Job Description
Req Id:  37508
Job Title:  Instrumentation Specialist, Senior
City:  West Lafayette
Job Description: 

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Lead innovation where groundbreaking research meets Boilermaker Pride.

 

We are seeking a seasoned instrumentation specialist to serve as a technical leader and strategic partner to faculty, staff, and students. This role is critical to advancing research and education through the design, development, and support of custom scientific instrumentation. As a senior member of the instrumentation team you will design solutions, validate systems, and solve complex challenges across hardware, software, and specialized infrastructure—directly enabling cutting-edge research and education while providing continuous opportunities for learning and growth.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Act as senior consultant for specifying, installing, operating, and repairing advanced scientific equipment/instrumentation
  • Oversee end-to-end project management of large-scale equipment initiatives, coordinating cross-functional teams
  • Troubleshoot and repair systems at all levels: electronic hardware, gas/water plumbing, and computer hardware/software
  • Conduct validation testing to ensure equipment meets exacting research and instructional requirements
  • Strategically source and implement new technologies while optimizing legacy systems

 

What Makes Purdue Unique
Ownership of Impact: Your expertise directly shapes discoveries in one of the world’s top research institutions

Culture of Ingenuity: Join problem-solvers who value practical solutions and resilient, hands-on collaboration

Growth Ecosystem: Mentor emerging talent while accessing continuous learning opportunities in evolving technical fields

Pride in Purpose: Contribute to work that matters in a community united by shared Boilermaker values

 

Who You Are

  • A technical leader with deep expertise in multidisciplinary systems troubleshooting
  • Skilled in balancing complex project management with hands-on technical work
  • Adept at translating academic/research needs into engineered solutions
  • A natural mentor who elevates team capabilities through knowledge sharing
  • Committed to Purdue’s values of excellence, innovation, and community

 

Why Purdue?
At Purdue, you’ll join a legacy of innovators who turn ideas into impact. Here, your technical mastery fuels discovery while our culture fuels your growth. Experience the pride of maintaining world-class infrastructure that supports Nobel-caliber research—all within a community that values both monumental achievements and daily collaboration.

 

 

About Us

Purdue University’s Amy Instrumentation Facility is a collaborative, innovation-driven environment supporting faculty and student research through the development of custom scientific instrumentation and methodologies. We specialize in creating advanced, non-commercial hardware and software to meet unique research and educational needs.

 

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Needed:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field 
  • Minimum of four (4) years of experience in electronics design and the development of new and unique instrumentation for scientific applications or other complex systems
  • Experience with general productivity software (Word, Excel, Power Point) and software specific to PCB layout and CAD
  • Hands-on experience with repair, design, modification, and characterization of electronic and electromechanical hardware

 

  • Preferred:
    Advanced degree in electrical engineering OR related field OR physical science and experience with micro-processor, FPGA, RF, real-time automated system control, network data storage, and data acquisition 

 

Skills Needed:

  • Proficiency in data acquisition software and hardware for instrument design and control
  • Proficiency in TCP/IP networking and MS Active Directory
  • Skill in the use of electronic test equipment and circuit design/layout software
  • Proficient in at least one programming language
  • Ability to:
    • identify problems, analyze information and implement solutions with sound judgment
    • conceptualize functionality of subassemblies in complex systems and characterize/diagnose performance issues of the whole 
    • work independently and in a team environment  
  • Possess a learning orientation to study and interpret technical documents, research literature and systems documentation without substantial ancillary assistance
  • Strong interpersonal skills with ability to influence and build work relationships within a variety of individuals from various backgrounds and educational levels
  • Excellent:
    • organizational and time management skills with the ability to work under pressure, multi-task, accommodate rapidly evolving project requirements, pay close attention to detail, prioritize work, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality
    • customer service skills and professionalism

 

Additional Informaiton

Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  
A background check will be required for employment in this position
FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
Retirement Eligibility:  Defined Contribution Waiting Period   
Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package -https://www.purdue.edu/hr/Benefits/employeebenefits/benefits_enrollment/pdf/summaries/2025/Benefits-summary-Admin-Prof-2025.pdf including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Professional 3

  • Pay Band S075
  • Job Code #20003172

Career pathmaker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

 

EOE / AA

Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer.

Posting Start Date:  7/1/25