How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the ZEUS Laboratory Managers and the ZEUS Facility Management Committee (FMC) the Laboratory Technician will maintain the day to-day operations of the ZEUS laser system and assist in the operation of the ZEUS target areas.

Who We Are

Michigan Engineers are world-class educators, researchers, students and staff who strive to build a people-first future. As part of a top national public research institution, Michigan Engineering's mission is to provide scientific and technological leadership to the people of the world, develop intellectually curious and socially conscious minds, create collaborative solutions to societal problems, and promote an inclusive and innovative community of service for the common good.

Our vision, mission and values are supported by a people-first engineering framework that guides our work. As Michigan Engineers, we strive to apply excellent engineering fundamentals, integrated expertise and equity-centered values to reimagine what engineering can be, close critical gaps, and elevate all people. Information about our vision, mission and values can be found at: http://strategicvision.engin.umich.edu/.

The University of Michigan has a storied legacy of commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Michigan Engineering models that commitment in our research, culture and collaborations. We seek to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of that commitment. Learn more about DEI at Michigan Engineering: https://www.engin.umich.edu/culture/diversity-equity-inclusion/

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

Generous time off
A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
Life insurance
Long-term disability coverage
Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
Maternity and Parental Leave

Responsibilities*

Regular and thorough cleaning of surfaces in cleanroom environment in Laser and Target areas of the ZEUS laser facility, as well as control rooms and associated utility & storage areas.
Maintain ISO 7 cleanroom standards of cleanliness.
Implement 5S process methodology for workplace standards.
Prioritize tasks with Management/Engineering Team.
Monitor air quality (particle count).
Purchasing, stocking, & deployment of cleanroom attire and PPE in cleanroom gowning areas.
Arrange laundering of cleanroom attire.
Basic custodial tasks in areas where regular custodians do not have access.
Organize & maintain optical and laser laboratories in clean and orderly condition.
Storage & Inventory of laboratory equipment, supplies, and consumables.
Maintain inventory of laser consumables (flashlamps, filters, etc.).
Storage and handling of optical components.
Cleaning optical components.
Preparation of documentation for the disposal of obsolete unused equipment.
Communicate safety problems and/or facility condition problems in a timely manner to supervisor.
Implement pest control measures.
Perform minor repairs and/or equipment modifications to ensure workspace safety standards.
Inspect, disassemble, repair, refurbish and test optical assemblies in a controlled laboratory environment.
Perform inspections, repairs, alignments, calibrations, and other testing of laboratory equipment.
Participate in installation, testing, and commissioning of laboratory equipment.
Document procedures related to above responsibilities.
Other duties as assigned by ZEUS managers.

Required Qualifications*

Must be able to perform basic physical tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
Ability to physically maneuver under and around equipment and obstacles in a physically challenging and moderately noisy environment.
Ability to climb on ladders, and work while standing on ladders.
Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time.
Knowledge of basic laser safety in a laser facility.
Maintain awareness of laser hazard status.
Basic knowledge of optics and optical components.
Basic mechanical skills (e.g., working with hand tools).
Previous clean room experience a plus.
Familiar with 5S process methodology.
Prior experience with analytical equipment.
Familiar and functional with Microsoft Excel or Google sheets.
Must be able to follow detailed instructions and to train others.
Must wear appropriate clean room attire and PPE.
Be able to handle and inspect small and delicate components.
Must be able to read and write in English.
2-year degree in related technical field plus 2 or more years of full-time experience laboratory work, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Problem-solving skills, including the demonstrated ability to synthesize ideas, anticipate next steps and prioritize important decisions.
Ability to communicate effectively with faculty, staff and students.
Good organizational and prioritizing skills.
Attention to detail in workplace, especially with optics.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, etc.).
Able to effectively use the Internet.
Proficient in the use of a wide variety of hand tools and testing equipment.
Able to use chemical solvents including but not limited to acetic acid, acetone, and isopropyl alcohol while performing daily duties.
Proficient in reading and comprehending technical information as presented in equipment manuals or in electronic media.
Ability to accurately document technical data .
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Must be able to work effectively with minimal supervision.
Resourceful; able to discern who to call for assistance based on the technical situation at hand.

Additional Information

Term limited position through September 30, 2026 with possible renewal based on funding extension.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.