Capstone Senior Design Lab Manager

University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah
Full Time

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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.

Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu

The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.

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

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN45019B

Full Time or Part Time? Full Time