Job Description

The University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI) is seeking a Technical Specialist I to support research engineering and operations activities. This hands-on position supports the design, fabrication, maintenance, and operation of specialized research equipment and facilities while assisting faculty, staff, and students with advanced research projects.

The Technical Specialist I provides mechanical and electrical technical support for research facilities, experimental systems, and specialized equipment. The position fabricates and assembles research hardware, operates and maintains equipment, troubleshoots technical issues, and serves as a practical resource to research teams. The successful candidate will apply sound technical judgment, safe work practices, and strong communication skills in laboratory and research environments.

Technical Support and Fabrication 50%

• Provide mechanical and electrical technical support for research facilities and equipment.
• Fabricate, assemble, and set up experimental systems and research hardware.
• Assist with the design of research components that do not require engineering-level design.
• Operate specialized research equipment in support of projects and testing activities.

Maintenance and Equipment Operations 30%

• Perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of research equipment and facilities.
• Complete modifications, part replacements, adjustments, and calibration.
• Recommend improvements or modifications that enhance equipment performance and reliability.
• Maintain accurate maintenance logs and technical documentation.

Technical Consultation and Training 20%

• Serve as a technical resource for faculty, staff, and students working on research projects.
• Provide guidance on fabrication techniques, equipment use, and safe work practices.
• Assist in training users on laboratory equipment and systems.
• Offer practical technical solutions during project development and testing.

Required Qualifications

Education:

• Vocational or technical training, completion of a certified apprenticeship, or five years of experience in a technical field.

Experience:

• Experience providing hands-on mechanical or electrical technical support in a shop, laboratory, research, industrial, or closely related environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of light fabrication and construction of research apparatus.
• Skill in using shop tools and equipment, including saws, drill presses, and hand tools.
• Knowledge of AC and DC electrical circuits, wiring, and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of sensors, instrumentation, and basic control systems.
• Knowledge of valves, piping systems, air compressors, air dryers, high-pressure air systems, and compressed gases.
• Ability to read and interpret CAD drawings and technical manuals.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Additional vocational, technical, apprenticeship, or specialized equipment training related to research operations.

Experience:

• Experience supporting complex research test facilities and laboratory systems.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of cryogenic fluids, vacuum systems, flammable gases, and oxygen service environments.
• Knowledge of data acquisition systems and LabVIEW.
• Knowledge of wind tunnels, propulsion systems, optics, and lasers.
• Skill in basic mill and lathe work, 3D printing using FFF and SLA processes, CNC router operation, and forklift operation.

Work Location

• Location: University of Tennessee Space Institute, Tullahoma, Tennessee
• Work arrangement: Onsite
• Schedule: First shift, with occasional evening, weekend, or travel requirements as needed
• Work is performed in laboratory and research environments and involves machinery, tools, specialized equipment, required safety protocols, and personal protective equipment.

Compensation and Benefits

• UT market range: MR08
• Anticipated hiring range: $60,000-$65,000
• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

To express interest, please submit an application with the attachments listed below.

• Resume
• Cover letter

About Research Engineering and Operations

Research Engineering and Operations supports the specialized facilities, equipment, and technical capabilities that enable research and student learning at the University of Tennessee Space Institute. The unit works with faculty, researchers, staff, and students to design, build, operate, maintain, and improve experimental systems used in aerospace, engineering, and science research.

About The Division

The University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI), located in Tullahoma, Tennessee, is a nationally recognized research institute supporting advanced research and education in aerospace, engineering, and applied sciences. UTSI partners with federal agencies, industry leaders, and academic institutions to drive innovation and research excellence.

Why Join UTSI

• Opportunity to play a key leadership role in a growing research environment.
• Collaborative and mission-driven culture.
• Engagement with faculty, researchers, and external partners across multiple disciplines.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!