Scientific Instrument Maker III

Texas A&M University; College Station (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid holidays

Sick leave & vacation

Job summary

Texas A&M University in College Station seeks an experienced Scientific Instrument Maker III to design, build, modify, and maintain precision scientific instruments. You will lead in the construction and upkeep of research equipment, collaborating with scientists and educators across projects.

The role requires extensive machine shop experience, proficiency in SolidWorks and Mastercam, and a track record of training others in instrument construction and repair.

Qualifications

• Eight years of related experience in design, construction, modification, and repair of precision instruments.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and Mastercam.
• Ability to train and supervise others in instrument construction and repair.

Responsibilities

• Assess user requirements and goals to determine specifications for new or modified instruments.
• Design blueprints, schematics, and prototypes using CAD tools to meet needs.
• Collaborate with scientists and researchers to align designs with project objectives.

Skills

SolidWorks

Mastercam

Machine shop experience

Training supervision

Education

Bachelor’s degree in science/engineering

High school diploma

Tools

Oscilloscope

Digital voltmeters

Vacuum gauges

Job description

Job Title: Scientific Instrument Maker III Agency Texas A&M University Department Chemistry Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location College Station, Texas Job Type Staff

Job Description

Here’s a Glimpse of the Job Are you an experienced scientific instrument maker with a passion for precision and innovation? The department of Chemistry is looking for a skilled professional to join our team in a role focused on the design, construction, modification, and maintenance of scientific instruments and research apparatus. In this hands‑on position, you’ll work closely with researchers and educators to bring complex ideas to life—evaluating needs, crafting custom solutions, and ensuring equipment performs at its best. The ideal candidate will bring extensive machine shop experience, strong proficiency in SolidWorks and Mastercam, and a proven ability to train and supervise others in the construction and repair of scientific equipment. If you’re ready to apply your technical expertise in a collaborative, research-driven environment, we encourage you to apply!

Opportunities to Contribute

• Assess user requirements and research goals to determine specifications for new or modified scientific instruments and apparatus.
• Design and develop blueprints, schematics, and prototypes using CAD tools to meet functional and performance needs.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and researchers to ensure instrument designs align with project objectives.
• Construct, assemble, and test instruments using appropriate materials, tools, and techniques to ensure quality and reliability.
• Ensure all instruments comply with safety standards and meet required performance criteria.
• Modify and upgrade existing instruments to improve performance or meet evolving research needs.
• Diagnose, repair, and calibrate scientific instruments to ensure accurate and reliable operation.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections to prevent malfunctions and extend equipment lifespan.
• Maintain detailed records of all repairs, modifications, calibrations, and maintenance activities.
• Instruct and train technicians, and research staff in the construction, repair, and maintenance of scientific instruments.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Eight years of related experience in the design, construction, modification, and repair of precision instruments and equipment.
• A well-qualified candidate will also possess: Knowledge in SolidWorks and Mastercam.
• Demonstrated skills and abilities of top instrument makers in the nation, which includes training in the programming and operation of multiple types of computerized machines and related equipment required in instrument construction.
• Extensive machine shop experience including use of equipment and tools.
• Bachelor’s degree in appropriate science or engineering field of study.
• Ability to work from verbal instructions and rudimentary sketches and diagrams.
• Working knowledge of diagnostic equipment such as oscilloscope, digital voltmeters, vacuum gauges, voltage and current calibrators, or other equipment or tools used in assigned duties.

Salary: Compensation will be commensurate based on the selected hire’s education and experience.

Special Note: This position is funded from grant and/or contract funding, which is renewed through provisions of the grantor of the contract. Therefore, this position is contingent upon continuation of funding from these grants and/or contracts, as well as satisfactory job performance.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long‑term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leaveand at leasteight hours of paid vacationeach month
• Automatic enrollment in theTeacher Retirement System of Texas
• Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time
• Professional Development: All employees have access to freeLinkedIn Learningtraining, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more
• Educational release time and tuition assistancefor completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee
• Living Well, a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees

Why Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service. Texas A&M University’s Department of Chemistry is a cadre of faculty, staff, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, academic advisors, scientific and technical staff, who have a shared purpose of translating our passion for chemistry to young scholars at all levels in many scientific fields. To learn more, please visit http://www.chem.tamu.edu/.

All positions are security-sensitive.

Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.