APPLIED Lab Technician

Virginia Tech • Blacksburg, VA

7d • $40,000 - $60,000

About The Position

The APPLIED Lab is a combined woodworking, metal working, 3D printing, and welding shop for capstone students in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Virginia Tech. The APPLIED Lab Technician supports the day-to-day operation of the APPLIED Laboratory by supporting student training, safety oversight, machinery maintenance, and ensuring the lab operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with university Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards. Candidates should be organized and exhibit good communication skills.

Requirements

• Hand-on experience with at least two of the following types of manufacturing equipment—woodworking machines, mills, lathes, CNC machines, laser cutters, welders, or 3D printers—through coursework, training, projects, or work experience, with the ability to safely operate equipment under supervision.
• Experience supporting, assisting, or leading peers, students, or team members in a structured environment (e.g., classroom, lab, club, or workplace), with the ability to follow and help enforce established procedures.
• Knowledge of shop safety practices and hazardous materials, demonstrated through coursework, safety training, or orientation, with the ability to follow written safety guidelines and use required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience operating at least three types of manufacturing equipment (e.g., woodworking machines, mills, lathes, CNC machines, laser cutters, welders, or 3D printers), including setup, operation, and basic troubleshooting, demonstrated through work, academic projects, or certifications.
• Experience working or volunteering in a university makerspace, machine shop, or fabrication lab, with responsibility for equipment use, user support, or facility operations.
• Working knowledge of CNC programming and manufacturing planning, demonstrated by creating and running at least two CNC programs (e.g., G-code) and selecting appropriate materials, tooling, and machining processes for projects.
• Experience performing routine equipment maintenance and/or assisting with installation of shop equipment, including tasks such as calibration, part replacement, or setup, documented through prior roles, training, or projects.
• Experience managing an environmental health and safety (EHS) compliance program.

Responsibilities

• supporting student training
• safety oversight
• machinery maintenance
• ensuring the lab operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with university Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees