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Position Summary:
The Ted and Karyn Hume Center for National Security and Technology at Virginia Tech is seeking applicants for a research lab manager and technician to support a growing body of hands-on research programs in our Electronic Systems and Aerospace & Ocean Systems labs. This research covers a broad range of topics and methods, with desired support for lab-based prototyping of electronics (analog, radio frequency, complex digital systems, software defined radios), support for hands-on machining (using machine shop tools, packaging electronics, additive manufacturing, space payload assembly, automotive experimentation), installation and maintenance of equipment at a SATCOM ground station, support for managing materials for use in a chemical lab (soldering, liquid metal antennas), and direct test & evaluation support to sponsored programs. Coupled with this hands-on research support, the candidate will also support lab maintenance, inventory processes, equipment calibration, and training processes for students. This research will be performed both by faculty members and by students, leading to the need for candidates capable and interested in mentoring students in how to safely use equipment. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands on experience in supporting tasks related to these research topics, with appropriate certifications desired, although no formal engineering degree is required
Meaningful certifications such as those given by ASME , IPC , ASE , or similar will be valued more heavily than formal college degrees.
Additionally, the candidate will support research that primarily focuses on support to the national security community. Consequently, US citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required.

Required Qualifications:
- Proven hands-on experience in relevant electronics technician and machine shop research flows, with appropriate certifications achieved during prior roles;
- Experience with conducting prototyping and assembly in Electronic Systems relevant areas;
- Proficiency with the tools germane to field of research;
- Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team;
- U.S. citizenship is required due to the majority of the work being performed on projects and in a lab that has ITAR and other customer restrictions

Preferred Qualifications:
- Interest and/or experience in working effectively with a diverse faculty, staff and student population;
- Experience managing inventory, with basic computer and database skills
- Certifications / coursework for hands-on technician / assembly roles, examples including; electronics assembly (through hole and surface mount soldering; use of lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and multimeters)
-Machine shop tools (hole punches, lathes, torque wrenches, welding)
-Clean room experience with specific focus on space systems assembly
-Additive manufacturing and 3D printing
-Automotive repair and prototyping
- Experience working in an academic environment;
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
- Experience conducting research supporting the federal government or defense applications.



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