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Engineering Lab Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Engineering Lab Assistant information

What does an engineering lab assistant do?

An Engineering Lab Assistant supports engineers and scientists by preparing materials, setting up equipment, conducting experiments, and recording data in laboratory environments. They help maintain a safe and organized workspace, calibrate instruments, and may assist in analyzing results or troubleshooting equipment. Their work is essential in ensuring that experiments run smoothly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering lab assistant?

To thrive as an Engineering Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, laboratory procedures, and safety protocols, often supported by an associate degree or relevant coursework. Familiarity with lab equipment, data acquisition systems, and software such as MATLAB or LabVIEW is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are important soft skills that set high performers apart. These competencies are crucial for maintaining accurate data, supporting engineers, and ensuring safe, efficient lab operations.

What are some common challenges an engineering lab assistant might face when supporting research and development projects?

Engineering Lab Assistants often juggle multiple tasks such as preparing materials, calibrating equipment, and assisting with experiments, all while maintaining strict safety and documentation standards. A key challenge is adapting to rapidly changing project requirements or priorities, which may require quick learning and flexibility. Additionally, collaborating with engineers and researchers from various disciplines means strong communication and organizational skills are essential for ensuring smooth project workflows.

What is the difference between Engineering Lab Assistant vs Mechanical Technician?

AspectEngineering Lab AssistantMechanical Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certification in engineering or related fieldDiploma or certification in mechanical technology or related area
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, engineering departmentsManufacturing plants, maintenance workshops, repair facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, research institutions, universitiesManufacturers, industrial companies, maintenance providers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Engineering Lab Assistants primarily support engineering research and testing in laboratory settings, focusing on data collection and experiment setup. Mechanical Technicians work more on maintaining, repairing, and assembling mechanical systems in industrial environments. While both roles require technical certifications and involve hands-on work, Engineering Lab Assistants are more research-oriented, whereas Mechanical Technicians focus on mechanical system maintenance and repair.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Engineering Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Engineering Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Engineering Lab Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Electrification Lab Assistant

Rochester, MI • On-site

Oakland University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Oakland University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Position Title
Electrification Lab Assistant
Department
0050 - Engineering & Computer Science
Position Number
E23738
Requisition No.
TC06416
Salary Range/Pay Rate
15
Benefits of Working at Oakland University
No benefits are associated with this position.
Employee Group/Grade
Casual
Job Category
Casual /Temporary
Casual/Temp Classification
Work Schedule
Casual (19hrs or less, No Benefits )
Shift/Days
Pay Schedule
Hour
Number of Hrs./Wk.
10

What Oakland University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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