Industrial Operations Technology Lab Technician at Tyler Junior College – Tyler, Texas

The Industrial Operations Technology Lab Technician provides technical, instructional, and operational support for classroom and laboratory activities in the Industrial Maintenance, Energy Systems, & Electronic Controls programs. This position assists faculty in preparing, maintaining, and operating instructional labs, ensures a safe and functional learning environment, and supports students in developing hands-on technical competencies in mechanical, electrical, and automated systems.

This position is part-time and can work up to 18 hours per week.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES

• Prepare, assemble, and maintain laboratory equipment, tools, and materials required for instructional activities
• Assist instructors in setting up, monitoring, and cleaning up labs for courses in mechanical systems, electrical controls, hydraulics/pneumatics, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
• Maintain and perform preventive maintenance on training equipment, machinery, and instructional systems
• Support faculty and students in the proper and safe use of tools, instruments, and laboratory equipment
• Ensure compliance with all institutional, OSHA, and safety regulations, including maintaining Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and safety records
• Inventory, order, and track supplies, parts, and consumables necessary for lab operations
• Troubleshoot and repair minor equipment malfunctions; coordinate major repairs or replacements as needed
• Assist in the installation, calibration, and testing of industrial training systems and related instructional technologies
• Provide technical guidance to students during lab exercises under instructor supervision
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the lab and storage areas to ensure a safe, efficient learning environment
• Collaborate with faculty and administrators on lab improvements, equipment upgrades, and instructional support needs
• Support program recruitment events, campus tours, and outreach activities as assigned
• Perform other duties as assigned that support the instructional mission of the department

COMPETENCIES

Knowledge of:

• Industrial operations systems, including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic components
• Operation, calibration, and troubleshooting of industrial equipment and automation systems
• PLCs, motor controls, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and industrial sensors
• Preventive and predictive maintenance practices
• OSHA safety standards, lockout/tagout procedures, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Basic inventory management, purchasing, and recordkeeping procedures
• Principles of instructional laboratory management and student support in a technical training environment

Skills in:

• Safely operating hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic instruments used in industrial maintenance
• Reading and interpreting technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and equipment schematics
• Setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting training systems and instructional apparatus
• Communicating effectively and courteously with faculty, staff, students, and vendors
• Managing multiple priorities and maintaining attention to detail in a dynamic lab environment
• Using computers and software applications related to maintenance, inventory, and instruction (e.g., MS Office, Canvas)

Abilities to:

• Work independently and collaboratively to support instructional and operational needs
• Follow technical directions, safety procedures, and institutional policies
• Demonstrate and model professional and safe work habits
• Lift, move, and position equipment safely and efficiently
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of lab operations and student learning experiences

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Individual Contributor

Work Environment:

• Work involves exposure to moderate noise levels, mechanical equipment, and occasional use of PPE such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.
• Work may be required outside of normal business hours.

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods during lab setup and instruction
• Must be able to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach to operate or maintain lab equipment
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, or pull objects weighing up to 50 pounds
• Must possess fine motor skills and manual dexterity to assemble, adjust, and repair components

Travel Required:

10% Travel possible to state & local recruitment events and job fairs

If travel is required, the candidate must have and maintain a current, valid Texas driver’s license and an acceptable driving record.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Education/Experience

• Associate degree in Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, Electromechanical Systems, or a related technical field; or equivalent combination of education and three (3) years of related industry experience
• Demonstrated competency in the installation, operation, and maintenance of industrial systems and equipment
• Ability to maintain a safe instructional environment and model safe work practices

Preferred Education/Experience

• Experience working in a college or technical training environment
• Certifications such as OSHA 10/30, NCCER, or manufacturer-specific credentials (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley)
• Familiarity with instructional technology and learning management systems

EXPECTATIONS

• Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities are subject to change at any time, with or without notice.
• Will have contact – in person, by email, or by phone – with staff, students, and the general public
• Must exhibit a sensitivity to and an understanding of the diverse academic, socio-economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds of staff and students and to staff and students with disabilities
• Regular and punctual attendance is an essential function of each employee

NOTE: With or without reasonable accommodation, the individual in this position must possess the competencies and must be able to perform the essential functions and duties of the job as described above, including essential tasks requiring specific physical demands.