Senior Engineering Technician

Purdue University; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; Full time

Job summary

Purdue University is seeking a Senior Engineering Technician to provide technical support in an engineering research setting. The role involves designing and fabricating equipment, ensuring safety compliance, and collaborating with students and faculty. The position offers a chance to make a meaningful impact at a prestigious institution known for innovation.

Qualifications

• 3-6 years of technician experience in a specialized discipline.
• Strong skills in installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate and construct mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal systems.
• Collaborate with students and faculty to resolve design and safety issues.
• Conduct safety checks and maintain research equipment.

Skills

Installation

Maintenance

Troubleshooting

Repair

Calibration

Communication

Collaboration

Project Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering

Associate's degree + 4-6 years experience

Tools

Welding

Forklift

Job description

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Base pay range

$22.50/hr - $31.00/hr

Direct message the job poster from Purdue University

The Ray W. Herrick Laboratories is looking to fill a new hands-on, technical services, Senior Engineering Technician position, which will provide guidance and support to students and faculty in an engineering research setting. The position involves designing and fabricating equipment and instrumentation; recommending and procuring components or materials needed for fabrication, testing, integration, or repairs; and reviewing schematics and drawings to modify equipment and instrumentation to required specifications. The role may advise on design dimensions, tolerances, and material compatibility. The Senior Engineering Technician will also ensure compliance with safety systems and practices to minimize risks in the research/testing environment and support collaborative research projects across campus with Herrick faculty and students.

The Lead Engineering Technician position includes all responsibilities of the Senior role, with additional duties such as leading daily operations, training, delegating, and reviewing the work of lower-level employees. This position requires advanced knowledge within a specific discipline.

This position will be filled as a Senior Engineering Technician or as a Lead Engineering Technician. The hiring manager will determine the job level based on the skills, experience, and qualifications of the selected candidate.

This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact at a prestigious institution known for innovation and research excellence. Join our community of lifelong learners and contribute your skills to this critical program. At Purdue, you'll find pride and unlimited potential as we pursue the next giant leap together. Apply now to help build a better world at Purdue University.

Candidates must apply at https://bit.ly/44aebtY to be fully considered.

What You'll Be Doing:

1. Fabrication/Construction: Use hand tools and various powered tools to fabricate and construct mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal systems.
2. Electrical: Perform electrical work including installing equipment, motors, compressors, and instrumentation. Work with AC voltages of 460, 240, 120, 24, and 12 on unpowered, locked-out circuits. Install low-voltage control and instrumentation wiring according to codes and standards. Ensure safe installation practices.
3. Instrumentation and Equipment: Install and maintain transducers, gauges, and other instrumentation/equipment.
4. Graduate Student and Staff/Faculty Interaction: Collaborate with students, faculty, and staff to resolve design and safety issues, providing technical input and developing solutions.
5. Laboratory Operations/Safety: Conduct safety checks, train students, troubleshoot, maintain, repair research equipment, and perform preventative maintenance. Maintain accurate records and assist with inventory and shipping/receiving, including operating forklifts as needed.
6. Welding/Brazing: Use gas, arc, TIG, and MIG welding to fabricate components. Be familiar with all processes and select appropriate methods and materials. Use flame cutting and soldering tools for fabrication and repair.

About Us:

The School of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University aims to change the world through education and innovation. Established in 1882, our department specializes in locomotives and now advances the world with cutting-edge technologies.

With about 2,000 undergraduates in West Lafayette, Indiana, our broad discipline covers diverse interests and expertise. We maintain high standards across all facets of education and research. Purdue ME ranks among the top ten schools nationally according to US News & World Report.

For more information, visit: https://engineering.purdue.edu/ME

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering, electrical or mechanical engineering technology, or related field
• 3-6 years of technician experience in a specialized discipline (e.g., machinist, electrician, HVAC, engine mechanic, pipefitting, sheet metal fabrication, or industrial controls/instrumentation)
• Equivalent education and experience considered (Associate's + 4-6 years)
• Strong skills in installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and calibration of complex mechanical, electrical, or scientific equipment
• Excellent communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
• Strong collaboration and project management skills
• Physical ability to lift 25-50 pounds frequently and up to 60 pounds occasionally

Nice to have:

• Experience in a research environment or campus setting
• Certification as a forklift operator
• EPA Section 608 certification
• CDL A license with Hazmat endorsement

Who We Are:

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, pride, and opportunities to learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Additional Information:

• This position will be filled as a Senior or Lead Engineering Technician. The level will be determined based on skills and experience.
• Purdue’s benefits overview: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/Benefits/
• Purdue does not sponsor employment authorization for this position.
• A background check is required.
• This was formerly an operational/technical position; internal lateral transfers retain benefits.
• Retirement: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan.

Candidates must apply at https://bit.ly/44aebtY.