Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager and Makerspace Technician

Howard University Hospital; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 90,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

PTO & holidays

403(b) with company match

Tuition reimbursement

Career advancement

Commuter benefits

Job summary

Howard University is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager/Makerspace Technician to oversee the operation of the department’s labs and makerspace, provide technical support for instruction and research, and ensure safety and compliance. The role includes calibrations, maintenance, and supervision of student assistants in a hands-on teaching environment.

You will collaborate with faculty to prepare courses, train students, and manage equipment such as CNCs, 3D printers, wind tunnels, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering with 2–5 years in lab management.
• Experience in laboratory management, machine shop operations, or equipment maintenance.
• Alternative: 10 years of progressively responsible related work experience may substitute for education.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain departmental lab facilities and makerspace.
• Provide technical support for instructional and research activities.
• Ensure safety compliance and oversee equipment procurement and repairs.
• Train and certify students and staff on equipment operation.
• Collaborate with faculty to plan and deliver laboratory courses.
• Calibrate and inspect facilities and equipment.
• Oversee student use of facilities and supervise assistants.

Skills

Machine shop operations

Fabrication equipment

CAD/CAM

Safety compliance

Office software

Makerspace training

Communication

Engineering drawings

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Autodesk Fusion

Microsoft Office

Inventory management systems

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here Is What We Offer

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Howard University

Job Title

Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager/CEA Makerspace Technician

Primary Department

Mechanical Engineering

Job Summary

The Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager/Makerspace Technician oversees the management, maintenance, and safe operation of all departmental laboratory facilities, including machine shops, instructional spaces, and the CEA makerspace. Major responsibilities include: Provide technical support for laboratory instruction, research activities, student projects, and makerspace operations. Ensure compliance with safety standards, facilitate equipment procurement and repairs, and supervise student assistants and student use of facilities. Collaborate with faculty to prepare, set up, and deliver laboratory courses. Conduct routine maintenance, calibrations, and inspections of facilities and equipment. Operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on specialized equipment, including CNC machines, 3D printers, wind tunnels, and material testing; provide consultations on machining techniques and CAD/CAM programming. Manage the departmental machine shop and the makerspace lab, overseeing student design and building activities using manufacturing tools. Provide comprehensive training and certification to students, faculty, and staff on the safe operation of CEA makerspace and machine shop equipment. Assist in the assessment and analysis of space, equipment needs, and requirements.

• Provide technical support for laboratory instruction, research activities, student projects, and makerspace operations.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, facilitate equipment procurement and repairs, and supervise student assistants and student use of facilities.
• Collaborate with faculty to prepare, set up, and deliver laboratory courses.
• Conduct routine maintenance, calibrations, and inspections of facilities and equipment.
• Operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on specialized equipment, including CNC machines, 3D printers, wind tunnels, and material testing; provide consultations on machining techniques and CAD/CAM programming.
• Manage the departmental machine shop and the makerspace lab, overseeing student design and building activities using manufacturing tools.
• Provide comprehensive training and certification to students, faculty, and staff on the safe operation of CEA makerspace and machine shop equipment.
• Assist in the assessment and analysis of space, equipment needs, and requirements.

Core Competencies

• Advanced knowledge of machine shop operations, including materials processing and the use of precision tools to fabricate parts.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining fabrication equipment, such as CNC machines, lathes, mills, grinders, 3D printers, waterjet cutting tools, laser cutting machines, welding stations, and other general machining tools.
• Knowledge in using CAD/CAM software in design, technical drawing, and engineering principles relevant to mechanical systems and additive/subtractive manufacturing processes.
• Strong understanding of laboratory and makerspace safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and risk management in educational and research settings.
• Skill in operating computers, related software applications (e.g., Autodesk Fusion, Microsoft Office suite, inventory management systems), and office equipment.
• Expertise in providing hands-on training and supervision in a makerspace environment, including user certification and troubleshooting for design and prototyping activities.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a diverse population, including faculty, students, and external stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field, with 2-5 years of relevant experience in laboratory management, machine shop operations, or equipment maintenance. Alternatively, 10 years of progressively responsible related work experience may be substituted for educational qualifications.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

$90,000-$100,000