How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position. Your submissions will be used to assess writing skills during the initial screening process.
Job Summary
Under the supervision of the ZEUS Facility Manager and the ZEUS Facility Management Committee (FMC) the Laboratory Engineer will maintain the day-to-day operations of the ZEUS laser system and assist in the operation of the ZEUS target areas.
Who We Are
Michigan Engineers are world-class educators, researchers, students and staff who strive to build a people-first future. As part of a top national public research institution, Michigan Engineering's mission is to provide scientific and technological leadership to the people of the world, develop intellectually curious and socially conscious minds, create collaborative solutions to societal problems, and promote an inclusive and innovative community of service for the common good.
Why Work at Michigan?
In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:
- Generous time off
- A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
- Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
- Life insurance
- Long-term disability coverage
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
- Maternity and Parental Leave
Responsibilities*
- High power (Class IV) laser alignment, operation and maintenance
- Inspect, disassemble, repair, refurbish and test laser optics and optical assemblies in a controlled laboratory environment.
- Perform inspections, repairs, alignments, calibrations, and other testing of laboratory equipment
- Participate in installation, testing, and commissioning of ZEUS vacuum system
- Maintain ZEUS vacuum system including roughing vacuum pumps, turbo pumps and vacuum gauges
- Develop quotes, order parts for laser and vacuum systems
- Perform and coordinate written and verbal communications regarding laser and optical systems
- Perform, review, and maintain data entry for operational log systems
- Properly use and maintain cleanroom facility and equipment
- Read, understand, and maintain library of documentation on lasers and optics, and laboratory diagnostic and vacuum equipment
- Train new staff members and students on laser operation, optics handling practices and maintenance procedures
- Occasionally operate and maintain machine shop equipment
- Occasionally program in CAD/CAM using proprietary software
- Other duties as assigned
Approximate percentage of duties:
- 40% High power laser alignment, operation, and maintenance
- 20% Operation and maintenance of vacuum system
- 20% General laboratory equipment set-up, maintenance and repair
- 20% Include:
- Ordering materials and equipment
- Interactions with faculty, staff and students on experimental set-up and design
- Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor's degree required in physics, optics or engineering with 2 or more years of full-time experience laboratory work, or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Experience with vacuum systems, vacuum components, instrumentation and associated test equipment (e.g., leak detectors, RGA's etc.)
- Problem-solving skills, including the demonstrated ability to synthesize ideas, anticipate next steps and prioritize important decisions
- Proven ability to communicate effectively with faculty, staff and students
- Good organizational and prioritizing skills
- Attention to details in workplace, especially with optics
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, etc.)
- Able to effectively use the Internet
- Proficient in the use of a wide variety of hand tools and testing equipment
- Able to use chemical solvents including but not limited to acetic acid, acetone, and isopropyl alcohol while performing daily duties
- Proficient in reading and comprehending technical information as presented in equipment manuals or in electronic media
- Ability to accurately document technical data
- Experience performing physical job tasks safely. This includes but is not limited moving and transporting equipment up to 50lbs, and pushing and pulling up to 35 pounds, positioning to service and maintain equipment and can be in a stationary position (up to 8 hours)
- Must be able to work effectively with minimal supervision
- Resourceful; able to discern who to call for assistance based on the technical situation at hand
Work Locations
Gerard Mourou Center for Ultrafast Optical Science, Ann Arbor, North Campus.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
Term limited position through September 30, 2026 with possible renewal based on funding extension.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.