Student Shop Operations Assistant

The Ohio State University; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 56,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Job summary

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Ohio State University seeks a motivated, hands-on Student Shop Operations Assistant to join our Instructional Machine Shop. This entry‑level role provides exposure to manual and CNC machining, research fabrication, and student instruction under mentorship from an experienced laboratory manager.

We value a strong work ethic, dependability, and a willingness to learn.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Design, Technology Management or similar; or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Minimum 2 years hands-on equipment and safety experience is preferred but not required.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain instructional machine shop equipment.
• Learn and apply manual and CNC machining techniques.
• Assist in project planning and student instruction under supervision.

Skills

Hands-on

mechanically inclined

Self-motivated

Dependable

Willing to learn

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/related field

Tools

CNC Machining

Manual Machining

Lab Safety

Job description

Job Title

Student Shop Operations Assistant

Department

Engineering | Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Job Summary

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering is seeking a motivated, hands‑on individual to join our Instructional Machine Shop. This entry‑level position offers an exceptional opportunity to learn advanced machining, manufacturing, laboratory operations, and leadership through direct mentorship in a dynamic engineering environment. The successful candidate will work closely with an experienced laboratory manager while developing skills in manual and CNC machining, research fabrication, student instruction, project planning, and all aspects of maintaining a safe, organized, and highly efficient instructional machine shop. We are looking for someone who enjoys working with their hands, is mechanically inclined, self‑motivated, dependable, and eager to learn. A strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to accept new challenges are essential. Previous machining experience is beneficial but not required. This position is intended for an individual who is eager to develop into a future technical and operational leader within the laboratory. This position is ideal for an individual seeking more than just a job—someone looking to build a long‑term career through hands‑on experience, mentorship, and significant opportunities for professional growth. Resume required.

Salary

The target hiring range for this job profile is $55,700/$64,200. The actual salary paid to an individual will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limited to, education, years of experience, internal equity, etc.

Additional Information

Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Design, Technology Management or a similar degree; or equivalent experience in hands‑on equipment and safety compliance, technical prototyping skills with education or project management. Minimum Experience. 2 years of relevant experience required in hands‑on equipment and safety compliance, technical prototyping skills with education or project management. Ability to work independently after receiving directions, possession of excellent oral and written communication skills.

Location

Scott Laboratory (0148)

Position Type

Regular

Scheduled Hours

40

Shift

First Shift

Background Check

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

Benefits

Ohio State benefits give you options to take care of what matters most to you — and opportunities to make adjustments as your life and needs change, including:

• Medical, dental and vision coverage, with Ohio State paying a significant portion of the cost.
• Paid time off, including sick and vacation time and 11 holidays.
• State retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both with generous employer contributions.

Equal Opportunity

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.

Company Culture

As Buckeyes, we accomplish more together. No matter your role, you’ll be part of creating what people need now: pathways to education, research and health care. Working at Ohio State means you’re part of a team with a strong sense of community and an unwavering commitment to excellence — and, of course, incomparable Buckeye spirit. We bring out the best in people, help each other succeed and learn together. By joining Ohio State, you become part of a top‑20 public university with one of America's leading academic health centers.