Mechanical Engineer (Research Professional 2-Mechanical Eng) (# 376363)

Serve as subject matter expert

Maintain and manage the print queue across several printers

Perform regular maintenance on the various printers and laser cutters

Repair equipment

Maintain materials stock such as filament, resin, powders, and acrylic sheets

Support and educate investigators about 3D printing feasibility and best practices

Mechanical design (25%)

• Design/develop innovative solutions for research project needs/problems tailored to available manufacturing techniques
• Work with individual researchers to translate the needs of their projects to the magnet environment, including selecting the optimal fabrication techniques.
• Work with investigators, in cooperation with RF engineers, to design coil housings to fit the needs of their specific research projects
• Design magnet accessories (eye tracking mounts, screen holders, etc.) to support the needs of researchers
• Mechanical design for various research project needs including prototype testing, feasibility assessments, troubleshooting, and evaluating/modifying designs

Electrical and machine shop management (20%)

• Keeping research engineering and prototyping electronics and machine shops clean and organized
• Ordering tools and parts for the shops when stocks go low
• Maintaining shop equipment
• Training users on equipment (3D printers, laser cutters, soldering irons, etc.)
• Managing shop access

MRI peripheral equipment installation, integration, and maintenance (15%)

• System design, integration, testing, and modification to meet the specific needs of various research projects
• Documentation of systems for users
• Work with researchers to troubleshoot problems and new use cases as needed
• Maintenance and repair of existing equipment

Research engineering project management (10%)

• Tracking various projects being worked on by research engineering team
• Prioritize projects based on input from leadership
• Providing updates to various stakeholders as needed
• Supervising 1-3 student support engineers

Qualifications

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials.

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS degree in an engineering discipline (preferably in mechanical engineering) plus at least two years of experience or a combination of related engineering education and work experience to equal at least 6 years
• Experience with 3D CAD software
• Previous research engineering experience
• Ability to work in and around strong magnetic fields
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organization skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a fabrication environment (Maker Space, R&D Lab or Shop)
• Experience with MRI systems and support
• Project management experience

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $34.00 - $43.00/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.