Position Summary
The College of Engineering is seeking an Research/Instructional Equipment Technologist II to support teaching laboratories in the Technology Engineering (TechE) degree program and introductory design course. This position will primarily work with the college's Academic Programs division, providing hands-on technical expertise and operational support to ensure the success of instructional laboratories and student learning experiences.
TechE is an engineering discipline that combines hands-on experience with software and hardware integration to address modern engineering challenges across areas such as mechatronics, embedded systems, robotics, and cybersecurity. The introductory engineering design course, EGR 100, provides students with the opportunity to perform design, build, and test projects beginning with their first semester on campus.
This position plays a key role in ensuring students, faculty, and staff have the technical, instructional, and operational support necessary for high-quality academic experiences. The successful candidate will design, fabricate, troubleshoot, and maintain advanced instructional equipment—particularly in basic electronics, testing systems instrumentation, computer electronics, and industrial automation—and help prepare the TechE program for the expansion of new learning laboratories scheduled for completion in Fall 2027.
This is an off-date position with an initial appointment of three years from the employee’s start date. The position is renewable contingent upon continued funding, satisfactory performance, and mutual agreement.
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Design & Fabrication-30%
- Design, engineer, and fabricate specialized laboratory systems supporting courses in electronics, sensors, robotics, and industrial automation. Systems include data acquisition, instrumentation, and supporting hardware.
- Develop computer hardware and software interfaces for laboratory instrumentation.
- Fabricate cabling and custom mechatronic assemblies.
Testing, Troubleshooting & Maintenance-25%
- Maintain, calibrate, and repair instructional instrumentation such as oscilloscopes, function generators, automation modules, and robotics systems.
- Provide rapid response support for undergraduate courses in mechatronics, automation, electronics circuits, hardware security, and introductory engineering.
- Support setup and maintenance of current learning labs and studios, and assist with the transition to the new 20,000 ft² TechE Learning Labs.
Instructional & Technical Support-25%
- Provide hands-on instructional and technical support to faculty, staff, and students in laboratory environments.
- Assist in developing, documenting, and maintaining lab experiments.
- Train and supervise student employees in safe lab operations, prototyping, and troubleshooting.
Operational Duties-20%
- Procure and manage laboratory supplies, components, and instrumentation supporting courses in design (EGR 100), electronics (TNG 220, 320, 322), mechatronics (TNG 340, 440, 445), and embedded cybersecurity (TNG 355, 450, 455).
- Maintain records and ensure compliance with university safety, purchasing, and operational policies.
- Other Duties as Assigned
Minimum Requirements
Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Electrical Engineering Technology, Engineering, or a related field, with three to five years of progressively responsible experience in electrical and/or mechatronic systems, electronic laboratory equipment integration, and instrumentation applications; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Desired Qualifications
- Experience supporting facilities or laboratories in mechatronics, embedded systems, or automation.
- Proficiency in basic electronics, automation instrumentation selection and usage, computer hardware, computer networks, and hardware/software integration.
- Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, C++, or MATLAB.
- Prototyping and fabrication skills, including knowledge of 3D printing, and wood and metal shop equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to manage and facilitate projects across a multidisciplinary team.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with faculty, staff, and students in a multidisciplinary environment.
- Demonstrated commitment to lab safety, innovation, and continuous improvement in instructional support.
- Knowledge of hardware cybersecurity issues is a plus.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Application Materials
- Resume or CV
- Cover Letter
- Names and contact information of 3 professional references
Special Instructions
For more information about the Technology Engineering program, visit https://engineering.msu.edu/academics/majors-degrees/technology-engineering-bs
For more information about EGR 100, visit https://engineering.msu.edu/academics/undergraduate-studies/first-year-core-experience
Work Hours
Typical work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.to 5:00 p.m., with occasional evening or weekend events as required.
Description of End Date
This is an off-dated position funded for three years from date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.
Website
https://engineering.msu.edu/academics
Summary of Physical Demands
This hands-on position involves moderate physical activity, including lifting up to 50 pounds and performing detailed assembly or repair of instruments. Work may occasionally take place in laboratory, woodshop, or 3D printing spaces and around standard research materials. All activities are performed in well-equipped, safety-compliant environments that prioritize employee well-being and training.
Summary of Health Risks
This hands-on position involves moderate physical activity, including lifting up to 50 pounds and performing detailed assembly or repair of instruments. Work may occasionally take place in laboratory, woodshop, or 3D printing spaces and around standard research materials. All activities are performed in well-equipped, safety-compliant environments that prioritize employee well-being and training.
Bidding eligibility ends November 25, 2025, 11:55 PM
