On-Call, Assistant Lab Director

Santa Clara University•Santa Clara, CA

14d•Onsite

About The Position

This is an on-call, fixed-term position that will provide supplemental support for laboratory operations. The Assistant Lab Director will assist the Lab Director in managing externally funded engineering development and research programs. This includes managing facilities, acquiring and deploying equipment, coordinating team activities, task management and scheduling, organizing field deployments, project reporting, and proposal development. Systems engineering tasks involve managing requirements, interfaces, integration, documentation, test, and verification. The role also involves performing detailed engineering design, development, and testing of advanced robotic subsystems, with a focus on embedded computing/communications systems, mechatronic devices, and control systems. Development tasks will utilize modern tools such as Matlab, Solidworks, CAD, software IDEs, 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC equipment, and DAQ systems. Additionally, the position supports the Lab Director in tasks related to educational programs, student instruction, advising, mentoring, representing external partnerships, and supporting lab events. This role may also serve as supplemental support for other laboratory positions during vacancies.

Requirements

Knowledge of software-controlled electromechanical devices and systems in support of functional operation, maintenance, and development/execution of safety protocols.
Knowledge of software and embedded development tools, prototyping tools and processes, and laboratory equipment.
Knowledge of safety principles and protocols; ability to learn applicable Environmental Health and Safety regulations.
Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
Demonstrated computer/software skills relating to engineering design and equipment operation, to include 3D printers, laser cutters, hand and power tools, 2.5D and table top CNC.
Demonstrated embedded system design, programming, and test skills.
Ability to multitask, initiate and prioritize work, and exercise sound judgment.
Ability to supervise diverse laboratory users and student employees.
Ability to use tools and shop equipment.
Commitment to understand and support Santa Clara University’s distinctive Jesuit education vision and willingness to model institutional values of competence, conscience, and compassion, in pursuit of its mission and goals.

Nice To Haves

B.S degree preferred, in natural science, engineering, or related field and laboratory experience. Practical experience may serve as an equivalent preparation.
One or more years of total experience in industrial internship settings is desired and/or one or more years of experience developing software and embedded systems for robotic applications.

Responsibilities

Assist Lab Director in managing externally funded engineering development and research programs.
Manage facilities, acquire and deploy equipment, coordinate team activities, task management and scheduling, organize field deployments, project reporting, and proposal development.
Perform systems engineering tasks including managing requirements, interfaces, integration, documentation, test, and verification.
Perform detailed engineering design, development, and test of advanced robotic subsystems, with an emphasis on embedded computing/communications systems, mechatronic devices and control systems.
Utilize modern analysis tools (e.g., Matlab, Solidworks), design environments (e.g., CAD, software IDEs), prototyping and manufacturing tools (3D printers, laser cutters, CNC equipment), and test equipment (DAQ systems).
Support the Lab Director in tasks relating to supporting educational programs, instruction/advising/mentoring students, serving as a representative for external partnerships, and supporting Lab events and activities.
Serve as supplemental support for additional laboratory positions in times of vacancy.
Direct the work of students relating to embedded systems development and/or software development on robotic systems laboratory projects.
Assist with supervision of student teams in Robotic Systems Laboratory project spaces.
Recommend initiatives and implement changes to improve quality and services.
Identify and determine the cause of problems, and develop and present recommendations for improvement of established processes and practices.
Maintain contact with laboratory users and solicit feedback for improved services.
Maximize productivity through the use of appropriate tools, planned training, and performance initiatives.
Research and develop resources that create timely and efficient workflow.
Prepare progress reports, inform supervisor of project status and deviations from goals, and ensure completeness, accuracy, and timeliness of all operational functions.
Prepare and submit reports as requested and required.
Develop and implement guidelines to support the functions of the unit.