Research and Lab Engineer

Posting Details

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Posting Summary

Logo

Posting Number
RTF00220PO26

Market Title
Engineer

Link to Market Title
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Business Title (Internal Title)
Research and Lab Engineer

Campus
Columbia

Work County
Richland

College/Division
College of Engineering and Computing

Department
CEC College of Engineering and Computing

Anticipated Hiring Range
$77,000 - $105,000

Location of Vacancy

Part/Full Time
Full Time

Hours per Week
40

Work Schedule

• Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.
• This schedule may change to meet the needs of the college.

Type of Staff Position
Staff Research Grant (SRGP)

Basis
12 months

Job Search Category
Other Professional

About

About University of South Carolina

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below
The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.

South Carolina Retirement
Yes

State Insurance Programs
Yes

Annual Leave
Yes

Sick Leave
Yes

Position Description

Advertised Job Summary

The McNair Center Research and Lab Engineer supports research, development, and operational activities within the McNair Center, which is a part of the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing. This role involves hands-on technical work, equipment maintenance, data collection, and collaboration with faculty, staff, and students. With little to no assistance the Research and Lab Engineer will be responsible for the setup and execution of experiments, maintain laboratory infrastructure, and ensure compliance with safety protocols. This position is primarily laboratory-based with occasional fieldwork.

Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience

• Requires a bachelor's degree in a job related field and 2 or more years of job related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job related certification, training, education, and/or experience.

Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with data acquisition systems, sensors, and instrumentation.
• Familiarity with CAD software and technical drawings, metal fabrication, machining, welding, plumbing, and electrical.
• Prior experience in an academic or research setting with focus on advanced composites.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Demonstrated experience in a laboratory or technical support role with a focus on advanced composites.
• Basic understanding of scientific principles and laboratory practices.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Job Duties

Job Duty

Design and assist with the fabrication and manufacturing of advanced composites and the development of processes related to advanced composites.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
35

Job Duty

Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instrumentation. Maintain inventory of supplies and coordinate procurement as needed. Perform routine maintenance and repairs on technical systems and tools.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
30

Job Duty

Will lead in the set-up, calibration, and troubleshooting of experimental apparatus. Ensure compliance with lab safety protocols and assist with training users on equipment and procedures.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
15

Job Duty

Collaborate with researchers to support project goals and timelines. Support data acquisition and documentation for ongoing research projects.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
15

Job Duty

Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
5

Position Attributes

Hazardous weather category
Non-Essential

Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
No

Posting Detail Information

Number of Vacancies
1

Desired Start Date
11/16/2026

Position End Date
11/15/2027

Job Open Date
09/24/2026

Job Close Date
10/22/2026

Open Until Filled
No

Special Instructions to Applicant

Applicants must upload a copy of their resume'/c.vPositions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.

We are only accepting applications submitted by October 22, 2026.

Quicklink for Posting
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EEO Statement

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected category under applicable law.