Laboratory Mechanic - Civil and Environmental Engineering

Laboratory Mechanic

Civil and Environmental Engineering

The Grainger College of Engineering

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering in The Grainger College of Engineering seeks applicants for a Laboratory Mechanic position. This position will perform work comparable to that of a journeyman in the fabrication, operation, maintenance and repair of laboratory equipment and machine tools, and work under the direction of the Research Laboratory Shop Supervisor.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Install, dismantle, maintain and repair fixturing used at Civil and Environmental Engineering for research and testing.
• Install, dismantle, maintain, and repair flumes used at Civil and Environmental Engineering for research and testing.
• Operate machine tools such as lathes, mills (manual or CNC), drill presses, welders (MIG, TIG and Stick), plasma cutters, cutting torch, band saws, sanders, and woodworking tools, such as table saws, routers, radial arm saws, compound miter saws and hand tools. Operate the lift truck, forklift, and similar tools/equipment commonly used for delivery acceptance, equipment placement, and relocation.
• Work from blueprints, sketches, and drawings.
• Assume additional appropriate duties to further the mission of the department.

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent.

Any combination totaling four (4) years (48 months) from the categories below:

1. Successful completion of a machinist apprentice (or a closely related program) in an approved training program or in a training program established by an employer served by the State Universities Civil Service System.
2. Work experience comparable to that performed at the Assistant Laboratory Mechanic level of this series or in other positions of comparable responsibility.
3. Coursework in welding, electrical/electronics, HVAC, industrial technology machining or manufacturing or a closely related field, as measured by the following conversion table or its proportional equivalent:

- 30 semester hours equals one (1)
year (12 months)

- 60 semester hours (or an
Associate's degree) equals two (2) years (24 months)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Possession of a valid U.S. driver's license at the time of hire, which must be maintained throughout the duration of the employment period in the position.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of materials (e.g., metals, plastics, and construction materials) and of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair and maintenance.
• Working knowledge of computer systems, such as CAD files and CAM software.
• Knowledge of math concepts and applications, including algebra, trigonometry, and geometry.
• Skilled in performing maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Skilled at determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
• Skill and ability to perform necessary maintenance and repair on laboratory equipment.
• Ability to install equipment, machines, wiring or programs to meet specifications and to operate such equipment.
• Ability to understand written instructions.
• Ability to read, understand, and interpret maintenance manuals, schematics, drawings, sketches, and diagrams of systems involving mechanical, electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic devices, and the ability to produce simple sketches for production purposes.
• Ability to communicate respectfully and effectively with individuals from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and perspectives.

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

This is a full-time Civil Service Laboratory Mechanic position appointed on a 12-month service basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the closing date. This is a bargained position and as such, the salary is driven by the collective bargaining agreement. The entry-level salary for the Laboratory Mechanic classification is $76,206 ($39.08/hour). This position will be expected to work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus on a full-time basis per the Workplace Flexibility policy. This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND DEADLINE INFORMATION

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on 5/14/2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Please upload your cover letter, resume, and names/contact information for three references. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Stacie Mertes and smertes@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.