How to Apply
Applicants must submit a current resume and a brief cover letter that contains the following information:
- Availability for the semester for which they are applying
- A list of Physics courses completed at UM-Flint
- Contact information of a PHY faculty member who is recommending you
Job Summary
The Division of Engineering and Technology is looking to hire a reliable and detail-oriented student to serve as a Physics Prep Attendant for introductory Physics courses for the Fall 2026 semester. This role will help ensure that weekly lab sessions run smoothly by checking equipment and materials in advance, preparing basic lab setups, and maintaining clean and organized lab spaces. The goal of this position is to reduce potential disruptions during class time by confirming that required supplies and equipment are available and ready before each lab begins. The Physics Prep Attendant will provide laboratory set ups for the following courses: AST 120, PHY 110, PHY 143, PHY 145, PHY 243, and PHY 245.
This is a great opportunity for a student who is organized, dependable, and interested in supporting hands-on learning environments. Each position is filled on a per semester basis. This position will report to the Natural Sciences Laboratory Supervisor. Physics Prep Attendants work weekly schedules based on lab availability and will be finalized upon hiring.
Responsibilities*
The primary responsibility of the Physics Prep Attendant is to help ensure that equipment, supplies, and lab spaces are ready before class begins, minimizing disruptions during instructional time. This includes locating and organizing lab materials, checking equipment, maintaining clean and orderly lab spaces, preparing basic setups as requested, and reporting any missing or malfunctioning items to staff.
In addition, Physics Prep Attendants are expected to:
- Troubleshoot lab activities and equipment as necessary
- Provide recommendations for lab procedure updates
- Know locations and appropriate usage of all safety equipment
- Follow all departmental safety rules
- Ensure good housekeeping in the lab by doing the following:
- Wiping tables and benchtops
- Ensuring that supplies and equipment are stored appropriately
- Reporting any broken equipment/models to the Lab Supervisor
- Assist with inventory of Physics labs
- Communicate work schedule with the Lab Supervisor
Required Qualifications*
- Must be a currently enrolled UM-Flint student in good academic standing
- Knowledge of proper use and handling of equipment related to optics, dynamics, electricity, magnetism, and/or astronomy
- A demonstrated ability to apply laboratory safety rules
- Recommendation by a Physics instructor
- Ability to follow directions and complete tasks independently
- Strong communication skills
Desired Qualifications*
- Previous experience in a lab, classroom support, or equipment setup role
- Excellent organizational skills
- Ability to perform basic repairs on equipment used in the labs
Modes of Work
Onsite
The work requires, or the supervisor approves a fully onsite presence. Onsite is defined as a designated U-M owned or leased work location within or outside of the State of Michigan
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.
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.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of three calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the fourth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.