Founding Applied Engineering Lab Architect & Educator

University of Austin (UATX); Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Austin (UATX) seeks a visionary engineer and educator to serve as Applied Engineering Lead for the Bastrop lab and as architect of our new engineering laboratory. This founding-minded leader will bridge academia and industry, shaping hands-on engineering education.

The Bastrop facility will span ~16,000 sq. ft. to support mechanics, electronics, robotics, optics, prototyping, and fabrication. Occasional travel to the Austin campus is expected.

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s, Ph.D., or equivalent in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
• Technical skills: CAD/CAM, machining, rapid prototyping, and/or circuit design.
• Mission fit: commitment to open inquiry and the pursuit of truth.

Responsibilities

• Program Innovation and Buildout: lead fit-out of the Bastrop facility, design workflows and equipment installation.
• Procurement: lead ordering and setup of laboratory equipment to modern standards.
• Project Development: partner with faculty to integrate hands-on engineering activities into curriculum.
• Industry Liaison: connect with companies to keep projects relevant to current engineering needs.
• Instruction and Mentorship: teach core engineering principles and mentor students on projects.
• Operational Excellence: oversee daily operations and manage staff/vendors as the facility scales.
• Budget & Growth: identify equipment gaps and manage upgrade budgets to maintain state-of-the-art labs.
• Safety and Compliance: establish and maintain a safe, compliant lab environment with OSHA and related standards.

Skills

CAD/CAM

Machining

Rapid prototyping

Circuit design

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Job description

University of Austin (UATX) seeks a visionary engineer and educator to serve as Applied Engineering Lead for the Bastrop lab and as architect of our new engineering laboratory. This founding-minded leader will bridge academia and industry, shaping hands-on engineering education.

The Bastrop facility will span ~16,000 sq. ft. to support mechanics, electronics, robotics, optics, prototyping, and fabrication. Occasional travel to the Austin campus is expected.