Laboratory Technician / Design Engineer
Immigration Policy Lab
Laboratory Technician / Design Engineer
80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term
The ETH Zurich Geothermal Energy & Geofluids Group in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences investigates subsurface reactive fluid and geothermal energy transfer, developing and employing laboratory experiments, computer simulations, and field analyses. Our aim is to gain fundamental insights and to develop sustainable technologies that address societal needs in the energy sector.
Job description
- Design, build and manufacture parts for experiments for the high-pressure, high temperature equipment in the GEG lab (e.g. XRCT, Laser, MRI)
- Create experimental setups with machining tools and employing additive manufacturing techniques (3D printing)
- Support and develop experiments, including feasibility checks and technical design with CAD tools and FEA (Finite Element Analyses).
- Coordination, installation and maintenance of the experimental lab equipment
- Ensure safe and reliable operation of the lab equipment (XRCT, Laser system, MRI), including compliance with safety regulations and standards, documentation of safety protocols and training session for lab users
- Support researchers in experiment design and safe operation of the lab equipment
- Coordinate outsourcing of parts manufacturing, including quotations and technical drawings
- Maintain and service laboratory and field equipment, including drones and magnetotelluric devices
In addition, you will be highly involved in contributing to the GEG lab remodeling efforts and coordinating/building devices, controllers, etc., newly needed due to the lab infrastructure adjustments needed for the new NMR facilities.
Profile
We seek a highly motivated, self-organized professional with a broad skillset spanning traditional and modern technical domains:
- Background as a polytechnician, machinist, CNC operator, or related technical profession
- Expertise in CAD design, 3D modeling, and additive manufacturing
- Ability to build and maintain complex experimental setups and laboratory equipment
- Experience with modern control and data acquisition systems, including Python for connecting to standard open interfaces; familiarity with Matlab, LabVIEW, or SPS is a plus
- Experience in electrical engineering, radiofrequency engineering, and PCB design is a plus
- Excellent interpersonal skills with a passion for developing, adopting, and combining innovative technologies to create practical solutions
- Good English communication skills (German communication skills are highly desirable)
Keen interest in contributing to interdisciplinary research that combines Earth science and energy resources and ranges from fundamental to applied sciences and engineering.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
- A dynamic and stimulating work environment with cutting-edge laboratory and computational infrastructure - both at ETH Zurich as a whole and within the GEG Group in particular.
- GEG's Reactive Transport Laboratory features an X-Ray CT system for conducting in situ reactive transport experiments, as well as a laser laboratory equipped with Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) capabilities.
- We are currently expanding our facilities to include both low - and high-field, multi-nuclide Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) scanners. These will enable in situ reactive transport experiments, along with the quantification and visualization of a wide range of components, temperature, and pressure in up to three dimensions. The NMR systems will also be equipped with Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) capabilities. The GEG Group fosters an open, collaborative, and inclusive culture.
The position is 80-100% with a competitive salary according to ETH Zurich standards. The position is for one year with the potential for annual extensions based on project needs and employee performance. The anticipated position start date is 1st of December 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.
We value diversity and sustainability
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- A cover letter, describing your motivation, experience and qualification for the position
- CV
- Diplomas and relevant work certificates
- If readily available, up to three professional reference letters, otherwise, please provide the contact information of up to three references
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Further information about the GEG Group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Xiang-Zhao Kong (xkong@ethz.ch), Dr. Adam Altenhof (adam.altenhof@eaps.ethz.ch) or Dr. Anke Wohlers (anke.wohlers@eaps.ethz.ch). (no applications to these e-mail addresses).
We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.
For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.