Graduate Assistant for the CCB Product Innovation Lab

Saginaw Valley State University • Lexington, MA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

At Saginaw Valley State University, the Scott L. Carmona College of Business (CCB) supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning through collaborative and hands-on educational opportunities. The Graduate Assistant for the Product Innovation Lab provides operational, technical, and programmatic support for the lab while assisting students, faculty, staff, and community members with projects, workshops, and innovation-focused activities. This position provides hands-on experience in innovation support, technology instruction, event coordination, and higher education operations within a collaborative learning environment. The Graduate Assistant will assist with supporting lab users, maintaining equipment and materials, facilitating training opportunities, and promoting engagement with the Product Innovation Lab while developing professional skills in communication, leadership, organization, technical support, and problem-solving. This appointment is for a maximum of two calendar years.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Currently admitted to a graduate program at SVSU or eligible and intending to apply upon accepting the offer.
• Graduate programs qualifying for this position include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science in Computer Information Systems, or other related graduate programs approved by Academic Affairs.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively within a team environment.
• Interest in innovation, entrepreneurship, technology, maker spaces, product development, or related professional fields.
• Willingness and ability to learn new technologies, equipment, software, and lab processes.
• Strong presentation, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to interact professionally and collegially with students, alumni, faculty, staff, administrators, and community members.
• Commitment to supporting student learning, innovation, and hands-on project development.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn new software quickly.
• Experience and ability to positively interact with all members of the campus community.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodations.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in marketing, communications, outreach, or social media management.
• Exposure to makerspaces, innovation labs, fabrication environments, or hands-on learning spaces through academic, personal, or extracurricular experiences.
• Familiarity with 3D modeling software, 3D printing technology, or related fabrication tools.
• Interest in learning and supporting technologies such as CAD modeling, laser cutting, robotics, soldering, woodworking, sewing, or circuit design.
• Prior customer service, student leadership, tutoring, mentoring, or event support experience.
• Experience working in collaborative, project-based, or educational environments.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the day-to-day operations of the Product Innovation Lab.
• Provide basic guidance and support to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members utilizing the lab and its resources.
• Assist with training users on equipment, tools, software, and safe operating procedures within the lab environment.
• Support maintenance, organization, and inventory of lab equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Assist with operation and troubleshooting of lab equipment including 3D printers, vinyl cutters, laser engravers, sewing machines, and related technology.
• Support users with project planning and identifying appropriate lab resources to meet project goals.
• Assist with development and preparation of instructional materials, demonstrations, and workshops.
• Support planning and coordination of meetings, workshops, tours, special events, and community engagement activities related to the Product Innovation Lab.
• Help promote awareness and engagement opportunities for the Product Innovation Lab across campus and within the community.
• Provide both prepared and informal presentations regarding the purpose, services, and capabilities of the Product Innovation Lab.
• Work independently while also collaborating effectively within a team environment.
• Demonstrate strong organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills while balancing multiple responsibilities.
• Interact professionally and collegially with students, alumni, faculty, staff, administrators, and community members.
• Utilize strong presentation, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills in daily interactions and programming support.
• Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Participate in training related to Product Innovation Lab equipment, software, and safety procedures while maintaining safe operating practices.
• Support student learning, innovation, creativity, and hands-on project development initiatives.
• Maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and adherence to university and lab safety protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Tuition and fee waiver of up to 12 credit hours per semester (maximum 30 per academic year)
• Excellent retirement package
• Professional development
• Gym memberships

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level