Capstone Senior Design Lab Manager
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
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JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$85,000–$115,000 Per Year
JOB TYPE
Full-time, Employee
SKILLS
3D Printing, Analysis Skills, Best Practices, Budgeting, CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing), CNC (Computerized Numerical Control) Systems, Continuous Improvement, Detail Oriented, Engineering, Engineering Management, Finite Element Analysis, Higher Education, Identify Issues, Laboratory, Laboratory Management, Laboratory Operations, Laboratory Techniques, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Equipment, Mechanical Design, Mechanical Engineering, Mentoring, Operations Management, Organizational Skills, PTC Creo, People Management, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Process Improvement, Prototyping, Purchasing/Procurement, Rapid Prototyping, Resource Management, Safety Compliance, Schedule Development, SolidWorks, Strategic Planning, Team Player, Technical Leadership, Technical Operations, Technical Support, Technical/Engineering Design, Testing, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Salt Lake City, UT
POSTED
Today
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.
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
Work Schedule Summary: M-F 8am-5pm
Department: 00068 - Mechanical Engineering
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: $85,000-$115,000 determined on experience
Close Date: 6/5/2026
Open Until Filled:
To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/201909
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About the Company
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