Beamline Technician Jobs

PME ChemMatCARS
ChemMatCARS, affiliated with the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering (PME), the University of Chicago and funded by NSF, is a national user facility for frontier research in chemistry and materials science using synchrotron x-rays. It is located at the Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory. The mission of ChemMatCARS is to develop and operate world-class synchrotron x-ray facilities in the areas of small-molecule crystallography, liquid interface scattering, and anomalous small angle scattering to serve the needs of ChemMatCARS users.
Under the supervision of the Faculty Director, the Beamline Technician will assist in technical support activities related to scientific research projects, beamline development, and user operations at ChemMatCARS. Activities include, but are not limited to, operating and maintaining UHV and HV vacuum equipment, troubleshooting electronic instruments, managing electrical cables, machining parts, and assembling equipment to facilitate users’ experiments.

• Assists with the testing, integration, and maintenance of mechanical assemblies and scientific equipment.
• Conducts engineering studies and may assign work to technical staff
• Under general guidance, prepares electrical cables for electronic equipment, motors, and connects cables to those instruments.
• Troubleshoots electronics and mechanical equipment. Confers with research staff to identify and resolve operational problems.
• Performs other related work as needed.
• Assists with the maintenance and upgrades of the ChemMatCARS UHV and HV vacuum systems and equipment.
• Analyzes equipment to establish operating data and conduct experimental tests.

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

• Knowledge and skills developed through years of experience working in higher education, academic or industrial research environments.

• Familiarity with electronic wiring, soldering, and electronic cable making.
• Working experiences with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity with UHV and HV vacuum systems and equipment.
• Familiarity with the mechanical construction, assembly, and maintenance of scientific equipment.
• Familiarity with technical machine drawings (CAD models and drawings) and the processes required to fabricate the drawn parts to specifications.
• Familiarity with handling power and hand tools, lifting equipment, and machine shop equipment, such as a lathe, milling machine, cutters, drill press, etc.
• Familiarity with a wide range of machining and fabrication skills that utilize metallic and non-metallic materials.
• Familiarity with research laboratory environments and operations.

• Demonstrated excellent communication skills.
• Demonstrated problem-solving, organization, analytical, and coordination skills including attention to detail.
• Must be able to prioritize urgent tasks while ensuring established deadlines are met.
• Ability to be flexible and adaptable to changes in workflow and procedures.
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to handle multiple, concurrent tasks within deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, and to interact with a diverse workforce.

• Minimal outdoor work.
• Occasional extended work hours.
• Must be able to ascend ladders and work in narrow spaces.
• Research Environment.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds.

• List of three references (preferred)
• Resume/CV (required)

Research
Individual Contributor
Exempt
Monthly
40
Yes
No
No
No