Careers at Drexel

Job Summary

The Research Instrumentation Specialist is responsible for management of the scanning electron microscopes (2 SEMs and a FIBSEM), X-ray microscope (XRM), sample preparation and general lab maintenance in the Materials Characterization Core (MCC) at Drexel University.
The MCC is a centrally managed shared-instrumentation facility that provides Drexel University and external users access to advanced materials characterization instrumentation, training and expertise. The facility is administered through the University’s Office of Research & Innovation and has been providing access to shared research instrumentation for over 17 years. The Research Instrumentation Specialist reports to the facility’s full-time Director of Operations.

Essential Functions

• Deliver outstanding service to MCC users. 
• Provide comprehensive training for users on MCC SEMs, FIBSEM, XRM and sample preparation equipment so that the user can independently operate the instrument.
• Applicant should be able to modify the training to cater to the experience level of the trainee, including persons with no prior knowledge of the instruments.
• Assist trained users to optimize the instrument and samples for their desired experiment.
• Provide expert consultation on experimental design and applications.
• Coordinate the maintenance of the instruments and perform standard upkeep.
• Manage users and track & confirm usage of instruments using iLab software.
• Develop multimedia training materials for users.
• Available to users outside of normal business hours to address questions or instrument malfunction.
• Advise Director of Operations and others on instrument acquisitions and upgrades.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of a Master's Degree in in relevant engineering or science discipline or the equivalent combination of education and work experience. (Please review the Equivalency Chart for additional information.)
• Minimum of 0-1 year of experience. 
• Experience as user or employ of shared instrument facility.
• Clear and demonstratable knowledge of SEM and FIBSEM techniques and related instrumentation.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate initiative.
• Dependable and punctual.
• Adaptable to changing job requirements and environment of a research lab.
• Excellent in-person and written communications skills.
• Ability to interact with students, faculty and University administrative staff.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant area of study
• Work experience in university research setting
• Demonstrated research experience in a relevant area of study
• Teaching experience

Physical Demands

• Typically sitting at a desk/table
• Typically standing, walking
• Typically bending, crouching, stooping
• Lifting demands > 50lbs
• Lifting demands ≤ 50lbs

Location

• Hybrid/Flexible Work Arrangement

Additional Information
This position is classified as Exempt, grade L. Compensation for this grade ranges from $62,630.00 - $93,950.00 per year. Please note that the offered rate for this position typically aligns with the minimum to midrange of this grade, but it can vary based on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.

Applicants are encouraged to explore the Professional Staff salary structure and Compensation Guidelines & Policies for more details on Drexel’s compensation framework. For information about benefits, please review Drexel’s Benefits Brochure.

Special Instructions to the Applicant
Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.

A review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.