Lab Manager

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Boone (NC); On-site; USD 56,169 - 58,169; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is searching for a Lab Manager at Appalachian State University. This role involves overseeing daily print center operations while ensuring high service standards and quality control. The ideal candidate should have experience in print production and strong organizational skills.

You will collaborate with faculty and clients to develop effective production plans, manage budgets, and ensure safety compliance. A Bachelor's degree and relevant experience are required for this position.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years experience in print production, retail management, or related field.
• High ability to coordinate tasks and problem solve.
• Knowledge of digital and offset printing operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the print center and retail facility.
• Manage print production workflows and maintain quality assurance processes.
• Collaborate with faculty and clients for production plans and cost estimates.

Skills

Printing skills

Organizational abilities

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Job description

Lab Manager

Department: Art - 265050

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from a four-year college or university and two years of general experience, preferably including supervision; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Familiarity with a variety of the field's concepts, practices and procedures. Demonstrated experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.

License/Certification Required

None specified.

Essential Job Functions

Operations Management

• Oversee all daily operations of the print center and retail facility, ensuring efficiency, organization, and high service standards.
• Plan and coordinate facility maintenance to ensure a safe, functional, and productive work environment.

Print Production & Quality Control

• Manage print production workflows, ensuring all jobs meet established specifications, deadlines, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with faculty and clients to develop production plans and provide accurate cost estimates.
• Monitor and maintain quality assurance processes throughout all stages of production.

Inventory & Procurement

• Track, manage, and maintain inventory for print materials, supplies, and retail merchandise.
• Procure materials and equipment using cost-effective and efficient purchasing practices.
• Anticipate supply needs and maintain appropriate stock levels.

Equipment Oversight

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of all print lab equipment.
• Ensure proper use and longevity of equipment through preventative maintenance and training.

Financial & Administrative Management

• Collaborate with the Art Department Chair and budget officer to monitor and track lab expenses.
• Support fiscal planning, budgeting, and administrative reporting for the print lab.

Customer Service & Coordination

• Provide high-level customer service, including job consultation, estimating, and order coordination.
• Communicate effectively with faculty, staff, students, and external clients to ensure satisfaction.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Recruit, train, schedule, mentor and supervise student employees.
• Evaluate student performance and provide mentorship to enhance skills and productivity.
• Establish an ethic of "Continuous Improvement" in the quality and productivity of students' work.

Training & Instruction

• Train faculty and students in the safe and effective use of print lab equipment and processes.
• Provide guidance and technical support for print-related projects.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Work closely with Art Department faculty and leadership to ensure timely completion of high-quality projects.
• Collect and respond to feedback from faculty, staff and department chair to improve operations and services.
• Implement process improvements based on feedback and best practices.

Safety & Compliance

• Develop, implement, and enforce lab safety procedures.
• Ensure all users are informed of and adhere to safety guidelines.

Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and goals of the department.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required for this Position

• Possesses knowledge of various printing skills; print production operations including digital and offset printing, bindery, and finishing.
• High ability to coordinate tasks and problem solve; excellent organizational abilities and attention to detail.
• Organizational and budgetary skills; thorough understanding of retail management principles including inventory control, merchandising, and point-of-sale systems; strong budgetary and financial management skills.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills; ability to manage and motivate staff.
• Ability to work with and manage others.
• Ability to carry out repair needs and delivery of materials for various print lab areas.

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduation from a four-year college or university and two years of experience in print production, retail management, or related field, preferably including supervision; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Familiarity with printing operations, retail management concepts, practices and procedures.
• Demonstrated experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.
• Experience in Graphic Design pre-press and output, Graphic Communications, or related field.

Work Schedule/Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM each business day, excepting planned and approved vacation and university approved holidays. On occasion there may be the necessity to work past 5:00 PM in order to meet customer scheduled delivery requirements.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $56,169-$58,169

Closing Date: 7/30/2026

To apply, visit https://appstate.peopleadmin.com/postings/54849

Appalachian State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. The University does not discriminate in access to its educational programs and activities, or with respect to hiring or the terms and conditions of employment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity and expression, political affiliation, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or sexual orientation.