Part-Time Engineering Technologist

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 27,552 - 41,328; Part time

Job summary

A university research facility in United States is seeking a motivated candidate for the part-time role of Engineering Technologist. This position will support R&D efforts in electronic materials processing, characterization, and semiconductor device fabrication. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's Degree in engineering, science, or technology, and familiarity with materials characterization methods. Experience with CAD software and good communication skills are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field is required. No minimum work experience.
• Experience with materials characterization tools is preferred.
• Basic knowledge of semiconductor materials and devices is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples and perform chemical-mechanical polishing.
• Conduct materials characterization techniques.
• Perform electrical characterization and device testing.
• Analyze data and report results.
• Research new sample preparation methods.
• Configure and operate reactors and systems.

Skills

Sample preparation methods

Materials characterization methods

Laboratory safety practices

Microsoft Office

Good communication skills

Experience in fast-paced team

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in engineering, science, or technology

Tools

CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD)

Job description

We are seeking a motivated candidate to fill the role of a Part‑Time Engineering Technologist to join the Electronic Materials and Devices Department (EMDD) of the Penn State Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This position will directly support R&D efforts in electronic materials processing, characterization/testing, semiconductor device fabrication, sample preparation, polishing, and materials growth/synthesis.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples and perform chemical‑mechanical polishing (CMP).
• Conduct materials characterization (microscopy, spectroscopy, X‑ray diffraction).
• Perform electrical characterization and device testing.
• Analyze data and report results.
• Research new sample preparation and characterization methods.
• Configure and operateaces/reactors and systems.
• Run furnaces/reactors and monitor materials growth/synthesis processes.

Qualifications

Minimum requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in engineering, science, or technology and no minimum work experience.

Required Skills / Experience

• Background in sample preparation methods.
• Knowledge of materials characterization methods.
• Understanding of laboratory safety practices (PPE, chemical handling, waste disposal).
• Ability to maintain organized and detailed notes.
• Experience using Microsoft Office, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Good communication skills.
• Willingness to work in a fast‑paced team environmentli>

Preferred Skills / Experience

• Hands‑on experience with materials characterization tools.
• Basic knowledge of vacuum systems and hardware.
• Basic knowledge of semiconductor materials and devices.
• Experience using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD).

Security and Background

Position is subject to a government security investigation and requires U.S. citizenship. Employment will require a successful pre‑employment drug screen.

Equal Opportunity Statement

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal‑opportunity, affirmative action employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

For additional information about ARL, visit www.arl.psu.edu.