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Engineering Lab Assistant Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

The ECE Lab Assistant helps maintain and support the Electrical and Computer Engineering instructional labs. This role involves organizing lab spaces, preparing course materials and kits, checking ...

$15 - $19/hr

POSITION SPECIFICS The Department of Electrical Engineering invites applications for part-time grader and lab assistant positions for the spring 2026 semester. Applicants should be enrolled in either ...

Plan and conduct photo shoots to source high-quality images for engineering lab test procedures and work instructions. * Assist in creating and maintaining other engineering lab department manuals ...

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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 Pennsylvania are hiring for Engineering Lab Assistant jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Engineering Lab Assistant job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Lab Assistant- Engineering

Villanova, PA • On-site

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

$13/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform regular maintenance and repairs on equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and other tools.

  • Assist and participate in workshops, events, and training sessions held in the lab.

  • Help students and faculty with their projects by providing technical support, guidance, and troubleshooting assistance.


Villanova University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Posting Details
Do you have questions about the application process? If so, please refer to the Applicant FAQ's.
Position Information
Posting Number:
20260221V
Position Title:
Lab Assistant- Engineering
Posting Type
Student
Hours/week:
15-20 hrs/week
Eligibility:
Work study preferred but open to all students
Semester
2026-2027 Academic Year
Location
Drosdick Hall
Detailed Work Schedule
Typically 15-20 hours/week is anticipated.
Number of positions:
2
Department:
201-Dean-Engineering
Contact Name:
Mackenzie Bonney
Contact Phone/Extension:
610-519-8762
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary:
Join our team as an Engineering Lab Assistant at the Drosdick Innovation Lab in the Villanova College of Engineering! As a Lab Assistant, you'll play a crucial role in supporting the operations of our new state-of-the-art makerspace, where students, faculty, and staff come together to explore, create, and innovate. You'll have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge equipment, assist with workshops and events, and help foster a dynamic and inclusive maker community. If you're passionate about engineering, hands-on learning, and making a difference, this is the perfect role for you!
Requirements:
Requirements:
  • Currently enrolled as a student in the Villanova College of Engineering.
  • Experience with at least one of the following areas: electronics, 3D printing, computer-aided design (CAD), or woodworking.
  • Ability to commit to working 10-15 hours per week, but up to 20 hours if desired.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude, with a willingness to learn new skills and techniques.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Detail-oriented with a focus on quality and safety in all aspects of work.
  • Reliable, responsible, and punctual, with a positive attitude and a passion for making and innovation.

Responsibilities:
  • Perform regular maintenance and repairs on equipment, including 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and other tools.
  • Assist and participate in workshops, events, and training sessions held in the lab.
  • Help students and faculty with their projects by providing technical support, guidance, and troubleshooting assistance.
  • Clean and organize the lab space to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.
  • Collaborate with lab staff and faculty to develop new procedures, protocols, and resources for lab users.
  • Maintain inventory of supplies and materials
  • Uphold lab policies and procedures, and ensure compliance with safety regulations and guidelines.
  • Other duties as assigned to support the operations and mission of the Drosdick Innovation Lab.

Additional Information:
Physical Demands Summary:
The Innovation Lab is two floors accessible by stairs, however, accessibility accommodations can be made if necessary.
Wage Rate:
$13/hr
Posting Detail Information
Closing Date (11:59pm ET):
Open Until Filled
Yes

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About Villanova University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Villanova University, located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, United States, operates within the higher education industry. Its establishment traces back to 1842 by the Augustinians, a Catholic religious order. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines, including Liberal Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Nursing, Business, and Law, serving over 10,000 undergraduate, graduate, and law students. Guided by its Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition, it is committed to community service, and it seeks to cultivate knowledgeable, thoughtful, and ethical leaders. The university’s mission is to empower students to ignite change, with a vision for a just and peaceful world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Villanova, PA, US

Year founded

1842

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