Advanced Composites Technician

The University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) is seeking a Advanced Composites Technician to join our Advanced Composites Group within the Structures and Materials Engineering Division. This senior-level role involves managing composite materials testing labs, supervising technical staff, and executing mechanical and environmental testing of advanced composite materials.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work with cutting-edge aerospace and defense technologies in a collaborative and fast-paced research environment. The ideal candidate will be hands-on, detail-oriented, and capable of balancing lab management responsibilities with technical execution.

Core Duties
• Fabricate and QC composite test specimens
• Operate and maintain Instron and MTS test systems
• Develop and run test methods using Bluehill Universal and MTS Testworks 4
• Assemble and maintain high-pressure (3000 psi) hydraulic and compressed air systems
• Calibrate and troubleshoot test instrumentation(strain gages, LVDTs, extensometers)
• Implement and monitor lab safety, quality, and scheduling practices
• Support lab documentation and reporting in accordance with ISO 9001:2015 standards

T3
• Associate degree in Mechanical or Electro-Mechanical Engineering or similar
• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in a mechanical testing lab
• Proficiency in mechanical assembly, fabrication, and use of lab tools
• Basic knowledge of electrical signals and electromechanical troubleshooting
• Familiarity with ASTM composite test standards
• Working knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, and unit conversions
• Skilled with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Strong organizational and interpersonal communication skills
• Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S. citizen

A T4 must meet all T3 minimum qualifications in addition to the qualifications listed below.
• 12+ years of relevant experience
• Leadership or supervision of technical staff
• Advanced experience in composite layup, machining, and testing
• Extensive experience with data acquisition systems and instrumentation
• Strong familiarity with industry standards and testing best practices

While not everyone may possess all of the preferred qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring many of the following:

• 10+ years of experience in composites or testing laboratories
• C-SCAN NDE Level 1 or 2 certification
• Experience with ISO 9001:2015, NADCAP, or A2LA quality systems
• Data reduction and analysis expertise
• Basic machine shop skills, tool and jig design experience
• Advanced troubleshooting of electromechanical systems

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity, achieve equitable outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. As an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, we will not discriminate against minorities, women, protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, or on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.