Technical Specialist

Full Time Technical Specialist and Lab Technician

Summary - Provides direct support for academic and research laboratories in the School of Science and Engineering, primarily in the Departments of Computer Science and Engineering. Responsible for design, fabrication, repair, and safe functioning of laboratory equipment. Further, provides guidance regarding safe equipment operation and implementation of laboratory procedures, including the fabrication lab and maker space. Also collaborates with the safety officer in the School in providing training and ensuring compliance with internal and established (government) safety standards.

Essential duties, tasks and responsibilities: (The following duties are not to be considered a complete list of duties and responsibilities assigned to this position.)

Technical (Laboratory related)

• Communicate with faculty and students to assess their laboratory1 needs

• Serve as a consultant to students and faculty on academic and research and design projects

• Prioritize, plan and execute assigned projects with minimal supervision

• Set up laboratory activities in collaboration with faculty member(s)

• Design and build custom apparatus, develop and communicate a standard procedure for operation, and provide appropriate training as necessary

• Install, configure, and interface equipment and/or work with external vendors/suppliers

• Perform calibrations of instrumentation (or again work with external sources)

• Repair, rebuild and or restore electronic and mechanical equipment (or again work with external sources)

• Demonstrate effective and safe use of laboratory equipment and instrumentation

• Develop and maintain documentation for equipment, including safety protocols

• Maintain Engineering and Computer Science laboratory spaces used in direct support of academic programs

• Order equipment, supplies, and services in support of academic programs

• Make recommendations for laboratory equipment and instrumentation, and related operational and capital expenses

• Develop, maintain, and audit Engineering and Computer Science inventory system for laboratory supplies and consumables

• Monitor supplies budget(s) and inform annual operating budget process

• Supervise student workers

• Attend training seminars, classes, and conferences that support the duties of the position

• Support academic outreach efforts

Safety

• Work in conjunction with faculty, staff, and students to achieve and maintain safety compliance

• Coordinate the laboratory safety efforts.

• Disseminate information about and encourage compliance with safety standards.

• In consultation with the Safety Officer, provides or assists in arrangement of training for students, faculty, and staff pertaining to safety protocols and regulations for laboratory equipment

Qualifications:

Two or four- year degree in engineering, computing, or technology related field, with two years of manufacturing experience or equivalent training. Knowledge of engineering and computing equipment and practices. Capable of flexibility regarding work assignments. Ability to work independently. Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, students, faculty, and staff as well as outside agencies. Desired experience in one, preferably more, of the following: Metal machining and wood working; Welding; Soldering; Robotics and platforms: Raspberry Pi, Arduino Electronics; and Additive Manufacturing.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

This position involves work in laboratory, workshop, and office environments. It requires regular physical activity, including lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and handling tools and equipment. The role may involve exposure to noise, dust, chemicals, and machinery, with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed. Some evening hours may be required to support academic activities or equipment maintenance.

How to Apply: Review of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references in 1 PDF or Word Document via the To Apply link on BW’s Employment & Careers’ webpage: http://www.bw.edu/employment.

Baldwin Wallace University is an EEO employer and educator. At BW, we support and encourage diversity in a variety of forms. We value and appreciate inclusive excellence in the classroom, within extracurricular activities, and as we engage our community partners. Learn more at Diversity Affairs - https://www.bw.edu/about/diversity/