Undergraduate Lab Manager

Princeton University; Princeton (NJ); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Princeton University is seeking an undergraduate lab manager to oversee the PQI teaching laboratory, manage equipment and purchasing, and train users. The role includes developing QCURE—a scalable, data-driven undergraduate research program aligned with an NSF-funded award—and collaborating with PQI faculty and trainees on research projects.

The position requires broad experimental quantum information processing knowledge and familiarity with qubit platforms, data analysis, and signal

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in engineering, physics, or a related technical field.
• Minimum five years of experience in project management, research administration, program management, scientific operations, or related field.
• Experience supporting fabrication, development, or operation of electronic, photonic, nano-scale, or other advanced technology systems.
• Knowledge of materials relevant to advanced research and technology development, such as silicon, III-V materials, diamond, 2D materials, superconductors.
• Familiarity with quantum information science, quantum computing, photonics, or related research fields.
• Understanding of data analysis, signal processing, or experimental measurement techniques in research environments.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities with deadlines.
• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical/non-technical audiences.
• Experience coordinating collaborative projects across groups and partners.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and tact.
• Experience using project management tools and processes.

Responsibilities

• Manage undergraduate teaching laboratory, including purchasing, equipment maintenance, and user training.
• Collaborate to develop QCURE—a scalable, data-driven undergraduate research program.
• Provide technical guidance on project-related initiatives with faculty and trainees.

Skills

Project management

Research administration

Data analysis

Communication

Multitasking

Independent work

Budgeting

Team collaboration

Detail-oriented

Stakeholder management

Education

Advanced degree in engineering/physics/materials

Tools

Project management tools

Job description

Overview

The Princeton Quantum Initiative (PQI) is looking for undergraduate lab manager to manage its undergraduate teaching laboratory and to oversee the creation of quantum teaching tools associated with an NSF-funded award. In addition, the lab manager is expected to work collaboratively with PQI faculty and trainees on research projects in their respective laboratories.

This position requires a broad understanding of experimental quantum information processing and experience with several qubit platforms, including single photons, nuclear spins (NMR), electron spins (NV centers in diamond), and superconducting qubits. In addition, knowledge of data analysis and signal processing techniques relevant for a wide range of quantum computing platforms is required.

This is a four-year term position with the possibility of renewal based on job performance and continued funding.

Responsibilities

• Management of undergraduate teaching laboratory, including purchasing, equipment maintenance, and user training.
• Collaborate with internal and external colleagues to develop Quantum Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (QCURE)—a scalable, data-driven, and open-access research program that transforms how students engage with quantum engineering.
• Partner with faculty to provide technical expertise and guidance on project-related initiatives.

Qualifications

Essential

• Advanced degree in engineering, physics, materials science, or a related technical field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in project management, research administration, program management, scientific operations, or a related field.
• Experience supporting the fabrication, development, or operation of electronic, photonic, nano-scale, or other advanced technology systems.
• Knowledge of materials relevant to advanced research and technology development, such as silicon, III-V materials, diamond, two-dimensional (2D) materials, superconductors, or related material platforms.
• Familiarity with quantum information science, quantum computing, semiconductor technologies, photonics, or related research fields.
• Understanding of data analysis, signal processing, or experimental measurement techniques applicable to scientific or engineering research environments.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously while meeting deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and take initiative with limited day-to-day supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain productive working relationships with diverse stakeholders across organizations and disciplines.
• Experience coordinating collaborative projects involving multiple groups, teams, or external partners.
• Proven ability to handle sensitive or confidential information with discretion, professionalism, diplomacy, and tact.
• Experience using project management tools, systems, or processes to track progress, coordinate activities, and monitor deliverables.

Preferred

• Experience supporting multidisciplinary research programs, federally funded research initiatives, or large-scale collaborative scientific projects.
• Demonstrated success collaborating across institutions, disciplines, and diverse research communities.
• Experience working in a higher education, research institute, national laboratory, or other research-intensive environment.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Standard Weekly Hours

36.25

Eligible for Overtime

No

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Probationary Period

180 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

No

Estimated Appointment End Date

11/2/2030

Physical Capacity Exam Required

No

Valid Driver’s License Required

No

Salary Range

$110,000 to $140,000