Engineering Design Technician

Details

Posted: 06-Apr-24

Location: Houston, TX, United States,

Type: Full-time

Salary: Open

Internal Number: 3476

Special Instructions to Applicants: Please attach a cover letter and a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application.

About George R. Brown School of Engineering

The George R. Brown School of Engineering ranks among the top 20 of undergraduate engineering programs (US News & World Report) and is strongly committed to nurturing the aspirations of faculty, staff and students in an inclusive environment.

We seek greater representation of women, minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans in disciplines in which they have historically been underrepresented; to attract international students from a wider range of countries and backgrounds; to accelerate progress in building a faculty and staff who are diverse in background and thought, and we support an inclusive environment that fosters interaction and understanding within our diverse community.

Position Summary:

Rice University's George R. Brown School of Engineering is a top-ranked program that empowers the next generation of leaders with strong technical and communication skills, creative problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.

The Oshman Engineering Design Kitchen is seeking a skilled and enthusiastic individual to join our engineering academic maker space team as a technician specializing in machine shop operations.

Ideal Candidate Statement:

The ideal candidate will be passionate about fostering creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning experiences within our academic community. This role offers the opportunity to work with a diverse range of students, faculty, and staff, providing technical support and guidance in utilizing machinery and tools for prototyping and fabrication of projects.

Proposed Hiring Range: $20.43-$25.43 per hour

Minimum Requirements:

• Associate's degree or equivalent experience in engineering, manufacturing, or a related field
• 3+ years of related experience
  • In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted.

Skills:

• Ability to use word processing and spreadsheet software, Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to maintain quality safety standards
• Strong organizational skills
• Proficiency with relevant engineering lab software, machinery and equipment
• Skilled in verbal, written and interpersonal communication
• Ability to teach, guide and work with students, faculty and staff
• Ability to work independently and make decisions with some supervision

Preferences:

• Bachelor's degree preferred
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining various prototyping equipment such as 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, etc.
• Strong technical aptitude and problem-solving skills to address equipment malfunctions and process challenges
• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with diverse users, including students, faculty, and researchers
• Prior experience in developing training materials, conducting workshops, or providing technical instruction is a plus
• Familiarity with safety protocols and procedures related to prototyping and equipment operation
• Detail-oriented mindset with a commitment to producing high-quality prototypes
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented and collaborative environment

Essential Functions:

Prototyping Support:

• Collaborate with students, staff, and faculty to understand project requirements and provide technical guidance for effective prototyping
• Operate and maintain a wide range of prototyping equipment, including 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, and more
• Assist in the fabrication of prototypes, ensuring accuracy, quality, and adherence to project specifications
• Help users troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to prototyping equipment and processes

Equipment Maintenance:

• Conduct regular maintenance checks on machinery and tools to ensure optimal performance and safety
• Troubleshoot and repair equipment as needed, coordinating with external vendors for complex repairs when necessary
• Coordinate with vendors and service providers for complex equipment repairs and preventive maintenance
• Maintain an accurate inventory of machine shop supplies, tools, and materials
• Monitor usage patterns and reorder supplies to support ongoing projects and activities

Training Program Development:

• Collaborate with Engineering Design Tech II and Engineering Design Supervisor to develop comprehensive training programs for students on proper equipment operation, safety protocols, and best practices
• Design training materials, including user manuals, tutorials, and hands-on workshops, to enhance user proficiency and foster a safe and effective prototyping culture

User Support and Guidance:

• Provide guidance and technical support to users of the prototyping facility, addressing questions, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with safety guidelines
• Assist users in selecting appropriate prototyping methods and materials for their projects, considering design requirements and feasibility

Facility Upkeep:

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment within the prototyping facility
• Enforce safety regulations and guidelines within the machine shop environment, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), machine guarding, and emergency procedures
• Conduct periodic safety inspections and implement corrective actions as required
• Implement proper waste disposal procedures for materials used in the prototyping process
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.