The expected hiring range for this position is:
$28.30-$34.51.
Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such the scope and responsibilities of the position, qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs.
What your day-to-day as a Mechanical Technician III will look like:
- Fabricate, set up, operate, test, and repair electrical, electronic, and mechanical equipment supporting laboratory and experimental systems
- Interpret drawings, schematics, and diagrams to build and modify equipment used in scientific applications
- Serve as a technical resource within your assigned area, helping troubleshoot issues and support ongoing operations
- Assist in the assembly, construction, and preparation of experimental and support equipment for testing and deployment
- Perform diagnostics and testing using appropriate tools and software to ensure equipment functionality and reliability
- Document procedures, testing results, and completed work through reports, databases, and logbooks
- Compile and maintain technical data, safety documentation, and operational records using standard software tools
- Troubleshoot and repair a wide range of instruments and systems, ensuring minimal downtime
- Support environmental, safety, and health (ES&H) efforts, including surveys, waste handling, and compliance activities
- Conduct safety inspections and assist with hazard analysis and mitigation planning
- Participate in chemical and radiological waste handling, including preparation, packaging, and documentation
- Respond to operational needs, including off-hours support or emergency call-ins when required
- Manage inventory of parts, tools, and materials; support procurement and requisition processes
- Contribute to equipment and system design improvements, helping drive quality and performance
- Provide guidance to junior technicians or contractors and may lead work for specific tasks or shifts
- Perform other duties as assigned to support project and operational goals
- Maintain compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations
- Skills and Attributes for Success:
- Hands-on problem solver who can troubleshoot complex technical systems
- Strong attention to detail with a focus on safety and quality
- Ability to read and apply technical documentation and schematics
- Comfortable working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Adaptable in a fast-paced, project-driven environment with evolving priorities
- Willingness to step into leadership or mentorship responsibilities when needed
- Applicable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:
- Demonstrated experience working in a technical or laboratory support environment
- Strong understanding of electrical, mechanical, and/or electronic systems
- Working knowledge of ES&H practices, procedures, and compliance standards
- Ability to support complex builds, testing, and troubleshooting activities
- Proficiency with common software tools for documentation, reporting, and data tracking
- Ability to operate a government vehicle, if required
Minimum Required Education and Experience:
- High school diploma or equivalent (technical certification preferred)
- 5+ years of related technical experience OR 3+ years of experience in a DOE laboratory or in a highly specialized technical area relevant to Fermilab operations (e.g., cryogenics, RF systems, radiation protection, cleanroom environments)
- Experience in a DOE laboratory environment is preferred.
Work Arrangement:
This position is onsite and may require occasional off-shift work, emergency response, or schedule flexibility depending on operational needs.
Benefits/Perks:
Fermilab offers a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family, including:
- Competitive pay and retirement benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Generous paid time off and holidays
- Access to onsite wellness and support programs
- Professional development and training opportunities
- The opportunity to work on world-class scientific projects with global impact
Why Fermilab:
Fermilab is America’s premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and locations around the world, including deep underground mines in South Dakota and Canada, mountaintops in Arizona and Chile, CERN in Europe and the South Pole.
Pre-Employment Screening:
Drug-Free Workplace & Pre-Employment Screening
Fermilab is dedicated to fostering a safe, productive and drug-free environment. An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening.
HSPD-12
In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a federal background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.
Foreign Government Sponsored Activities
Fermilab employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. Such individuals will be asked to disclose any participation for review by Fermilab's Office of General Counsel.
REAL-ID Requirement for access to Fermilab Campus
Fermilab requires all members of the public to produce a REAL-ID, or equivalent, to access the Fermilab Campus for interviews or career events. A list of acceptable forms of ID can be found here: https://get-connected.fnal.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/REALID-Documents.pdf. If a candidate is selected for an interview but does not possess any of the equivalent documents, we may schedule a virtual interview.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Fermilab is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories.