Laboratory Operations Manager - Materials Research

FAMU National Alumni Association; Bethlehem (Northampton County); On-site; USD 67,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

Lehigh University is seeking a Laboratory Manager for its Materials Science & Engineering labs across Whitaker and HST. The role ensures safe, efficient operation and supports teaching and research activities.

The position requires a technical degree, 1–3 years of relevant experience, strong safety knowledge, and budget management skills to maintain assets and compliance. It offers a full-time on-site opportunity with opportunities to secure funding for new instrumentation.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Vocational/Technical Degree in Engineering or related field.
• 1–3 years of related work experience.
• Experience managing shared or multi-user research lab facilities in academic/engineering/industrial settings.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety regulations and hazardous material handling.
• Experience with budget management, billing systems, or cost-recovery models in a research environment.
• Meticulous record-keeping and ability to manage multiple equipment systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute schedules for preventative and corrective maintenance, calibration, and vendor-coordinated repairs to ensure labs align with teaching and research needs.
• Evaluate, source, procure equipment and consumables with precise inventory controls and detailed records of purchases and usage.
• Oversee long-term performance of laboratory assets and pursue funding to acquire new instrumentation and modernize the facility.
• Supervise and manage shared MSE department laboratory spaces across Whitaker and HST locations, developing and enforcing facility policies.
• Lead comprehensive safety programs, including inspections and training records; ensure safety standards are met.
• Conduct safety and operational training for students, staff, and researchers; serve as liaison for tours to visitors, vendors, alumni, and external partners.
• Provide hands-on technical expertise and operational coordination for undergraduate teaching labs and graduate research activities.
• Train and mentor students, staff, and researchers on equipment operation and safety protocols.
• Diagnose and resolve complex instrumentation and experimental issues to minimize downtime.
• Manage laboratory operating budgets, oversee equipment usage billing, track expenses, and prepare financial reports and forecasts.

Skills

Budget management

Record-keeping

Laboratory safety knowledge

Multi-user lab coordination

Education

Associate's or Vocational/Technical Degree in Engineering or related field

Job description

Lehigh University is seeking a Laboratory Manager for its Materials Science & Engineering labs across Whitaker and HST. The role ensures safe, efficient operation and supports teaching and research activities.

The position requires a technical degree, 1–3 years of relevant experience, strong safety knowledge, and budget management skills to maintain assets and compliance. It offers a full-time on-site opportunity with opportunities to secure funding for new instrumentation.