Prototype Lab Lead for STEM & Business Innovation

Purdue University; West Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Purdue University’s Mitch Daniels School of Business invites applications for an Innovation Lab Manager to launch and operate Purdue’s STEM Business Innovation Lab opening Fall 2027 in the Daniels Building. You will lead operations, guide prototyping activities, and ensure safe, well‑equipped spaces for students and faculty.

You will oversee equipment selection, safety compliance, scheduling, budgets, and partnerships with engineering, business, and campus spaces.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Industrial Design, Technology Education, or related STEM field with 4+ years in rapid prototyping, machine shop operations, academic lab management, or industry product development.
• Associate degree or vocational trade with 6+ years in precision machining, prototyping, fabrication, and shop management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the launch and daily operations of Purdue’s new STEM Business Innovation Lab.
• Provide hands‑on instruction and technical support for students, faculty, staff, and campus collaborators.
• Mentor students using prototyping tools (CAD, 3D printing, CNC, laser engraving, soldering, vacuum forming).
• Manage lab equipment, bays, zones, inventory, vendor relations, maintenance records, and budgets.
• Develop and enforce safety protocols and Purdue EHS‑aligned training requirements.
• Create and oversee safety access certification for lab tools and equipment.
• Hire, schedule, and supervise student GAs/TAs and lab monitors.
• Collaborate with Daniels School of Business faculty to integrate prototyping into entrepreneurship and experiential learning.

Skills

Prototyping tools

Lab management

Safety training

3D printing

CAD

CNC milling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related STEM field

Associate degree with 6+ years of applied experience in prototyping/fabrication

Tools

CNC mini‑mill

Mini‑lathe

Soldering

Vacuum forming equipment

Job description

Purdue University’s Mitch Daniels School of Business invites applications for an Innovation Lab Manager to launch and operate Purdue’s STEM Business Innovation Lab opening Fall 2027 in the Daniels Building. You will lead operations, guide prototyping activities, and ensure safe, well‑equipped spaces for students and faculty.

You will oversee equipment selection, safety compliance, scheduling, budgets, and partnerships with engineering, business, and campus spaces.