APPLIED Lab Technician

APPLIED Lab Technician

Job no: 536136

Work type: Staff

Senior management: College of Engineering

Department: Mechanical Engineering

Location: Blacksburg, Virginia

Categories: Facilities / Skilled Trades, Information Systems / Technology, Other

Job Description

The APPLIED Lab is a combined woodworking, metal working, 3D printing, and welding shop for capstone students in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Virginia Tech. The APPLIED Lab Technician supports the day-to-day operation of the APPLIED Laboratory by supporting student training, safety oversight, machinery maintenance, and ensuring the lab operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with university Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards. Candidates should be organized and exhibit good communication skills.

Required Qualifications
• Hand-on experience with at least two of the following types of manufacturing equipment-woodworking machines, mills, lathes, CNC machines, laser cutters, welders, or 3D printers-through coursework, training, projects, or work experience, with the ability to safely operate equipment under supervision.
• Experience supporting, assisting, or leading peers, students, or team members in a structured environment (e.g., classroom, lab, club, or workplace), with the ability to follow and help enforce established procedures.
• Knowledge of shop safety practices and hazardous materials, demonstrated through coursework, safety training, or orientation, with the ability to follow written safety guidelines and use required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Preferred Qualifications
• Hands-on experience operating at least three types of manufacturing equipment (e.g., woodworking machines, mills, lathes, CNC machines, laser cutters, welders, or 3D printers), including setup, operation, and basic troubleshooting, demonstrated through work, academic projects, or certifications.
• Experience working or volunteering in a university makerspace, machine shop, or fabrication lab, with responsibility for equipment use, user support, or facility operations.
• Working knowledge of CNC programming and manufacturing planning, demonstrated by creating and running at least two CNC programs (e.g., G-code) and selecting appropriate materials, tooling, and machining processes for projects.
• Experience performing routine equipment maintenance and/or assisting with installation of shop equipment, including tasks such as calibration, part replacement, or setup, documented through prior roles, training, or projects.
• Experience managing an environmental health and safety (EHS) compliance program.

Pay Band

4

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$40,000 - $60,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

May 18, 2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Amanda Collins at View email address on click.appcast.io during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: April 13, 2026

Applications close:


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