Student - Robotics and Engineering Lab Assistant

Southern New Hampshire University is a team of innovators. World changers. Individuals who believe in progress with purpose. Since 1932, our people-centered strategy has defined us — and helped us grow a team that now serves over 180,000 learners worldwide.

Our mission to transform lives is made possible by talented people who bring diverse industry experience, backgrounds and skills to the university. And today, we're ready to expand our reach. All we need is you.

The opportunity

Job Summary:

Southern New Hampshire University is currently seeking two student employees to support the School of Engineering, Technology, and Aeronautics (SETA) in the daily operation of the Electrical Engineering and Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) laboratories, as well as robotics outreach events throughout the academic year. Reporting to the Engineering Lab Facilitator, the student worker will assist with laboratory operations, support students during lab activities, and help prepare and maintain robotics platforms used in outreach events, coursework, and demonstrations.

This position combines technical engineering responsibilities with peer support and STEM outreach. The student assistant will become familiar with laboratory equipment, safety procedures, and robotics systems to help fellow students, and maintain an organized laboratory environment. In addition, the student will assist with the preparation and execution of robotics events, including occasional weekend outreach activities. This position offers an opportunity to develop technical, communication, leadership, and professional skills in a collaborative engineering environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with the daily operation of the Electrical Engineering and UAV laboratories by maintaining a safe, organized, and efficient work environment (Professionalism, Career & Self-Development)
• Learn the operation of laboratory equipment and become familiar with laboratory policies, safety procedures, and best practices (Technology, Professionalism)
• Support students during laboratory sessions by answering basic questions and directing them to appropriate resources when needed (Communication, Teamwork)
• Help monitor compliance with laboratory safety rules and proper equipment usage (Professionalism, Leadership)
• Prepare, inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot robotics platforms for coursework, demonstrations, and outreach activities (Technology, Critical Thinking)
• Assist with 3D modeling, fabrication, and development of robotics components and instructional materials (Technology, Critical Thinking)
• Develop and update clear assembly instructions and technical documentation for robotics projects (Communication, Technology)
• Assist in preparing materials, equipment, and demonstrations for STEM outreach events and summer programs (Career & Self-Development, Teamwork)
• Represent SETA during robotics outreach events, including occasional evening and weekend activities (Leadership, Communication)
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and fellow student workers to support laboratory operations and engineering initiatives (Teamwork, Communication)
• Adapt to new tasks and responsibilities in support of evolving engineering and outreach needs (Professionalism, Career & Self-Development)

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current enrollment in an Undergraduate Day program at SNHU
• In good academic standing
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing

Preferred Qualifications:

• Major in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or a closely related discipline (Technology)
• Experience with 3D modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar CAD software) (Technology)
• Foundational knowledge of electronics, robotics, or laboratory equipment (Technology)
• Strong interpersonal skills with an interest in mentoring and assisting fellow students (Communication, Leadership)
• Self-motivated with a willingness to learn new technologies and laboratory procedures (Career & Self-Development)
• Availability to support occasional evening and weekend outreach events
• Eligible for Federal Work Study as part of their financial aid package

Learning Outcomes:

• Career & Self-Development: Develop confidence in supporting laboratory operations, managing engineering projects, and contributing to outreach initiatives.
• Communication: Strengthen verbal and written communication by assisting students, preparing technical documentation, and collaborating with faculty and peers.
• Critical Thinking: Enhance troubleshooting and problem-solving skills through robotics maintenance, laboratory support, and technical challenges.
• Equity & Inclusion: Foster an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds.
• Leadership: Build leadership skills by mentoring peers, promoting safe laboratory practices, and representing SETA during outreach events.
• Professionalism: Develop reliability, accountability, adaptability, and strong organizational skills in a professional engineering laboratory environment.
• Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, and fellow student workers to support instruction, laboratory operations, and outreach programs.
• Technology: Gain hands-on experience with laboratory instrumentation, robotics platforms, CAD software, engineering tools, electronics, and technical documentation.

We believe real innovation comes from inclusion - where different experiences, perspectives and talents are celebrated. So if you're wondering whether SNHU is right for you, take the leap and apply. You might be just the person we're looking for.

Compensation