Senior Electronics Technician at Columbia University

• Job Type: Support Staff - Non-Union
• Bargaining Unit:
• Regular/Temporary: Temporary
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $47,900 - $78,200

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. 

Position Summary

Reporting to the Principal Investigator (PI) at the Nevis Laboratories, the Senior Electronics Technician supports our scientific staff of physicists and engineers developing electronics instrumentation for high-energy physics experiments. The incumbent will assemble, repair, and modify electronic equipment parts, components, and systems.

Located 20 miles north of Manhattan in Irvington, NY, Nevis Laboratories is Columbia University's primary center for the study of high-energy experimental particle and nuclear physics.  Faculty members, postdoctoral research scientists, and graduate students, supported by an engineering and technical staff, prepare, design, and construct high-energy particle and nuclear experiments and equipment. 

This is a one-year, full-time grant-funded position with the possibility of renewal contingent funding approval.

Responsibilities

• Manage the administration and maintenance of inventory, including a small warehouse.
• Research parts and communicate with vendors to ensure the availability and timely procurement of components.
• Catalog pieces in the warehouse and maintain accurate records of inventory.
• Build part lists and PCB assembly drawings.
• Provide management oversight of inventory processes and warehouse organization.
• Initiate the ordering process using standard software and Columbia systems.
• Assemble, modify, and repair Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). Apply advanced soldering skills to ensure precise electronic component connections, including through-hole and surface-mount soldering techniques. Complete soldering, cable, and test fixture assembly.
• Perform detailed soldering work, including reflow soldering and using related equipment.
• Inspect solder joints and connections to ensure strong electrical conductivity and mechanical integrity, following industry standards and best practices.
• Troubleshoot and repair soldering issues, such as cold joints, bridges, and other defects, to maintain optimal board functionality.
• Communicate with vendors to procure components and order the fabrication and assembly of custom PCBs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• A combination of education and two years of minimum trade experience will be considered in lieu of a bachelor’s degree.

Other Requirements

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent soldering and technical skills. Specialized experience (SE)/requirement(s).
• Ability to maintain high confidentiality and professionalism with a client focus.
• Strong multi-tasking, prioritization, and organization skills.
• Attention to detail, research, critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Self-starter, a fast learner who can work independently in an interactive environment under limited supervision.
• Working knowledge of database programs.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.