Senior Manager, Materials Engineering Management

University of Utah; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Utah seeks a Research Science Manager to direct and supervise engineers in selecting, qualifying, testing, and analyzing materials and processes. You will guide research strategy across polymer, metallurgical, ceramics, or other material areas and lead staff training for evolving material trends.

Collaborating with design engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement, you will provide materials guidance and ensure safe, compliant lab operations in a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field.
• 8+ years of directly related experience for a Senior Manager level may be required.
• Experience leading engineering teams in materials research and development.

Responsibilities

• Technical leadership and management of engineers for materials selection, qualification, testing, and failure analysis.
• Oversee research and strategy development for material technologies across applications and production processes.
• Lead training and staff development on material trends and topics.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Training & mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Tools

SEM

XRD

BET

MLA

UV/Vis

TGA/DSC

ICP-MS

Job description

Research Science Management

Direct/Manage/Supervise engineers in the selection, qualification, testing, and failure analysis of materials and processes. Oversee research and strategy development regarding material technologies for various applications and production processes. Lead training and development for engineering staff on material-related trends and topics. Collaborate cross-functionally with design engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement teams to provide materials guidance and expertise. May specialize in polymer, metallurgical, ceramics, or other types of materials. Second-level manager. Manage the activities of first-level managers and/or supervisors. Responsible for hiring, firing, performance appraisals, and pay reviews. Broad knowledge of the field with proven leadership skills.

Job Summary

Research Science Management. Direct/Manage/Supervise engineers in the selection, qualification, testing, and failure analysis of materials and processes. Oversee research and strategy development regarding material technologies for various applications and production processes. Lead training and development for engineering staff on material-related trends and topics. Collaborate cross-functionally with design engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement teams to provide materials guidance and expertise. May specialize in polymer, metallurgical, ceramics, or other types of materials. Second-level manager. Manage the activities of first-level managers and/or supervisors. Responsible for hiring, firing, performance appraisals, and pay reviews. Broad knowledge of the field with proven leadership skills.

Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu

The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.

Responsibilities

• Technical Support & Equipment Oversight: Manage shared laboratory equipment in the MSE department, Materials Characterization Lab (MCL), SMART, and Crus Center facilities, including SEM, XRD, BET, MLA, UV/Vis, TGA/DSC, ICP-MS, electrokinetic analyzer, 3D printers, furnaces, crushing and grinding equipment, solution extraction and separation equipment, and autonomous laboratory equipment. Provide user training, develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), process samples for internal and external clients, and handle billing for equipment usage.
• Advanced Characterization & Research Support: Conduct high-level sample characterization and coordinate multi-technique analytical projects. Write technical reports summarizing results and project outcomes for clients. Collect, compare, and synthesize vendor quotes for equipment purchases and service contracts. Interact professionally with internal and external users and work to meet associated research needs.
• Instructional and Faculty Support: Support instructional labs by training TAs, students, and technicians operating in the center, preparing demonstrations, and maintaining teaching equipment. Collaborate with faculty on shared equipment use, potential donations, and long-term procurement planning.
• Laboratory Operations & Maintenance: Order supplies (e.g., gloves, gases) and maintain an updated chemical inventory. Oversee general housekeeping and lab upkeep. Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and basic repairs on instruments, including alignment, calibration, and component replacement. Coordinate vendor service visits and oversee contract maintenance.
• Safety & Compliance: Maintain a safe and compliant work environment in the MCL and Crus Center. Ensure all lab users complete required university EHS training and equipment-specific training. Develop, implement, and enforce safe laboratory procedures. Work with students and researchers to establish best practices and assist in drafting SOPs. Properly manage and dispose of hazardous waste.

Minimum Qualifications

EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

• Senior Manager, Research Science: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 8 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 6 years of directly related work experience.

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN45481B

Full Time or Part Time?

Full Time

Work Schedule Summary

Monday – Friday 8-5pm

Department

00067 - Material Science and Engineer

Location

Campus

Pay Rate Range

70,000-120,000

Close Date

11/30/2026