The Electric Vehicle Center (EVC) is hiring a student to work on technical projects advancing the field of experiential education of electric vehicles. As an EVC research assistant, the student will engage in hands-on projects that deepen their understanding of electric vehicle systems, battery technologies, manufacturing processes, and safety practices. Responsibilities include assembling and integrating mechanical testbed hardware based on faculty and engineering guidance, supporting safe lab operations, and creating training materials and manuals that document system functionality.

The position is for approximately 10-20 hours starting Fall 2026, with the possibility to extend the position depending on project needs. Current projects include the dual motor testbed, heat pump testbed, vehicle bi-directional charging, and battery management systems (BMS) lab course development.

Applicants from all University of Michigan campuses (Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Flint) are welcome to apply; the selected candidate must be able to work onsite.

You will:

• Advance your understanding of topics related to electric vehicles, battery technologies, manufacturing processes, and safety practices

• Assemble, machine, and integrate mechanical components and structures for EVC functional testbeds

• Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to fabricate and fit hardware assemblies

• Support the design and implementation of fluid, thermal, and mechanical subsystems (e.g., coolant loops, mounting fixtures, enclosures)

• Support safe handling and testing procedures for high-voltage systems, motors, and battery packs

• Design and execute validation plans for EV Center functional testbeds

• Create training materials and manuals documenting system functionality

• Research and develop content based on faculty briefs

• Learn basic instructional design and best practices in accessibility

• Produce timely and consistent deliverables

You will have:

• Current enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student in the College of Engineering

• Coursework in mechanical design, manufacturing processes, and thermal/fluid systems

• Hands-on experience with mechanical assembly, machining, and use of hand/power tools

• Familiarity with reading and applying engineering drawings, tolerances, and specifications

• Experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar)

• Exposure to heat transfer and thermal systems will aid in understanding the testbeds

• Familiarity with electrical safety practices, particularly around high-voltage systems, is a plus

• Solid organizational skills, including attention to detail, iterative development, and project tracking

• Comprehensive written and verbal skills

• Resourcefulness and strong interpersonal skills

• Experience with engineering student teams (e.g., Solar Car) is a plus

• Interest in the development and delivery of educational content, particularly in the field of electric vehicle and battery technology

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter describing your interest and experience as it relates to the role for "EVC RA: Mechanical." Please note that compensation is determined according to a pay scale that aligns with the candidate's education and experience.

• Current enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student in the College of Engineering
• Coursework in mechanical design, manufacturing processes, and thermal/fluid systems
• Hands-on experience with mechanical assembly, machining, and use of hand/power tools
• Familiarity with reading and applying engineering drawings, tolerances, and specifications
• Experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar)
• Exposure to heat transfer and thermal systems will aid in understanding the testbeds
• Familiarity with electrical safety practices, particularly around high-voltage systems, is a plus
• Solid organizational skills, including attention to detail, iterative development, and project tracking
• Comprehensive written and verbal skills
• Resourcefulness and strong interpersonal skills
• Experience with engineering student teams (e.g., Solar Car) is a plus
• Interest in the development and delivery of educational content, particularly in the field of electric vehicle and battery technology