Capstone Senior Design Lab Manager

Job Summary

The Capstone Senior Design Lab Manager is responsible for overseeing the operation, safety, and strategic development of the Capstone Senior Design Lab within Mechanical Engineering.

The Senior Design Lab is a 4,000 sq. ft. makerspace dedicated to fostering student innovation in the capstone program. The space is outfitted with rapid prototyping tools, student workbenches, and other equipment to create a collaborative prototyping environment for student teams.

This role combines technical leadership, lab operations, and student mentorship. The Lab Manager ensures a safe, high-quality prototyping environment while supporting student teams in the design, fabrication, and testing of sponsored engineering projects. The position works closely with the Capstone Director and faculty to support the curriculum and ensure continuity across semesters.

About Capstone Senior Design

The capstone design sequence (ME EN 4000/4010) is a two-semester program in which teams of 4-6 students complete industry- or faculty-sponsored engineering projects, progressing from concept through prototyping and testing.

Responsibilities

Lab Operations & Management

• Lead day-to-day operations of the capstone design lab, including access, scheduling, and safety compliance
• Establish and enforce lab policies, procedures, and best practices
• Maintain a safe, organized, and fully functional working environment

Equipment & Technical Oversight

• Oversee setup, operation, and maintenance of prototyping and manufacturing equipment (3D printing, CNC, conventional machining)
• Manage equipment lifecycle planning, maintenance, and lab inventory
• Administer lab budget, purchasing, and resource allocation

Staff Supervision

• Hire, train, and supervise student lab staff
• Manage staffing schedules to ensure consistent lab coverage
• Develop staff capabilities in safety, equipment use, and support functions

Student & Instructional Support

• Support instruction of Capstone Senior Design courses
• Mentor student teams in design, fabrication, and testing
• Provide hands-on technical guidance and troubleshooting support

Program & Facility Development

• Drive continuous improvement of the lab as a modern maker space
• Build relationships with campus partners, vendors, and industry sponsors
• Support long-term planning, growth, and visibility of the facility

Minimum Qualifications

EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

Supervisor, Mechanical Engineering Management: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master's (or equivalency) degree.

Senior Supervisor, Mechanical Engineering Management: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience.

Preferences

• Demonstrated oral and written communications skills; and a commitment to providing excellent service
• Background in design engineering with hands-on manufacturing experience
• Experience with 3D printing and machining (CNC and/or conventional)
• Experience with mechatronics, control systems, electronics, or automation
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) and/or FEA analysis
• Experience mentoring students or supervising technical staff
• Knowledge of lab safety practices and operation of technical facilities
• Strong organization skills and attention to detail