Research Support Specialist, YSM Support Services

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Hourly Range

34.77

Overview

The Research and Development Technician will play a critical role in leading the seamless operation of a custom machine shop that specializes in creating precision components for research and development projects. This position will combine hands-on machining skills of custom, one-of-a-kind research support implements with administrative tasks to support both the technical and logistical needs of research teams. The technician will ensure that all machining operations are executed efficiently, safely, and to the highest standards, while also being the department's point of contact for inventory, scheduling, and other administrative tasks that keep the shop running smoothly.

Supporting YSM Labs is to:

Engineer, design, make drawings, select appropriate material such as metals and plastics, fabricate parts, assembly, and testing. In depth knowledge in the use of all necessary machines available at the shop for the fabrication of prototypes and/or multiple assemblies.

Knowledge of tool application, such as drill, tap, threading, turning, milling, grinding, etc.

Ability to make precision parts with close tolerance, within .0005" (.013 mm), by using a variety of measurement instruments.

Knowledge of mechanical mathematics applied to machining tool type, such as speeds, feed rates, and measurable degree of roughness/smoothness on machined surfaces.

Troubleshooting of malfunctioning equipment, evaluate repair method and cost.

Search for hard-to-find materials, parts, assemblies. If feasible, when parts are not available, fabricate them as needed.

Provide consultation to Lab's staff on variety of projects. Explore all possible option to determine feasibility.

Documentation:

Keep records of invoices of material/parts used on projects.

Update documentation of each project for the purpose of effort, material/part purchases, billing.

Prepare and send billing details to requester of service.

Prepare and submit monthly billing to Med Central Unit for finished projects.

Submit justification for P-Card purchases.

Keep and update documentation needed for internal auditing.

Machine Repairs:

Troubleshooting and repair of shop equipment. When necessary, fabricate them to get the equipment back in service as soon as possible.

Replace non-functioning power tools, electronic test instruments, and hand tools.

Equipment: clean, lubricate, replace cutting fluid and oil on scheduled times.

Inventory:

Monitor and keep inventory of cutting tools: drills, taps, screws, washers, nuts, lubes, etc.

Keep inventory of safety items for personal protection.

Purchase, receive, and use the items. Invoices are documented and available upon request.

Administration:

Provide requested documentation and feedback for the compilation of the planning meeting handbook.

Lead the planning meeting as requested.

Departmental rate calculations.

Tracks tools loaned to YSM staff.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Demonstrated ability to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain instruments used for machining parts whether manual or CNC based.

2. Ability to determine individual project needs and research feasibility.

3. Ability to work effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and research in a collaborative environment. Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently, meet deadlines, and keep track of work progress.

4. Ability to use computers for basic administrative tasks such as data entry, inventory tracking, and machine monitoring.

5. Ability to handle tools and equipment with precision and steady hands.

Preferred Skills and Abilities

Familiarity with Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, including programming and setup.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Leads a unit or function, including overseeing and coordinating projects or work processes, and distributes the work of a minimum of two full time employees. 2. Develops and evaluates performance and reliability of test equipment. Performs maintenance of in-house built and commercially built electronic and mechanical research equipment. 3. Determines types and number of tests to be performed on equipment. Recommends modifications to testing equipment. Analyzes results. 4. Instructs laboratory support staff in construction and modification techniques. Develops time and cost estimates, material requirements and methodology. 5. Orders materials and supplies. Coordinates with outside vendors and internal business staff. 6. May set up and operate machinery and other equipment for the fabrication, testing, and modification of instruments, equipment, components, and systems. 7. Provides guidance and advice regarding equipment designs, modifications, acquisitions, uses, and applications for specific research efforts and activities. 8. Trains regular, students, or temporary workers in their duties. 9. May perform other duties as assigned. Required Education and Experience Two years of related work experience in the same job family and a Bachelor's Degree in a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Background Check Requirements

All candidates for employment will be subject to pre-employment background screening for this position, which may include motor vehicle, DOT certification, drug testing and credit checks based on the position description and job requirements. All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of the background check. For additional information on the background check requirements and process visit "Learn about background checks" under the Applicant Support Resources section of Careers on the It's Your Yale website.

Health Requirements

Certain positions have associated health requirements based on specific job responsibilities. These may include vaccinations, tests, or examinations, as required by law, regulation, or university policy.

Posting Disclaimer

The hiring rate of a role is determined in accordance with the provisions outlined in the respective collective bargaining agreement.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the essential functions that will be required of the position and should not be construed as a declaration of specific duties and responsibilities of the position. Employees will be assigned specific job-related duties through their hiring department.

The University is committed to basing judgments concerning the admission, education, and employment of individuals upon their qualifications and abilities and seeks to attract to its faculty, staff, and student body qualified persons from a broad range of backgrounds and perspectives. In accordance with this policy and as delineated by federal and Connecticut law, Yale does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment against any individual on account of that individual's sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, disability, status as a special disabled veteran, veteran of the Vietnam era or other covered veteran.

Inquiries concerning Yale's Policy Against Discrimination and Harassment may be referred to the Office of Institutional Equity and Accessibility (OIEA).

Note

Yale University is a tobacco-free campus.