Research Technician

Department

PSD Enrico Fermi Institute: Administration

About the Department

The Enrico Fermi Institute is an interdisciplinary research unit within the Division of Physical Sciences of the University of Chicago. The Institute's activities include the following: string theory and theoretical high-energy physics, experimental high-energy physics, theoretical astrophysics and cosmology, experimental particle astrophysics, infrared and optical astronomy, cosmic microwave background observations, general relativity, and gravitational waves, and cosmochemistry.

Job Summary

The Research Technician will work with the University of Chicago experimental particle physics group on the assembly, testing, and quality control of silicon pixel detector modules for the ATLAS experiment at CERN's Large Hadron Collider. The position will be based primarily at Argonne National Laboratory and will support the production of detector modules for the upgraded ATLAS Inner Tracker (ITk). The successful candidate will work closely with University of Chicago researchers and the ATLAS pixel team at Argonne, as well as collaborators at institutions across the U.S. and internationally.
This position is intended for a post-baccalaureate researcher. The position provides an opportunity to gain substantial experience in experimental particle physics and detector instrumentation while contributing directly to the construction of a major international scientific instrument. The successful candidate will receive hands-on training in all tasks.
This position is grant-funded and expected to last approximately one year, with the possibility of future renewal based on project or grant funding.

Responsibilities

• Support assembly and testing of ATLAS ITk pixel modules at Argonne.
• Receive, inspect, and record detector components and materials.
• Perform basic, metrology and electrical, measurements of components and assembled modules.
• Carry out electrical and quality-control tests using standard procedures.
• Assist with module processing steps such as masking, de-masking, and parylene coating.
• Prepare modules and documentation for shipment.
• Enter and check production and test data in databases.
• Maintain production records.
• Work with the team to support efficient production.
• Help identify and troubleshoot issues during assembly and testing.
• Attend team meetings and training sessions.
• Follow all lab safety, cleanroom, and security rules.
• Collects and enters data. Assists in analyzing data. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
• Provides routine or standardized laboratory duties by collecting data in support of research projects under direct supervision.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Engineering or a related field, or at least two completed years in such a program.
• Recent bachelor's degree graduates interested in pursuing graduate study or a career in experimental physics, detector instrumentation, or engineering are especially encouraged to apply.

Experience:

• Laboratory or experimental research experience with electrical measurements, lab equipment, or electronics.
• Experience in a cleanroom or controlled lab environment, with particle physics or silicon detector work is a plus.
• Experience assembling small components or precision mechanical work.
• Experience using spreadsheets, databases, or similar tools for data entry and analysis.
• Experience with programming (e.g., Python, C++), Linux/Unix, or similar tools.

Preferred Competencies

• Attention to detail and commitment to accurate, reliable work.
• Good organization and data management skills.
• Basic quantitative and data analysis skills.
• Comfortable using computers and standard office software
• Willingness to learn lab equipment, procedures, and software.
• Identify unusual results and communicate issues clearly.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Work independently and as part of a team.
• Take direction and feedback.
• Comply with all safety protocols and ethical guidelines related to research activities.
• Follow detailed procedures.
• Must comply with all applicable University of Chicago and Argonne National Laboratory safety, training, access, and computer-security requirements.

Working Conditions

• Primarily in-person at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Illinois, in the Argonne Micro Assembly Facility and associated laboratory and office environments.
• Work may involve prolonged standing.
• Work is generally performed during normal business hours, Monday through Friday.
• Willingness to perform repetitive measurements and tasks.

Application Documents

• Resume or CV (required)
• Cover Letter (preferred)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

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FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

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Pay Range

$24.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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