Research Engineer (OMEGA)

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Working under general supervision, perform specific aspects of a broader engineering problem. The engineer 1 will receive supervision on new aspects of the work and on difficult problems. The engineer will work on a federally funded project which aims to preparing orthopedic implants for testing in animals and humans. Specific responsibilities of the engineer include design reactors, develop processes, perform experiments, and collaborate with other team members with the ultimate goal of developing engineered cartilage and bone material for implantation in animals and humans.

Essential Functions

Perform specific aspects of a broader engineering problem. Perform design, machining, prototyping or fabrication of designed components, custom parts, jigs, and fixtures for bioreactors used in tissue engineering of cartilage and bone. (50%) Support complex scientific and research programs related to area of specialization; analyze data, monitor, and oversee experimental process, and design and develop prototypes, specialized equipment, and/or systems. (20%) Apply methods and techniques, adjust and correlate data, determine errors in results, and follow the operation through a series of related steps to completion. (10%) Exercise judgment on certain details of the work and in assisting in making preliminary selections and adoptions of possible alternatives. (10%) May be assisted in work by a technician. (6%)

Nonessential Functions

Perform other duties as assigned. (4%)

CONTACTS

OMEGA Program: Daily contact with supervisors and program staff to discuss research and maintain workflow (50%)

Department: Daily contact with supervisor to discuss research and maintain workflow (50% frequent).

University: Limited to no contact with other departments not in the OMEGA program to share information. (0%)

External: Occasional contact with vendors for training (5%).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees.

Qualifications

Experience: 0 to 2 years of professional engineering experience.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering.

Required Skills

Experience with aseptic protocols and procedures involving human and/or animal cells. Ability to keep accurate and up to date information. Ability to operate common laboratory equipment including bioreactors. Ability to maintain consistent attendance. Ability to interact with colleagues and supervisor face to face. Ability to design reactors to given specifications. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Good/strong organization skills; ability to multi-task, prioritize and meet deadlines. Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively within a team. Effective problem-solving skills; must demonstrate, sound judgment and good decision-making. Ability to develop protocols for automated equipment. Must demonstrate flexibility and ability to work under pressure. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Will work indoors in general laboratory environment with bloodborne pathogenic materials.

Willingness to have flexible work hours occasionally involving evenings and weekends. May have exposure to hazardous chemicals such as formaldehyde.

In employment, as in education, Case Western Reserve University is committed to Equal Opportunity and Diversity. Women, veterans, members of underrepresented minority groups, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Case Western Reserve University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 to request a reasonable accommodation. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.