Temporary Simulator Lab Technician

Southeast New Mexico College; Carlsbad (NM); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Southeast New Mexico College in Carlsbad, NM seeks a Simulator Lab Technician to provide day‑to‑day technical support for the college’s Simulation Lab. You will set up equipment, assist during training sessions, and ensure safe, smooth operation of heavy equipment simulators, VR systems, and AV gear.

You will work closely with faculty and students, maintain logs and inventory, and help with basic guides and user support, contributing to workforce readiness and program success.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with 2 years in simulation support, technical support, workforce training, or related lab operations.
• Equivalency: any equivalent combination may be considered by HR.
• FLSA Non-Exempt; Grade: Temporary.

Responsibilities

• Prepare equipment and provide on-site technical assistance during simulations.
• Set up, operate, and breakdown simulations for classes and training.
• Provide basic troubleshooting during live sessions; escalate complex issues as needed.
• Operate and maintain simulation technologies including heavy equipment simulators, VR systems, and audiovisual equipment.
• Maintain lab organization, equipment logs, inventory, and maintenance documentation.
• Assist with scheduling coordination and vendor visits as directed.

Skills

Computer basics

Safety procedures

Instructional tech

Technical instructions

Customer service

Time management

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

VR systems

Heavy equipment simulators

AV equipment

Job description

Required: High School Diploma or GED with two (2) years of experience in simulation support, technical support, workforce training, or related lab operations.

Equivalency: Any equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience may be considered as approved by the Human Resources Department.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Grade: Temporary

Salary: $18.81 - $21.16 Per Hour DOE

Background:

Located in Carlsbad, New Mexico, Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) is a newly independent public community college accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. A proud Hispanic Serving Institution, it awards certificates and associate degrees that serve the needs of its region and prepare students to transfer to programs at other colleges or universities. SENMC offers Early College and Dual Credit programs in collaboration with local high schools.

Southeast New Mexico College enjoys the strong support of its community, and has been awarded several grants, which include $11.7 million from the U.S. Department of Energy and several multimillion-dollar grants from the U.S. Department of Education for student support.

The college’s diverse employee pool includes 38 full-time faculty, 48 adjunct faculty, and 112 staff members. SENMC offers a generous benefits package which includes medical, dental, retirement, and college tuition reimbursement. More information on SENMC can be obtained from its website at https://senmc.edu.

Purpose and Scope:

Under the supervision of the Vice President of Workforce and Community Engagement, the Simulator Lab Technician provides technical and operational support for the Southeast New Mexico College Simulation Lab, a high-tech training facility supporting workforce readiness and heavy equipment programs.

This position focuses on day-to-day lab operations, equipment setup and maintenance, and user support to ensure simulation activities run smoothly and safely.

Working closely with faculty, students, and lab leadership, the Simulator Lab Technician supports simulation-based instruction by preparing equipment, assisting during training sessions, and maintaining lab organization and functionality. This role is primarily technical and operational in nature, with limited responsibility for planning or program design.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support faculty and instructors during simulation-based training sessions by preparing equipment and providing on‑site technical assistance.
• Assist with simulation setup, operation, and breakdown for scheduled classes and training activities.
• Provide basic troubleshooting and technical support during live simulation sessions; escape complex issues as needed.
• Operate and maintain simulation technologies, including heavy equipment simulators, task trainers, VR systems, and audiovisual equipment.
• Prepare simulation environments and scenarios using equipment, props, and other materials to support instructional goals.
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness of the simulation lab and related storage areas.
• Assist with scheduling coordination by ensuring lab spaces and equipment are prepared according to the established schedule.
• Conduct routine equipment checks and report maintenance or performance concerns to lab leadership.
• Maintain accurate equipment logs, inventory records, and basic maintenance documentation.
• Follow established safety, operational, and compliance standards at all times.
• Maintain up‑to‑date equipment logs, inventory reports, and maintenance documentation.
• Assist with updates to user guides, reference materials, and basic instructional supports for simulation tools.
• Support vendor visits, equipment servicing, and training sessions as directed.
• Collect basic data related to simulator usage and operational needs as requested.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the lab operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proficient in basic computer operations, software troubleshooting, and equipment setup.
• Working knowledge of safety procedures and lab organization practices.
• Familiarity with simulation‑based training environments or instructional technology is preferred.
• Ability to follow technical instructions, procedures, and documentation accurately.
• Strong customer‑service orientation when supporting students, faculty, and staff.
• Effective time‑management skills and ability to manage multiple tasks in a structured environment.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills for documenting issues and providing user support.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross‑functional teams.
• Willingness and ability to learn new technologies, systems, and simulation tools as they evolve.

Work Environment and Physical Demand:

• Reach and grasp objects
• Stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, or crawl
• Use of video display terminal
• Use of manual dexterity and fine motor skills
• Communicate information orally and in writing
• Receive and understand information through oral and written communication
• Proofread and check documents for accuracy
• Work a fluctuating work schedule

Performing the essential functions of this position requires the use of a computer throughout most of the workday, the ability to navigate a typical office environment, significant amounts of interpersonal interaction including oral and written communication, and the ability to keep track of multiple tasks, projects, deadlines, information sources and business processes. This job description is intended to be generic in nature and describe the essential functions of the job. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The essential duties, functions and responsibilities, and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.

Affirmative Action Statement:

SENMC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.