Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Uses a variety of technical skills in designing, building, and repairing mechanical, electronic, electrical and related devices and equipment used for research projects. Functions as a specialist in translating theoretical principles into feasible designs and instructing others in their use.

Qualifications

Associate degree in Mechanics, Electronics, or related area, or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); and four years experience related to the specialty area, i.e.: electronic instrumentation repair, network communications, mechanical design, repair and construction, designing and building chamber systems for research, microscope design and modification, etc. required. Demonstrated communication and human relations skills are critical. Experience with plastics, machine shop and welding skills may be preferred.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Consults with Principal Investigators and other research personnel in order to identify the type of device or equipment needed to accomplish research goals and objectives. Makes recommendations on feasibility of projects researchers have in mind.
2. Designs and builds research devices, instruments and equipment (mechanical, electronic, electrical, cabinetry, etc.). Draws plans, measurements and specifications; constructs and tests devices/equipment/instruments for effectiveness.
3. Prepares cost estimates to build required items, gives technical advice and selects most appropriate components and parts.
4. Organizes and carries out preventive maintenance programs and performs troubleshooting and repair of electrical, electronic and mechanical devices. Orders supplies and ensures shop is maintained according to health and safety codes.
5. Applies technical knowledge to solve unusually complex problems and provides input to PI's and engineers regarding weaknesses and capabilities of instruments, equipment and devices.
6. Documents work with schematics, procedural notes and other related drawings.
7. Instructs research workers in construction, purchasing and minor repair practices.
8. Supports computer networking by configuring systems and training users. Integrates, upgrades and configures hardware and available software to meet personal computer needs for research groups, administration and support staff.
9. Trains other shop staff in construction, purchasing and minor repair practices.
10. Oversees monthly accounting and billing for services and parts.
11. Maintains information and resources for reference by personnel.
12. Instructs researchers in use of test equipment and construction techniques.
13. Gives technical advice to students in the labs or shops so they may complete class or research projects.
14. Assists research staff with construction projects by giving guidance and direction.
15. Ensures users follow safety procedures when using equipment and machinery. Oversees laboratory safety issues including regulatory compliance, hazardous waste disposal and training. Oversees equipment maintenance and proper usage.
16. May assist in writing technical reports for researchers concerning the new design and innovations resulting from experiments.

Problem Solving

This position is responsible for development of equipment/devices with little supervision beyond performance expectations and requests made by researchers. He/she must budget time to ensure progress and completion of multiple projects concurrently. The incumbent may supervise one or several part-time helpers by making hire/salary recommendations, training and evaluating performance.

Some challenges the incumbent may encounter include having to perform research and select accessory components, learn new skills to complete construction, test device performance and make needed modifications, as the creative process is a complex one. Incumbents are often given only performance expectations and a few preselected components and requested to design a suitable assembly. Also, incumbents must determine how to operate specific equipment and how best to use it in the current experimental endeavor. Another challenge this position poses is that the incumbent must work with varied members of the department as their role is to meet with researchers/staff members, discuss their needs, suggest solutions to solve problems or meet needs, draw up plans, and construct what is needed. This position must be able to prioritize various jobs and complete them quickly and efficiently. Customer service is a critical component.

This position may supervise 1 to 4 part-time workers. He/she may provide service to a large and diverse department community comprising up to 90 staff members and 70 students utilizing many labs and facilities.

Comments

The incumbent may be required to occasionally work in hazardous locations.