Job Title: Engineering Laboratory Specialist
Job Summary
The Edwardson School of Industrial Engineering is seeking an Engineering Laboratory Specialist to shape the future of hands-on industrial engineering education in our highly ranked undergraduate and graduate programs. As an Engineering Laboratory Specialist in Purdues recently launched Gateway Complex, youll be the critical link between cutting-edge technology and transformative learning experiences. This role places you at the intersection of Industry 4.0 and authentic learning experiences through our rapidly evolving set of laboratories where students engage with advanced manufacturing technologies, cyber-physical and digital engineering systems, advanced human factors and ergonomic assessment technologies, and metrological systems.
About the Role
Were seeking an early-career professional who combines engineering competence with a genuine passion for teaching and mentoring. Youll thrive in this role if youre excited about translating complex concepts into engaging practical experiences for undergraduate and graduate students. Your days will be dynamic - preparing instructional materials, training and supporting faculty, staff, teaching assistants, and students, and crafting real-world learning experiences across our diverse laboratory ecosystem. Youll guide students through integrated manufacturing systems in our production-scale facilities and/or facilitate virtual prototyping or ergonomics assessments in our digital innovation spaces.
The Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate brings a systems mindset, foundational experience with hands-on technical skills, and manufacturing technologies (CNC robotics or automation) preferred. Strong problem-solving abilities and the creativity to continuously improve how students experience hands-on learning are also essential. This position offers a chance to make a meaningful impact at a prestigious institution known for innovation and research excellence. Join our community of lifelong learners and contribute your skills to this critical program.
What Youll Be Doing Daily
Laboratory Operations: • Work effectively alongside lab staff, faculty, teaching assistants, and students. • Develop and maintain a working knowledge of all instruments and machines and other laboratory technologies. • Maintain laboratory equipment to ensure proper operation and readiness for daily use within instructional and research activities. • Provide a safe, welcoming, and open atmosphere where students feel comfortable interacting with devices, instructional staff, and one another. • Assist with tours of lab spaces for various stakeholders, including visiting alumni, guest lecturers, perspective students, and prospective industry partners.
Laboratory Development: • Learn new Industry 4.0 technologies and assist in implementing them in an educational laboratory environment. • Build on fundamental knowledge of digitization, computer programming, robotic technology, e.g., robotic arms, co-bots, image capturing systems, augmented and virtual reality equipment, and other advanced manufacturing technology. • Research and recommend new technologies related to laboratory advancement objectives, including topics related to human interaction and performance, physical and cognitive novel and advanced manufacturing technologies, and metrological tools, networked and connected systems, e.g., IoT optimization and industrial analytics.
Course Content Development: • Assist with the creation of new content for all of our various undergraduate and graduate courses as new lab developments arise. • Assist with the allocation of laboratory resources for various courses based upon scheduling demand and course requirements. • Work with faculty to understand learning outcome requirements and desired laboratory experiences for the development and improvement of real-world-based hands-on laboratory experiences.
Laboratory Safety Support: • Assist in ensuring all lab activities are carried out in accordance with EHS guidelines. • Ensure all students within laboratory spaces are equipped with proper attire and PPE. • Assist with laboratory safety audits, 5S activities, and annual training.
About Purdue University
Purdues Edwardson School of Industrial Engineering offers a deep and wide range of expertise in operations research, artificial intelligence, manufacturing, human factors, and production systems. The School is an integral part of Purdues College of Engineering. Purdue Engineering is one of the largest and top-ranked engineering colleges in the nation, renowned for top-notch faculty, students, unique research facilities, and a culture of collegiality and persistent pursuit of pre-eminence. Consistently ranked as one of the top undergraduate industrial engineering programs at Purdue, IE is actively involved in finding ways to overcome societys biggest challenges in todays world.
What Were Looking For
Nice to Have
About Purdue University
Purdue is a community built on collaboration with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride, and endless opportunity to live, learn, and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Additional Information