisting users and maintaining the space.
• Lifting and carrying objects and materials of varying weights.
• Bending, kneeling, reaching, and working at varying heights.
• Assisting with the movement, setup, and breakdown of equipment, furniture, and materials for events and activities.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement & Notice of Background Check

The University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. For more information, please see the University of Denver's Non-Discrimination Statement.

All offers of employment are based upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check. These are required for all part-time, full-time and student employee hires.