Research Technician I (Temporary) (Part-Time)

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA; Tucson (AZ); Hybrid; USD 23,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Arizona—Tucson Campus is seeking a part-time Research Technician I (Temporary) to perform laboratory-based activities on thin films of novel materials under direct supervision. Duties include sample preparation, characterization support, and data documentation, with emphasis on safety and compliance.

This temporary position requires a high school diploma, 20 hours per week, and an end date of 3/5/2027.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare thin-film samples and assist with annealing, ion irradiation, and characterization.
• Support SEM, TEM, and other material characterization workflows.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and assist with calibrations.
• Record and organize data, ensuring accurate documentation of experiments and results.
• Follow all safety procedures and complete required trainings.

Education

High School Diploma

Job description

Research Technician I (Temporary) (Part-Time)

Research Technician I (Temporary) (Part-Time)

Posting Number: req27065

Department: Research Innovation & Impact

Department Website Link: https://research.arizona.edu/strategic-initiative/fusion-energy

Location: Tucson Campus

Address: Tucson, AZ USA

Position Highlights: The Office of Research & Partnerships is accepting applications for a temporary Research Technician I. This position performs laboratory-based experimental and technical activities related to thin films of novel materials, including medium- and high-entropy alloys for fusion energy applications. The successful candidate will support laboratory activities and does not independently design or conduct research. The employee must complete all required University of Arizona and laboratory-specific safety training before beginning laboratory work. This may include chemical safety, hazardous materials handling, laser safety, and equipment-specific training, as applicable. All duties will be performed under Horst Hahn’s direct supervision and in accordance with established laboratory procedures and safety protocols. The expected end date for this position is March 5, 2027. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, life insurance and disability programs; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at theUniversity of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Duties & Responsibilities

Laboratory Sample Preparation and Processing

• Prepare thin‑film samples of novel materials, including medium- and high-entropy alloys, for annealing, ion irradiation, and characterization.
• Perform all activities under direct supervision using established procedures and protocols.

Experimental and Materials Characterization Support

• Assist with laboratory experiments and the characterization of as-prepared, annealed, and ion‑irradiated thin films using secondary ion mass spectrometry and transmission electron microscopy.
• Support experiments and research activities under the direction of faculty or senior researchers.

Laboratory Equipment Operation and Maintenance

• Operate laboratory equipment according to established procedures, assist with routine setup and calibration, monitor equipment performance, and complete basic maintenance under supervision.

Data Documentation and Technical Analysis

• Record experimental activities and results, organize technical data, assist with established data‑analysis procedures, and maintain accurate laboratory records to support the evaluation of materials for potential fusion energy applications.

Laboratory Safety and Operational Compliance

• Follow all required laboratory safety procedures, properly handle materials and samples, maintain an organized work environment, and complete required safety documentation and training.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.

Preferred Qualifications

FLSA: Non‑Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Part Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 20

Job FTE: 0.5

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Limited Benefits

Rate of Pay: $16.50 - $18.75

Compensation Type: hourly rate

Grade: 2

Compensation Guidance: The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity. The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

Career Stream and Level: OC1

Job Family: Research & Lab

Job Function: Research

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Expected End Date: 3/5/2027

Contact Information for Candidates: Yvette Corral | [e-mail]

Open Date: 9/17/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply: Resume and Cover Letter

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures. Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at [e-mail].