New

Research Technician

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Nov 26, 2025
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary Provide technical assistance to a group of professors and their graduate and undergraduate students and postdoctoral scholars involved in engineering research on materials and structures; materials include polymers, metals, and composites. Work involves design and set-up of new and existing research facilities, includingthe knowledge to operate laboratory equipment for research and train new students. This would include hydraulic, optical, electronic, piezo, 3D printing,X-ray instrumentation and composites manufacturing.Training of students and postdoctoral scholars to adopt safe research practices is also included in this job. Essential Job Duties Independently operate and maintain equipment related to solid and structural mechanics research. Train and assist students and postdoctoral scholars in the safe operation of this equipment, document operating procedures when necessary. (40 %) Learn from engineering sketches, technical documentations and oral instructions, circuits and devices for measurements and fixtures for mechanical testing and repair mechanical instruments. Coordinate with external companies for regular maintenance, upgrade and emergency repairs. (20%) Order supplies and provide technical support in optics, photography, 3D printing, X-ray optics and data acquisition. (20%) Perform experiments for and under the direction of faculty. (10%) Basic Qualifications MS degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Civil Engineering with at least 8 years of relevant experience. Preferred Qualifications Experiencein taking initiative and perform tasks with minimal guidance. Interact with a group of individuals and set priorities for tasks to be performed. Able to function in an engineering research laboratory environment. Background in some of the following is desirable: machining, electronics (hardware andsoftware), optics (visible, infra-red and X-rays), high speed photography, instrumentation such as 3D printers, oscilloscopes, strain gages and load cells, personal computers. Required Documents Resume Cover letter Hiring Range $34.00 to $40.25 per hour The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position. If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu. Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.