| Location | Pittsburg, KS |
Pittsburg State University is accepting applications for a Prove-Out Operations and Industry Engagement Manager in the department of Research and Innovation that is responsible for the overall operation, maintenance, and strategic utilization of the Prove-Out facilities within the National Institute for Materials Advancement. This role ensures a safe, efficient, and compliant environment that supports applied research, pilot-scale production, prototyping, and industry collaboration. In addition to facility operations, this position plays a critical role in industry engagement, client development, and revenue-generating activities. The Manager serves as a key liaison between university researchers, industry partners, government agencies, and external clients to expand facility utilization and support innovation and commercialization efforts.
Duties and Responsibilities
Facility Operations and Management- 40%
Oversees daily operations of Prove-Out facilities, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and process utility systems
Conducts routine inspections to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance
Coordinates preventive maintenance and repairs with internal staff and contractors
Maintains compliance with university policies and OSHA/regulatory standards
Manages facility access, safety systems, and operational readiness
Maintains records of maintenance, equipment, and facility usage
Supports setup and coordination of pilot-scale and demonstration activities
Research, Pilot Operations, and Industry Engagement- 30%
Identifies and pursues opportunities to increase facility utilization and revenue generation
Supports applied research and pilot-scale operations in collaboration with researchers and partners
Assists with installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of specialized equipment
Develops and maintains relationships with industry partners and external clients
Promotes facility capabilities to support R&D, prototyping, and scale-up activities
Supports development of sponsored projects, fee-for-service work, and client engagements
Project and Capital Improvement Management- 20%
Manages facility renovation, infrastructure upgrades, and equipment installation projects
Develops project scopes, budgets, and schedules
Coordinates with engineers, architects, contractors, and stakeholders
Ensures projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget
Supports planning of future facility capabilities and expansions
Other Duties as assigned- 10%
Education and Experience
Required Education and Experience- Time of Hire
Bachelor's degree in science, engineering, engineering technology, industrial technology, business, facilities management, or a related field
One year of experience in research, manufacturing, pilot-scale, industrial, laboratory, or facility operations
Demonstrated ability to coordinate projects, operations, or technical activities
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in science, engineering, engineering technology, industrial technology, business, facilities management, or related field. This degree requirement ensures candidates possess the advanced theoretical knowledge, highly specialized methodologies, and critical problem-solving skills fundamental to this work. These competencies are typically developed and rigorously validated only through the comprehensive curriculum and intensive experiential experience inherent in a formal degree program.
Preferred Education and Experience
Master's degree in science, engineering, engineering technology, industrial technology, facilities management, business, or a related field
One year of experience managing projects involving budgets, contractors, equipment installation, or capital improvements
One year of experience with installation, commissioning, operation, or troubleshooting of specialized research, manufacturing, or pilot-scale equipment
Experience working with industry partners, external clients, or sponsored research projects
Experience with facility operations, maintenance, safety, or regulatory compliance
Experience supporting applied research, product development, prototyping, or technology commercialization
Knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe laboratory or industrial work practices
License or Certification Required by Statute or Regulation
Screening Services (Background Checks): Your employment with Pittsburg State University is contingent on a satisfactory criminal background and sex offender check.
Salary Range: Commensurate with Experience
Job Type: Unclassified
Appointment Duration: 12 months
Work Schedule: Full Time, Monday- Friday, weekends as needed, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, evenings as needed
Application Documents Required*:
Resume
Cover Letter
Names and Contact Details for three (3) Professional References
Transcript
Consolidate into two documents to upload.
Open Until Filled.
Search Committee Chair: Mary Louise Widmar, mwidmar@pittstate.edu
Visa Sponsorship is available for this position.
PSU will only accept applications submitted through this process.
Pittsburg State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a respectful and supportive environment for all employees.