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.
The Department of Physics at the University of Michigan seeks a motivated Laboratory/Classroom Services Technician to elevate our instructional support in introductory physics courses. You will be instrumental in delivering engaging demonstrations of physics concepts and providing comprehensive support to faculty. We are seeking someone passionate about science education with strong hands-on skills. This individual should excel in project assembly and maintenance, ensuring our dynamic environment operates smoothly. Key traits include excellent memory, organization, attention to detail, and comfort with presenting scientific topics to diverse audiences. Superior communication and customer service skills are essential.
Prepare, troubleshoot, transport, and operate lecture demonstrations for introductory physics classes.
Set up and dismantle laboratory equipment for beginner-level laboratory courses.
Deliver technical training on the safe use of demonstration equipment.
Manage overlapping tasks in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment.
Maintain and update current demonstrations, documentation, and media catalogs.
Contribute to department outreach initiatives like Saturday Morning Physics lectures.
Monitor and maintain lecture facilities, addressing audio/visual issues.
Ensure safe handling of hazardous equipment, adhering to safety guidelines.
Clean, store, and monitor laboratory equipment and supplies.
Develop new demonstrations based on faculty needs or independently, under the guidance of the Laboratory Manager.
Engage in professional development to enhance laboratory operations.
Perform additional related tasks as required.
Bachelor's degree in physics or a related field.
Experience working with and repairing scientific laboratory equipment using basic tools.
Proficient in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and general computer skills.
Physical ability to frequently bend, reach, lift, push, pull up to 50 pounds, stand for varied periods, and walk moderate distances, including using stairs.
Ability to perform tasks while sitting and carrying out computer tasks.
Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively.
Excellent communication and organizational skills.
Experience in machine shop operations and tools, including 3D modeling.
Proficiency in repairing and maintaining scientific apparatus.
Technical knowledge of electronics, computer interfacing (LabView, Logger Pro), and design software (Fusion 360).
Strong presentation skills for diverse audiences.
Experience with audio/visual production and editing (Adobe Premiere Pro/Photoshop).
Solid understanding of first-year physics topics
Familiarity with teaching pedagogy in physics education.
Position requires on-site work; remote work is not an option. Some Saturday morning work is required during the Fall and Winter semesters, with prior scheduling.
As one of the world's great liberal arts colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.
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.
The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.
A great university is made so by its faculty and staff, and Michigan is recognized as one of the best universities to work for in the country. The Michigan culture is known for engaging faculty and staff in all facets of the university to create a workplace that is vibrant and stimulating.For two consecutive years, the Chronicle of Higher Education has placed U-M in its "Great Colleges to Work For" survey. In particular, the university earns high marks for strong relations between faculty and administrators, a collaborative system of governance, strong pay and benefits, and a healthy work/life balance.