Temporary - Machine Workshop Specialist
Title: Temporary Machine Workshop Specialist
VP Area: Academic Affairs
Department: School of Science and Engineering
Position Compensation: $30 / hour
Location: University of Northwestern - St. Paul
Who We Are:
Northwestern is a faith-driven community, UNWavering in our Christ-centered principles and identity as those who profess faith in Jesus. Rooted in the unshakable foundation of God’s Word and our calling to impact His world, our mission and vision flow from these core values, expressed through Christ-centered higher education at the University of Northwestern – St. Paul and through gospel outreach and faithfulness with Northwestern Media.
POSITION SUMMARY
Support the engineering faculty to ensure safe and standard operation of metal workshop equipment, which includes the vertical milling machine, precision lathe, and Tormach CNC. This position is an on-site position and will end on May 29, 2026.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Maintain operations of the machine shop to support students and faculty in the engineering program.
- Communicate and implement standard procedures, safe operation, and setup of metal workshop equipment for students.
- Assist faculty to identify and acquire equipment required for the machine workshop.
- Maintain the machine shop equipment through routine maintenance, repairs, and calibration on a regular basis.
- Supervise student employees in the machine shop.
- Perform other duties as requested or assigned.
Because our community is a significant part of our mission and the development of our students, all employees act as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ by actively partnering with the University to disciple students in growing intellectually and spiritually, and with Northwestern Media to lead people to Christ and nurture believers to mature in their faith.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
- Associate degree in engineering technology, or a related degree, with a minimum of 5 years of machine shop experience.
- Minimum 1 year of supervisory experience.
- Experience in laboratory safety procedures and practices.
- Experience and demonstrated skill in manual machining operations.
- Maintain a growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, reflect His character in all interactions, and faithfully uphold and embrace Northwestern’s mission, Doctrinal Statement and Declaration of Christian Community
KEY SKILLS
- Independent & Teamwork: Capable of working both independently and collaboratively, with minimal supervision.
- Confidentiality: Maintains discretion and handles sensitive information appropriately.
- Organizational Skills: Strong time management and problem-solving abilities; able to prioritize and meet deadlines with attention to detail.
- Technical Proficiency: Intermediate to advanced computer skills, including Microsoft Office and related software. Advanced mechanical and machining proficiency.
- Written & Verbal Communication: Strong writing, editing, proofreading, and verbal communication skills.
- Flexibility: Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
- Travel: Willingness and ability to travel occasionally for work-related purposes.
- Driver’s License: Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation.
- Background Check: Must pass initial and ongoing background checks as a condition of employment
WORKING CONDITIONS & DEMANDS
The following working conditions reflect the typical demands associated with this position and are subject to reasonable accommodation as required by law:
- Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to safely and effectively perform job duties in a typical office setting.
- Clear and professional verbal communication for instruction, collaboration, and customer service.
- Manual dexterity and motor coordination for typing, writing, and using equipment/tools.
- Physical mobility to sit, stand, walk, and occasionally bend, reach, or lift as required.
- Cognitive abilities such as focus, memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and adaptability.
- Professional appearance and hygiene appropriate to the role.
- Ability to read, write, and understand instructions and technical information.
- Lift up to 50 lbs.; stoop, kneel, crouch, and handle materials, frequently.
- Ability to operate vehicles or machinery, constantly.
- Exposure to extreme temperatures, loud noise, dust, fumes, airborne particles, and hazardous materials, frequently.
- Proximity to electrical equipment, energized systems, moving mechanical parts, and the use of heavy machinery, tools, or equipment that pose injury risks, constantly.
- Work may include tasks at heights in confined spaces or on uneven, wet, or slippery surfaces with potential for slips, trips, or falls, occasionally.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment involves working for a suburban, Christian university or Christian owned and operated radio station alongside those with a demonstrated commitment and personal relationship with Jesus Christ, a commitment to the mission and values of Northwestern, and an agreement to abide by all Northwestern policies.