Senior Manager, Materials Engineering Management

University of Utah

Salt Lake City (UT)

On-site

USD 70,000 - 120,000

Full time

47 hours ago

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Job summary

University of Utah seeks a Senior Manager, Research Science to direct and supervise engineers in material testing and analysis, lead strategy for material technologies, and mentor staff across departments. The role involves cross-functional collaboration with design, manufacturing, QA, and procurement, with emphasis on leadership in polymer, metallurgical, ceramics, or other materials domains.

This is a senior-level management position.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree (or higher) in a related field and significant leadership experience.
Senior-level role; 8 years (bachelor) or 6 years (master) of related work experience required.
Experience directing laboratory operations and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

Plan, organize, and direct all aspects of department laboratory operations.
Provide high-quality technical support and services for internal and external users.
Train TAs, students, and technicians; supervise demonstrations and equipment use.
Oversee safety, compliance, and training programs in the lab.
Manage equipment maintenance, SOPs, and vendor relations.

Skills

Leadership

Team Management

Strategic Planning

Cross-functional Collaboration

Quality Assurance

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

SEM

XRD

BET

ICP-MS

3D Printers

Calibration

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

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.

Open Until Filled

Responsibilities

This position is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all aspects of department laboratory operations, ensuring high-quality technical support, training, and services for both internal and external users. The Materials Engineer Manager will act as a key liaison between the department, lab staff, faculty, and user community, supporting research, teaching, and service missions of the department as well as other duties as assigned.

The day-to-day responsibilities will include:

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.

Job Details