Lab Coordinator Mechanical Engineering, Penn State Berks

The Pennsylvania State University; Reading (Berks County); On-site; USD 51,000 - 74,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount for employees and dependents

Comprehensive benefits package

Paid time off

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking an Engineering Lab Coordinator located in Berks County, Reading, to support both students and faculty in their academic and research activities. This role includes hands-on laboratory management and collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders to enhance engineering program initiatives.

The successful candidate will assist in lab sessions and ensure safety and efficiency in operations, while also managing equipment and collaborating with industry partners. A Bachelor's Degree and relevant experience are required.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of relevant experience or equivalent education.
• Strong understanding of lab safety protocols.
• Ability to collaborate with faculty, students, and industry partners.

Responsibilities

• Support students during lab sessions and projects.
• Ensure lab safety and operational efficiency.
• Oversee manufacturing equipment and provide technical support.
• Manage lab inventory and vendor relations.

Skills

Creating prototypes

CNC machining

Lathe and Mill operation

CAD and CAM proficiency

Welding tools operation

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

CNC equipment

Lathe

Mill

Drill press

Laser cutter

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

Penn State Berks is seeking an Engineering Lab Coordinator (mechanical) to support students, faculty, and staff in academic and research activities working with a faculty supervisor. This role involves hands‑on guidance, laboratory management, and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to enhance the engineering program.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support academic activities by assisting students during laboratory sessions, fieldwork, academic and research projects; evaluate project feasibility; schedule and prepare labs with faculty; provide class coverage and exam proctoring.
• Ensure lab safety, security, and operational efficiency; develop and enforce procedures in alignment with Penn State policies and General Manufacturing Practices.
• Act as the laboratory safety officer; maintain compliance with safety regulations; coordinate with university compliance officers; manage calibration and maintenance of equipment; maintain documentation.
• Oversee the operation of manufacturing equipment in instructional and research labs; provide technical support to faculty, students, and technicians.
• Collaborate with industry partners and Penn State Berks stakeholders to support the development of engineering programs and initiatives.
• Assist faculty and researchers with experiments; recommend and specify equipment and supplies; conduct cost comparisons for procurement.
• Manage lab inventory, purchasing, maintenance, and vendor relations; ensure competitive pricing and accurate recordkeeping.
• Maintain documentation including reports, logbooks, test procedures, and policy records.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in creating prototypes.
• Certification(s) in Lathe and Mill operation, CAD and CAM are desirable.
• Proficiency in setting up, operating, and programming CNC and manual machining equipment, including lathes, mills, drill presses, welding tools, laser cutters, and sheet metal fabrication tools.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $51,000.00 - $74,000.00.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.