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Design Lab Assistant Jobs in Saginaw, MI (NOW HIRING)

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Design Lab Assistant information

See Saginaw, MI salary details

$9

$18

$27

How much do design lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for design lab assistant in Saginaw, MI is $18.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Are design lab assistants in high demand?

Design lab assistants are in moderate demand, especially in educational institutions, research facilities, and creative organizations that focus on innovation and prototyping. The role often requires skills in design software, technical tools, and collaboration, with demand influenced by industry growth in design and technology sectors.

How to become a design lab assistant?

To become a design lab assistant, candidates typically need a background in design, engineering, or related fields, along with proficiency in design software and tools. Relevant skills include technical knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a lab environment. Some positions may require prior experience or certifications in design or prototyping methods.

What exactly does a design lab assistant do?

A design lab assistant supports the design team by preparing materials, setting up equipment, and assisting with prototypes and experiments. They may also help with research, documentation, and maintaining the lab environment, often using design software and tools. The role requires attention to detail and basic technical skills related to design processes.

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For Design Lab Assistant jobs in Saginaw, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Lab Assistant jobs in Saginaw, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Lab Assistant jobs in Saginaw, MI are:

What cities near Saginaw, MI are hiring for Design Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Saginaw, MI with the most Design Lab Assistant job openings:

Design Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Lab Assistant job openings in Saginaw, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,275 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer, Ball Screws

Kaney Aerospace LLC

Freeland, MI • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description

 The Mechanical Engineer, Ball Screw Design supports the design, development, testing, and continuous improvement of precision ball screw assemblies used in aerospace, defense, medical, and industrial applications. Working under the guidance of senior engineering staff, this position performs mechanical design, engineering analysis, prototype development, testing, and manufacturing support to deliver high-performance motion control products. 


Major Responsibilities:

  • Design ball screw components including screw shafts, nuts, return systems, recirculation mechanisms, and drive interfaces. 
  • Create and maintain detailed CAD models, drawings, and engineering documentation.      
  • Assist in defining preload, geometry, lubrication, and performance requirements.
  • Perform engineering calculations related to load capacity, fatigue life, stiffness, backlash, friction, torque, and thermal performance. 
  • Support finite element analysis and validation activities. 
  • Evaluate component performance through analytical modeling and engineering calculations.
  • Support laboratory testing, endurance testing, load testing, efficiency evaluations, and prototype validation. 
  • Analyze test results and recommend design improvements. 
  • Assist with failure investigations and root cause analysis.
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to support machining, grinding, assembly, and inspection activities. 
  • Review manufacturability and assist with design improvements. 
  • Support Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) and design revisions.
  • Prepare engineering reports, calculations, specifications, and design documentation. 
  • Participate in design reviews and technical meetings. 
  • Maintain engineering records in accordance with company procedures.      

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline. 
  • 2-5 years of mechanical engineering experience (or equivalent internship/co-op experience). 
  • Experience with 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks. 
  • Understanding of mechanical design principles, machine elements, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T). 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills. 


Minimum Competencies:

  • Knowledge of ball screw architecture, geometry optimization, preload techniques, and mechanical efficiency factors.
  • Expertise in failure modes, reliability engineering, and life prediction specific to rolling-element mechanisms.
  • Ability to deliver complex technical material clearly.
  • Strong capability in risk management, trade studies, and data-driven decision making.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with electromechanical actuator systems.
  • Background in high-precision manufacturing or grinding/thread-rolling process development.
  • Experience with DO-160, MIL-STD environmental qualification, or similar aerospace standards.
  • Six Sigma, DFSS, or advanced reliability engineering certification.

Operational Details / Work Environment:

  • Primarily office-based engineering role with periodic hands-on testing or lab work.
  • Occasional travel to customers, suppliers, or test facilities.
  • PPE may be required in some manufacturing or laboratory spaces.

Work Authorization / Security Clearance:

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a "US Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 is required. "US Person" includes US Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.



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