Research and Lab Engineer

State of South Carolina; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

University of South Carolina is seeking a Research and Lab Engineer for the McNair Center within the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing. This role emphasizes hands-on technical work, equipment maintenance, data collection, and collaboration with faculty, staff, and students.

The position is primarily laboratory-based with occasional fieldwork. Responsibilities include setting up experiments, maintaining lab infrastructure, and ensuring safety compliance while supporting research

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in a laboratory or technical support role with a focus on advanced composites.
• Basic understanding of scientific principles and laboratory practices.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Set up and execute experiments and trials in the McNair Center laboratory.
• Perform equipment maintenance and calibration to ensure reliable data collection.
• Collect, analyze, and document data; prepare results for reports and publications.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and students to support research activities.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and laboratory procedures.
• Occasional fieldwork as needed for project support.

Skills

Advanced composites

Independent worker

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Tools

CAD software

Data acquisition systems

Sensors

Job description

Research and Lab Engineer

Department: CEC College of Engineering and Computing

Part/Full Time: Full Time

Advertised Salary Range: About UofSC

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Advertised Job Summary

The McNair Center Research and Lab Engineer supports research, development, and operational activities within the McNair Center, which is a part of the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing. This role involves hands‑on technical work, equipment maintenance, data collection, and collaboration with faculty, staff, and students. With little to no assistance the Research and Lab Engineer will be responsible for the setup and execution of experiments, maintain laboratory infrastructure, and ensure compliance with safety protocols. This position is primarily laboratory-based with occasional fieldwork.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Demonstrated experience in a laboratory or technical support role with a focus on advanced composites.
• Basic understanding of scientific principles and laboratory practices.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with data acquisition systems, sensors, and instrumentation.
• Familiarity with CAD software and technical drawings, metal fabrication, machining, welding, plumbing, and electrical.
• Prior experience in an academic or research setting with focus on advanced composites.

Job Close Date 10/22/2026

EEO Statement The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions.