Human Resources

Summary

The Applied Chemical and Morphological Analysis Laboratory (ACMAL) at Michigan Technological University is a leading facility dedicated to advancing research and innovation through state-of-the-art analytical and characterization services. ACMAL provides access to major research instrumentation and outstanding training, supporting a diverse range of academic and corporate research initiatives. Serving faculty, students, and industry partners, ACMAL plays a crucial role in solving complex problems across various fields of study.

ACMAL is seeking a research technician or research engineer to join our team to operate, maintain, and provide training on advanced instrumentation, including Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEMs), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) systems. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field, with hands-on experience in advanced materials characterization techniques. This role requires a proactive approach to equipment management, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with researchers, students, and staff.

Michigan Tech attracts world-class staff and faculty who enrich the educational experience of smart, motivated, and adventurous students. Applicants who are committed to promoting a sense of belonging and contributing to an equitable and inclusive learning environment for all are strongly encouraged to apply https://www.mtu.edu/belonging/.

Responsibilities 

Operate and maintain Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEMs) for both staff-operated analysis and user training, ensuring the equipment is in optimal condition for research and educational purposes.

Oversee the sample preparation equipment, including the equipment maintenance, operation, training, and repair.

Assist in the operation of the X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) equipment, working closely with the current facility manager

Commit to learning about continuous improvement strategies and applying them to everyday work. Actively engage in University continuous improvement initiatives.

Apply safety-related knowledge, skills, and practices to everyday work.

Required Education, Certifications, Licensures

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.

Required Experience

Hands-on experience with SEM, XRD, XRF, or other similar systems.

Experience training users of the above instrumentation.

Desirable Education and/or Experience

Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.

Experience working in or managing a complex, multi-user manufacturing facility.

Experience with or the ability to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and repairs.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities

Excellent communication skills for training and supporting lab users.

Experience with or the ability to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and repairs.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.

Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of researchers, students, and staff.

Demonstrated organizational skills with strong attention to detail.

Ability to search and interpret scientific papers, protocols, standard operating procedures, safety standards, maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals for laboratory equipment.

Ability to operate instrument and modify its design for improved performance and troubleshoot associated issues.

Ability to maintain laboratory facilities and work areas with the flexibility to learn and adapt to new procedures incidental to laboratory activities.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities

Ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense security clearance which
requires U.S. citizenship

Demonstrated success in, or potential future contributions to, working
with persons from diverse backgrounds, creating a sense of belonging, and fostering a fair, objective, welcoming place to work for persons with a wide variety of personal characteristics and viewpoints.

Language, Mathematics and/or Reasoning Skills

Work Environment and/or Physical Demands

There are no unusual physical demands. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.

Required Training and Other Conditions of Employment

Every employee at Michigan Technological University will receive the following 4 required trainings; additional training may be required by the department.

Required University Training:

• Employee Safety Overview

• Anti-Harassment, Discrimination, Retaliation Training

• Annual Data Security Training 

• Annual Title IX Training

Background Check:

Offers of employment are contingent upon and not considered finalized until the required background check has been performed and the results received and assessed.

Other Conditions of Employment:

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of your appointment, and maintain eligibility without sponsorship throughout your appointment.

1

FLSA Status

Exempt

Appointment Term

12 months

Shift

Pay Rate/Salary

Title of Position Supervisor

Director of ACMAL

Posting Type

Dependent on Funding

Special Instructions to Applicants (if applicable)

Additional Information