Mechanical Systems Specialist

Research Support Specialist I (Mechanical Systems Specialist)

Cornell Laboratory for Accelerator-based Sciences & Education

The Opportunity

Mechanical Systems Specialists contribute to the research mission of the Cornell Laboratory for Accelerator-based Sciences & Education (CLASSE) by translating researchers’ requirements into functional mechanical components and systems.

If you enjoy fixing things and have experience troubleshooting mechanical problems, come grow your skills as part of our team and help advance scientific research through your service.

As a Mechanical Systems Specialist, you will provide essential technical support to the successful development and operation of research equipment across the CLASSE complex on Cornell’s campus. Our team supports all CLASSE groups, but your primary focus will be to maintain optimal performance of particle accelerator systems at Wilson Laboratory.

Typical Responsibilities Of This Role Include

• Performing mechanical maintenance, repairs, and modifications on accelerator components
• Installing and upgrading sophisticated research equipment and support systems
• Collaborating with scientific teams to design and fabricate components for research projects and system upgrades
• Developing and maintaining technical drawings and other engineering documentation
• Conducting design analyses to identify and resolve engineering challenges
• Diagnosing complex mechanical system issues and implementing effective solutions
• Providing technical expertise for challenging problems within your area of specialization

About CLASSE

The Cornell Laboratory for Accelerator-Based Sciences and Education (CLASSE) carries out research in accelerator physics and engineering as well as supporting the operation of the Cornell Electron Storage Ring (CESR) for photon science through the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS). The CHESS organization provides X-ray experimental facilities and brings in users from around the world.

What We Need

Please submit a cover letter and resume telling us about your interest, experience, and qualifications for this position.

When reviewing your materials and evaluating your candidacy, we will look for evidence of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree with 2-4 years of relevant technical or industrial experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience troubleshooting problems on mechanical systems
• Proficiency in Computer Assisted Design (CAD) and advanced skills in mechanical maintenance, installation, and repair techniques
• Proficiency with standard hand and power tools, diagnostic equipment, machine shop, and material handling equipment
• Experience incorporating the perspectives of others
• Ability to respond quickly to off-hour issues and emergencies by remote communication or returning to campus

Additionally, experience with either of the following would be very helpful:

• Advanced machine shop, fabrication, and mechanical skills
• Experience with vacuum or cooling systems

Rewards And Benefits

• This position is located in Ithaca, New York, on the campus of Cornell University. Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability. This is a fixed-term position with an initial appointment period of three years and is renewable based on available funding and satisfactory performance.
• Our benefits programs include comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands. We invite you to follow this link to get more information about our benefits: Understand Your Benefits | Working at Cornell.
• Our leave provisions include health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation and 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1. To offer greater flexibility for observing faiths and traditions we also offer two additional floating holidays. Learn more about our generous leave provisions: Holiday and Accrued Time Off | Working at Cornell.
• Cornell's impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program. Learn more about our extensive educational benefits: Education Benefits | Working at Cornell.

Important Notes About Applying

• Please submit both a cover letter and resume for full consideration.
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

University Job Title

Research Support Spec I

Job Family

Academic Support

Level

E

Pay Rate Type

Salary

Pay Range

$65,447.00 - $75,632.00

Remote Option Availability

Onsite

Company

Endowed

Contact Name

Kathy McKee

Contact Email

[email protected]

Job Titles And Pay Ranges

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• Prior relevant work or industry experience
• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position
• Unique applicable skills
• Academic Discipline

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2025-11-24