University of California, Davis Looking for LAB MECHN (Laboratory Mechanician) Full Time

The California National Primate Research Center (CNPRC) is an Organized Research Unit which conducts interdisciplinary research on significant human health related problems where non-human primate is the animal model of choice. In addition to its major efforts in research, the CNPRC is also committed to its missions of teaching and service.

Job Summary

Under general supervision, provide journeyman level mechanical work involving the design, fabrication, assembly, construction, modification and maintenance and repair of specialized equipment and/or instruments used for research and colony operations, which includes indoor and outdoor animal housing, a variety of specialized test and mechanical equipment, and facilities supporting research activities ranging from but not limited to building and/or retrofitting equipment that require knowledge and skills in basic woodwork, electrical and plumbing and concrete. Set up and operate all standard machine tools; apply accepted shop practices, machining principles and standard techniques; perform sheet metal and welding work; read and interpret blueprints, sketches and other guides in the assembly, installation, repair, and maintenance of specialized apparatus; and perform other related duties as required.

Position Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Position requires repeated movement, repetitive procedures, operating and maintaining equipment, and safely lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds.
• Work in an outdoor environment with changing weather conditions.
• Perform assigned duties in BioSafety Level 2 and 3 conditions where non-human primates may be either naturally or experimentally infected with potentially hazardous infectious agents such as HIV, SIV, or Herpes B virus.
• Wear protective clothing for extended periods of time including gown, lab coats, gloves, masks, face shields, and head covers.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Measles vaccination or proof of illness required. This position is subject to Medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy.
• Work indoors/outdoors regardless of weather conditions.
• Position may, at times, require employee to work in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present. Required to wear protective clothing in circumstances that require personal protection from infectious diseases and animals.
• Work irregular hours (early mornings, early evening, and/or weekends, as needed). Work occasional overtime, weekends, and holidays.
• California National Primate Research Center employees are directly or indirectly engaged in the performance of work on Federal or State contracts and grants as well as periodically come into contact with controlled substances; and are expected to abide by the UC Policy on Substance Abuse, the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, and the State Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1990.
• The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier, safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdavispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Education/Experience:

• Journeyman level experience in metal fabrication techniques, welding, wood frame construction, plumbing, soldering, electrical and concrete construction.
• Experience in building and equipment maintenance and journeyman experience in the operation of all standard machine shop equipment, auto, truck, tractor, and forklift repair maintenance.
• Experience in the safe operation of a variety of shop equipment, hand tools or power tools, operating forklift, small tractor and attachments and pickup truck. Tools include band saw, lathe, drill press, skill saw, grinder, vise, drill, file hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, acetylene welding, arc welding, cutting torch, sander, router, planer, and electrical test equipment.
• Experience in repair maintenance of small engine machines such as high-pressure pumps and portable heaters.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

• Hands-on knowledge and skills of a machinist in crafts e.g., sheet metal, framing and other related woodwork, construction, and welding, and skills and knowledge electronics, optics, and vacuum systems.
• Technical skills and abilities to conceptualize proposed projects and completing fabrication, modification, and construction of both simple and complex equipment and mechanical systems and devices.
• Interpersonal communication skills to interact with vendors, mechanics, students, investigators, and management staff.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Education/Experience:

• Experience as a top-level machinist to provide mechanical and technical support in the use of a variety of hand tools and shop tools/equipment and construction methods for various colony and specialized research projects.
• Hands-on experience in crafts e.g., sheet metal and welding, and skills and knowledge electronics, optics, and vacuum systems.
• Demonstrated experience as a top-level machinist with experience to conceptualize unique and complex projects that require fabrication, modification, and construction of equipment, outdoor structures, and mechanical/electrical systems and devices.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

• Skills to comprehend researchers’ parameters and restrictions that will develop in test environments.
• Skills to troubleshoot, solve problems quickly, and expedite jobs to accommodate laboratory and researchers’ needs.
• Ability to set priorities and work on a variety of projects at one time under conflicting deadlines.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Background Check

This position is a critical position and subject to a background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background investigation including criminal history and identity checks.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At UC Davis, we’re solving life’s most urgent challenges to bring a fuller, healthier, and more resilient world within reach. We grow from every challenge we take on and we don’t just maintain – we improve.

We recognize that creating an inclusive and intellectually vibrant organization means understanding and valuing both our individual differences and our common ground. The most comprehensive solutions come from the most diverse minds, and you belong here.

As you consider joining UC Davis, please explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education, and our latest efforts to outgrow the expected.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.