Mechanical Engineer

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and hands-on Professional Research Assistant to support laboratory operations, experimental testing, and mechanical systems troubleshooting in a research environment using hydraulic systems, actuators, and shake table/centrifuge applications. This position is ideal for an experienced mechanical engineering professional who enjoys solving technical problems, working directly with equipment, and supporting applied research activities in academia. This is a laboratory-based, fully on-site role with no travel or overtime requirements. As an initial appointment, position offers 50% FTE (i.e., part-time), with the possibility of full-time conversion per funding and workload in the future.

The Professional Research Assistant will provide technical and operational support for experimental equipment and research infrastructure. The role involves diagnosing and repairing mechanical and hydraulic systems, supporting laboratory testing activities, configuring instrumentation and data acquisition systems, which facilitates undergraduate and graduate research and industry joint programs.

The position requires strong practical engineering skills, mechanical troubleshooting capability, and experience working with large-scale laboratory equipment and industrial machinery.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Technical Operations & Troubleshooting (about 60%)

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain laboratory mechanical systems and equipment including but are not limited to
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Servo-hydraulic actuators
  • Shake tables
  • Centrifuge-based experimental systems
  • Mechanical loading and testing equipment
• Identify root causes of equipment malfunctions and implement corrective actions
• Perform preventive maintenance and equipment calibration activities
• Coordinate with laboratory staff and researchers to ensure safe and reliable operation of testing systems

Research & Experimental Testing Support (Approximately 40%)

• Assist academic and industrial research with test setup and execution
• Configure sensors, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems
• Support specimen preparation, fixture setup, and test operation
• Maintain laboratory readiness and support safe testing procedures
• Contribute practical engineering insight during experimental planning and execution