Position Introduction:

The Sooner Advanced Manufacturing Laboratory (SAML) at the University of Oklahoma, operating under the Office of the Vice President for Research and Partnerships (OVPRP), is seeking a skilled and proactive Mechanical Technician. This role provides hands-on technical execution, student supervision, and fabrication support across advanced subtractive machining and metal additive manufacturing (AM) operations.

The technician will prepare solid models for CAM software, model custom fixtures and workholding solutions, provide Design for Manufacturing (DFM) guidance, and assemble, route, and test electrical control circuits, power wiring, hydraulics, and pneumatics. Additionally, the role supervises student technicians to ensure compliance with strict safety and quality protocols. This is a fully on-site position located at SAML's advanced manufacturing facility in Norman, Oklahoma.

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Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering or related field or equivalent military/work experience. 
• 36 months of machine tool operation including programming and workholding concepts. 24 months of electrical and/or mechanical experience including assembly, integration, and troubleshooting. 

Department Preferences:

• Demonstrated proficiency with 3D CAD solid modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks, Autodesk Fusion 360, Inventor) for part preparation and custom fixture/workholding design.
• Hands-on experience assembling, routing, and troubleshooting low-voltage control circuits, power wiring, hydraulic circuits, and pneumatic subsystems.
• Practical familiarity with Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles and material selection for precision machining and metal additive manufacturing.
• Experience supervising, mentoring, or assigning tasks to student technicians or apprentices in an active machine shop or laboratory setting.
• Strong commitment to laboratory safety, personal protective equipment (PPE) compliance, and quality control.