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Design Lab Assistant Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Lab Machinist I

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Lab Machinist I Job no: 506934 Work type: Full-Time Location: University City - Philadelphia, PA ... Design or assist in the design and fabrication of complex machine components, fixtures, testing ...

Biomedical Research Asst II

Wynnewood, PA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.25/hr

You will support the lab for Dr. Anthony Ashton. * Develop and Grow your Career! Invest in ... Regardless of our unique design, we all share a purpose: providing superior service and care.

Biomedical Research Asst II

Wynnewood, PA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.25/hr

You will support the lab for Dr. Anthony Ashton. * Develop and Grow your Career! Invest in ... Regardless of our unique design, we all share a purpose: providing superior service and care.

Biomedical Research Asst II

Wynnewood, PA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.25/hr

You will support the lab for Dr. Anthony Ashton. * Develop and Grow your Career! Invest in ... Regardless of our unique design, we all share a purpose: providing superior service and care.

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Design Lab Assistant information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

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How much do design lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for design lab assistant in Philadelphia, PA is $20.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Design Lab Assistant vs Design Intern?

AspectDesign Lab AssistantDesign Intern
CredentialsRelevant coursework, basic design skillsEnrolled in design or related degree program
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, studios, collaborative spacesDesign firms, studios, educational settings
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, research labs, design companiesDesign agencies, corporate teams, startups
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding support roles in design labsGaining internship opportunities in design

Design Lab Assistants typically support design projects with basic skills and work in educational or research environments, while Design Interns are students gaining hands-on experience in professional design settings. Both roles involve collaboration and learning but differ mainly in experience level and purpose.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design lab assistant?

To thrive as a Design Lab Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of design principles, familiarity with lab protocols, and typically a degree or coursework in design or a related field. Proficiency with design software (such as Adobe Creative Suite or CAD programs), 3D printers, and other fabrication tools is often required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you manage projects and collaborate with team members. These skills and qualities are essential for supporting creative processes, ensuring safety, and maintaining efficient lab operations.

What is a design lab assistant?

Design Lab Assistants are support staff who help maintain and manage operations in design laboratories, such as those found in schools, universities, or creative studios. They assist students, faculty, or professionals by preparing materials, setting up equipment, ensuring lab safety, and sometimes providing technical guidance on design software or tools. Their role is essential for keeping the lab organized and facilitating a productive environment for creative work. Depending on the institution, they may also help with troubleshooting equipment and supporting design projects.

What are some common challenges faced by design lab assistants, and how can they be successfully managed?

Design Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines, maintaining organized workspaces, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Successfully managing these challenges involves developing strong time-management skills, staying proactive with regular equipment maintenance, and communicating clearly with team members and supervisors about project priorities. Embracing a collaborative attitude and being open to feedback can also help Design Lab Assistants adapt quickly and contribute effectively to the creative process.
What are popular job titles related to Design Lab Assistant jobs in Philadelphia, PA? For Design Lab Assistant jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Lab Assistant jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Design Lab Assistant jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Design Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Design Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Lab Assistant job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,496 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Lab Machinist I

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Drexel University rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

410th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Lab Machinist I
Job no: 506934
Work type: Full-Time
Location: University City - Philadelphia, PA
Categories: Drexel University, College of Engineering
Job Summary
Produces precision-machined components by programming, setting up, and operating computer numerical control (CNC) equipment and conventional machining tools. Ensures adherence to quality, safety, and operational standards; provides technical instruction and guidance to faculty, staff, and students; maintains machinery and equipment in optimal working condition; and promotes a safe, organized, and efficient machine shop environment.
Essential Functions
  • Ensure faculty, staff, and students comply with all laboratory policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
  • Promote a safe working environment through training, guidance, and adherence to established health and safety standards.
  • Provide technical instruction, procedural guidance, and hands-on support to faculty, staff, students, and other laboratory users.
  • Anticipate potential issues and assist in resolving challenges to keep projects on schedule and operating efficiently.
  • Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to manufacture components to close tolerances with minimal supervision.
  • Develop sketches and fabricate parts based on verbal instructions or conceptual designs.
  • Program and operate CNC mills and lathes by entering and verifying machining instructions, setting reference points and tool offsets, applying compensation and conditional functions, and calculating machining requirements using mathematics, geometry, and trigonometry.
  • Design or assist in the design and fabrication of complex machine components, fixtures, testing devices, specimens, and experimental apparatus to support research, instructional, and operational objectives.
  • Collaborate with laboratory personnel, faculty, researchers, and students to evaluate, modify, troubleshoot, and improve existing and newly developed designs and equipment.
  • Supervise and provide oversight to students working in the machine shop, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, proper equipment use, and quality workmanship.
  • Demonstrate the safe and effective operation of machine shop equipment and laboratory tools to students, faculty, staff, and other authorized users.
  • Perform routine daily, weekly, and preventive maintenance on machine shop equipment and related laboratory systems to ensure operational readiness and reliability.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications
  • Minimum of a HS Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience.
  • Proficiency with CAD/CAM software and general computer applications.
  • Possession of personal machinist tools required.
  • Experience operating manual and CNC machine shop equipment, including lathes, milling machines, band saws, grinders, and related fabrication tools.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Completion of a trade school program, formal apprenticeship, or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in CNC and manual machining operations.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively instruct and assist faculty, staff, students, and other laboratory users.
  • Thorough knowledge of machine shop safety practices, procedures, and regulations, with a demonstrated commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
  • Proven ability to demonstrate professionalism, initiative, integrity, adaptability, attention to detail, and a strong sense of accountability and urgency in completing assigned tasks.

Physical Demands
  • Typically standing, walking
  • Typically bending, crouching, stooping
  • Lifting demands ≤ 25lbs
  • Lifting demands > 50lbs
  • Lifting demands ≤ 50lbs

Location
  • University City - Philadelphia, PA

Additional Information
This position is classified as Non-Exempt, grade I. Compensation for this grade ranges from $21.71 - $32.57 per year. Please note that the offered rate for this position will vary based on the successful candidate's qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.
Applicants are encouraged to explore the Professional Staff salary structure and Compensation Guidelines & Policies for more details on Drexel's compensation framework. For information about benefits, please review Drexel's Benefits Brochure.
Special Instructions to the Applicant
Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.
A review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.
Advertised: Jul 6 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Aug 6 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
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