Laboratory Manager for the College of Engineering and Technology Engineering

The College of Engineering and Technology ( CET) is comprised of the departments of Computer Science, Construction Management, Engineering, and Technology Systems. Faculty and staff in the College provide high-quality graduate and undergraduate degree opportunities and research and service programs that enable students to achieve their career goals and that promote a strong, sustainable future for our region.

The Laboratory Manager oversees instructional laboratory planning and setup; laboratory equipment specification, installation, and operation; and ensuring equipment availability for scheduled laboratory course sessions. Key responsibilities include designing fabrication solutions, overseeing equipment maintenance, and enforcing safety protocols for both research and instructional projects. Additional duties involve training users, managing inventory, and providing logistical support. The Laboratory Manager supports laboratory instruction and research by providing safety briefings to students and researchers in collaboration with instructors and principal investigators. The position does not have instructional responsibilities other than providing laboratory safety briefings as needed. The Laboratory Manager does not serve as an instructor of record, assign grades, or monitor student laboratory activities in place of the faculty laboratory instructor.

Area #1: Instructional Support-50%

1. Safety and Risk Management: Manage laboratory safety protocols and risk assessments. Working with the Director for Laboratory Operations and instructors, design and implement safety systems to mitigate potential hazards and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. In collaboration with instructors, ensure students have received appropriate safety training. Develop emergency response plans for instructional operations and train laboratory users accordingly.

2. Laboratory Setup and Protocol Design: Collaborate with faculty to design experiments that match course content and support learning outcomes. Plan, setup, and breakdown instructional laboratories, ensuring that experiments are properly designed, and that equipment and materials are aligned with the learning objectives. Develop and implement laboratory procedures and experiment protocols, ensuring that safety, efficiency, and educational goals are prioritized.

3. Faculty Communication and Equipment Coordination: Serve as the primary point of contact for faculty regarding laboratory schedules, equipment availability, and instructional needs. Make decisions regarding the selection of equipment and materials based on the specific requirements of upcoming experiments, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently. Develop a flexible system for handling changes in scheduling or experimental needs.

4. Logistical Support and Supply Management: Proactively manage the logistical needs of each laboratory session, including the setup of equipment and preparation of materials. Ensure that the right tools and supplies are available in the correct quantities and that all equipment is in optimal condition.

Area #2: Fabrication and Machining-50%

1. Safety and Risk Management: Manage laboratory safety protocols and risk assessments. Working with the Director for Laboratory Operations, design and implement safety systems to mitigate potential hazards and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. Develop emergency response plans for fabrication operations and train laboratory users accordingly.

2. Custom Fabrication Support: Lead the design and fabrication of custom parts for research and course projects. Collaborate with students, faculty, and staff to define project specifications, assess feasibility, and determine the most efficient methods of production. Utilize technical expertise to recommend material selection, design modifications, and fabrication strategies that optimize strength, durability, cost, and manufacturability. Make decisions on whether in-house capabilities can meet project needs or if outsourcing is required.

3. Training and Protocol Development: Develop and implement training programs for students, faculty, and staff on the safe and effective use of fabrication equipment, including industrial robots, CNC machines, mills, lathes, 3D printers, welding tools, and more. Create and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for each piece of equipment and ensure adherence to best practices. Oversee the evolution of training protocols based on technological advancements and changes in research or project demands.

4. Equipment Management and Maintenance: Install, maintain, and repair fabrication and laboratory equipment within the College of Engineering and Technology ( CET). Collaborate with faculty and supervisor to decide and select new equipment based on research or instructional needs and technological trends. Establish and enforce maintenance protocols to ensure consistent equipment performance and longevity.

5. Inventory and Resource Planning: Maintain an up-to-date inventory of fabrication materials, tools, and equipment. Make informed decisions on the procurement of resources based on usage trends and project requirements. Design inventory control systems to ensure the availability of necessary resources while minimizing waste and excess.

Bachelor's degree and two years of general research experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

N/A

Five years of experience in maintaining, troubleshooting, and using technical fabrication equipment such as industrial robots, CNC machines, mills, lathes, 3D printers, preferably in a custom fabrication shop or makerspace environment. Experience with 3D rendering software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD is a plus.

East Carolina University requires applicants to submit a candidate profile online in order to be considered for the position. Candidates must also submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references, including contact information, online.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

In order to be considered for this position, applicants must complete a candidate profile online via the PeopleAdmin system and submit any requested documents. Additionally, applicants that possess the preferred education and experience must also possess the minimum education/experience, if applicable.

East Carolina University is committed to workforce success and cultivating a culture of care for our employees. ECU prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment based on race/ethnicity, color, genetic information, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, political affiliation, and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status or disability.

Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act ( ADAAA) should contact the ADA Coordinator at (252) 737-1018 (Voice/ TTY) or ADA-Coordinator@ecu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. ECU participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Department for People Operations, Success, and Opportunity at (252) 328-9847 or toll free at 1-866-489-1740 or send an email to employment@ecu.edu. Our office is available to provide assistance Monday-Friday from 8:00-5:00 EST.