at University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois, United States
Job Description
Visiting Research Engineer - Coordinated Science LaboratoryCoordinated Science Laboratory
Revised
The Center for Networked Intelligent Components and Environments at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is seeking a Visiting Research Engineer for the new Intelligent Micro-Precision Systems Laboratory.
The Micro-Precision Systems Laboratory will address the growing manufacturing need for high levels of precision in the processing, manipulation and assembly of miniature components found in packaging, connectors, cables, and electronic interconnects. The goals of the Laboratory are to 1) explore non-mechanical processing technologies for creating micron-scale features on parts, 2) explore how and if lithography-based micro-fabrication processes can be incorporated into a company's technology stack, 3) develop new materials technologies and thin film processes for contacts, interfaces, and tooling, 4) explore the hybridization of the above unconventional processes with traditional, high-volume manufacturing formats, 5) develop micro-manipulation and micro-assembly technologies for high-mix, small-batch, precision production, 6) explore and prototype processing cell/line that can be scaled and deployed in a company's production facility.
Job Summary
Initiate, manage, and support research activities as well as the coordination and operation of research projects emerged from the research activities in the new Intelligent Micro-Precision Systems Laboratory.
Duties & Responsibilities
Laboratory Management
- Prepare Laboratory including overseeing facility requirements, acquiring equipment that meet specifications, machine installation, and equipment calibration.
- Act as the Laboratory Safety Officer and ensure security of the facility and information. This will include: developing and maintaining safety protocols and documentation based on requirements outlined by the Illinois' Division of Research Safety; ensure all Laboratory personnel are up-to-date on safety training; providing appropriate access to the Laboratory; ensure data are appropriately managed and secure.
- Ensure Laboratory quality documentation which includes, but is not limited to, quality manuals, standard operating procedures, and data management instructions.
- Assess and implement equipment upgrades and enhancements.
- Interface with companies to be able to address their design and manufacturing needs and develop research projects aligned with Laboratory objectives.
- Integrate capabilities developed in individual research labs and equipment available in user facilities at the University of Illinois to increase the technology readiness level of project outcomes through collaborative research.
- Assist in the development of research proposals, research papers, reports, and presentations for individuals using the Laboratory.
- Effectively communicate with researchers and the company representatives about project goals, timelines, and deliverables for each research project.
- Contribute to the research of the design of new machines, design of the products using those machines, and the development of processes to make the products.
- Train and manage researchers, graduate students, and company representatives to properly use machines and execute project tasks.
- Develop tutorials and training modules on equipment capabilities and how to use the equipment, the status of manufacturing products using the machines, and broader training on micro and nano manufacturing technologies.
- Participate in the University of Illinois' manufacturing ecosystem activities
- Attend conferences and stay informed about latest technologies, products, and companies related to the Laboratory work.
- Develop and/or contribute to proposals for future laboratory infrastructure.
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field with experience in micromanufacturing
- Experience with computer numerical controls and software programming
- 4 years of experience with hands-on laboratory research, operation of manufacturing equipment, data acquisition, and experimental design (experience can be associated with graduate education)
- 4 years of experience in at least one of the following areas: high speed communications; signal and power integrity; photonics in electrical design; materials and processing for printed circuit boards, modules and packages; interconnects modeling and analysis (experience can be associated with graduate education)
- 2 yrs of working in multidisciplinary research teams from academia and industry (experience can be associated with graduate education)
- Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- Experience with software programming related to artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing
- Experience with making, using, ordering, and/or redesigning manufacturing and micromanufacturing machines
- Experience developing training modules
- Experience in proposal development and/or developing statements of work
- Proficient in Laboratory documentation
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to exercise initiative, confidentiality, discretion, and sound independent judgement
- Creativity and ambition for developing state-of-the-art projects
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 7/1/2025. Salary range for this position is $90,000 - $100,000.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on June 30, 2025. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jennifer Drennan at jldrenna@illinois.edu . For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits .
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify .
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal , or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu .
Requisition ID: 1030448
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
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