Lab Technologist-CRF Thermal Mechanical Properties (TMP) and Nanofabrication Lab (NFL)

University of Massachusetts Lowell•Lowell, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This position supports the daily operations of the CRF Thermal and Mechanical Properties (TMP) Lab and Nanofabrication Lab (NFL) at UMass Lowell. The role involves providing training and services to students, faculty, and external users on a fee-for-service basis. In the TMP lab, responsibilities include operating and maintaining equipment such as Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC), Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA), and Instron Universal Testing Machine (UTM). This involves performing thermal and mechanical analyses, developing experimental methodologies, training users, and assisting with maintenance and inventory. In the NFL, the role supports advanced semiconductor tool suites including photolithography, thin-film deposition, and etching systems, requiring close collaboration with the Director and Sr. Technology Manager in a fast-paced cleanroom environment. The position demands multitasking, attention to detail, and adaptability to changing priorities. Equivalent responsibilities for equipment maintenance, operation, training, advising, service work, and analysis apply to both labs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Materials Science, or comparable field with 1 to 5 years of relevant experience. Relevant senior research work will be considered towards experience.
Thorough knowledge of the operation and maintenance of TGA, DSC, and Instron equipment.
Demonstrated experience in the area of mechanical testing and thermal characterization (TMP analytical techniques).
Thorough knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions.
Ability to read and interpret sketches, CAD files, prints, SOPs and specifications.
Ability to supervise and instruct both external and internal researchers in the proper and safe use of TMP equipment.
Mechanical aptitude, capable of troubleshooting, repairing and maintaining instruments.
Must be able to operate independently with little supervision.
Must be able to lift and move 50 lbs. or less.
Reliable, dependable and team player.
Ability to prepare and conduct experiments using instrumentation, data acquisition and control.
Ability to make oral presentations and written reports.
Ability to carry out written, verbal and/or other instructions.

Nice To Haves

Customer-service oriented.
Ability to multitask and support two facilities and various technical functions on campus simultaneously.
Ability to use good judgment and is an independent self-starter.
May be required to work varying work schedules, shifts.

Responsibilities

Responsible for operations of the TMP/NFL Core lab and provide assistance with internal and external users, including safe use of equipment, training, service work, and data analysis.
Provide general technical laboratory services for the CRF TMP/NFL Lab.
Estimate material, supplies, and equipment needs, initiate procurement, and maintain laboratory stock.
Make recommendations for new instructional, research, and maintenance techniques.
Assist in technical laboratory services in various programs.
Contribute to maintaining laboratory financial records.
Participate in meetings pertaining to instructional and facility-related activities.
Train new instrument users for Level 2 safety training and equipment-specific training.
Provide and maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all Hazardous Materials used in the labs.
Instruct external and internal researchers in the proper and safe use of TMP/NFL equipment and approve users for self-use.
Maintain equipment user reservations using Filemaker scheduling software.
Author and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training records for equipment.
Perform daily maintenance, preventative maintenance, and instrument performance measures for all equipment.
Work with instrument vendors and service engineers for repairs.
Monitor temperature and humidity to ensure a safe and comfortable environment.
Provide reporting as required by supervisor.
Maintain records of CRF training and maintenance.
Enforce lab safety procedures and follow prescribed safety regulations, university rules, policies, and procedures.
Make frequent inspections and tests to determine safe and efficient operation of equipment and apparatuses.
Supervise internal and external users in the use of highly complex technical equipment and apparatuses, demonstrating proper use and interpreting manuals.
May assume full responsibility for instruction, supervision, and performance of users in laboratory sections of courses, working with faculty and assistants.
Champion equipment use and outreach by actively participating in the CRF team's efforts to increase research community engagement through presentations, tours, demos, and meetings.
Promote the University’s commitment to customer service by building effective partnerships, ensuring optimum service to clients, maintaining a welcoming environment, and representing the university professionally.
Manage toxic and hazardous materials in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
Coordinate proper collection and disposal of laboratory wastes.
Follow and enforce prescribed safety precautions, University and department rules and regulations, with special consideration of Export Control and other Office of Compliance issues.
Maintain work areas in clean, orderly, and safe condition.