Lab Management Specialist II

Rice University Minimal Template External Career Site•Houston, TX

2d•$63,100 - $75,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Materials Science and NanoEngineering is seeking an experienced Lab Management Specialist II to provide specialized instructional laboratory technical services and support to faculty and students. The Lab Management Specialist II will be responsible for managing the operational, instructional, and administrative activities in teaching laboratories as well as providing technical support in the design and fabrication of experimental hardware. The Lab Management Specialist II will also provide course instruction on the operation of a wide variety of manual and computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine tools, manual and power hand tools, metrology, wood shop tools and machinery, metal machining (including manual and CNC milling and turning), and welding. This role will administer written and practical exams to evaluate student proficiency and knowledge of safety protocols. This position requires extensive experience with a variety of machine shop tools and equipment, as well as experience in reading schematics/blueprints, and the ability to interpret an end product from an idea. The ideal candidate will have the ability to collaborate with faculty to support and enhance the education of students in Materials Science and NanoEngineering.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted
2+ years of related experience in lab management
Excellent organizational, time management, and verbal and written communication skills
Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
Attention to detail; ability to be proactive and take initiative
Ability to work in a collaborative environment
Excellent analytical skills
Knowledge of analytical laboratory equipment

Nice To Haves

Experience working with engineering or materials science students and faculty in instructional and research laboratory environments
Experience managing laboratory logistics, including inventory control, purchasing, vendor coordination, service contracts, and maintenance schedules
Experience with laboratory safety programs, including chemical hygiene plans, standard operating procedures (SOPs), hazard assessments, and safety training
Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, service-oriented mindset
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple teaching and shared-use labs simultaneously
Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, wiring diagrams, schematics, and equipment documentation
Proficiency with computer software and hardware, including instrument control software, data acquisition systems, and standard productivity tools
Knowledge of safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials, including solvents, polymers, nanomaterials, powders, and compressed gases
Strong hands-on ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and coordinate repair of scientific instruments and lab infrastructure (mechanical, electrical, vacuum, and software-related issues)
Proficiency in operating and supporting materials science laboratory equipment, such as: X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and sample preparation tools, Thermal and thermophysical characterization instruments (DSC, TGA, DMA, thermal conductivity systems), Mechanical testing systems (tensile, compression, DMA), Surface and structural characterization tools (profilometry, optical microscopy)
Familiarity with chemical laboratory infrastructure, including: Fume hoods, glove boxes (inert atmosphere systems), gas delivery systems, and vacuum systems, Chemical storage, waste handling, and environmental health & safety (EHS) compliance

Responsibilities

Manage MSNE teaching laboratory spaces and shared instructional facilities, including oversight of equipment setup, operation, maintenance, and upgrades
Coordinate and oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, ensuring reliability, safety, and readiness for instructional use
Develop, maintain, and update laboratory procedures, SOPs, and safety documentation
Serve as a primary point of contact for instrument troubleshooting, coordinating in-house fixes and external service support as needed
Manage laboratory budgets, purchasing, inventory, and service contracts
Procure chemicals, consumables, parts, and equipment in compliance with university and safety regulations
Oversee and promote laboratory safety, chemical hygiene, and routine lab organization and cleanliness
Support faculty and instructors in the implementation of teaching labs, including preparation, setup, takedown, and continuous improvement
Train and supervise students, teaching assistants, and research staff on proper laboratory practices, safety, and basic instrument operation
Maintain accurate records for equipment usage, maintenance, safety training, and inspections
Perform other duties as assigned in support of MSNE instructional and laboratory missions
Manage the operational, instructional, and administrative activities of MSNE teaching laboratories
Ensure all teaching labs remain fully functional, compliant, and inspection-ready at all times
Assist faculty in specifying, evaluating, and commissioning new laboratory and characterization equipment
Diagnose problems and facilitate repair or replacement of scientific instruments, lab infrastructure, and computer workstations used for instruction
Coordinate with EHS, Facilities, IT, and external vendors to support lab operations
Enforce safety requirements and promote a strong culture of safety among students and instructors
Provide hands-on instruction to students in teaching labs on: Safe operation of materials characterization equipment, Sample preparation techniques, Basic data collection and instrument best practices
Construct, adapt, or modify specialized laboratory setups or fixtures to support instructional experiments
Serve as the primary contact for teaching-lab-related issues, including troubleshooting, scheduling conflicts, and resolution of operational challenges
Work closely with faculty, advisors, and academic support staff to facilitate student success in laboratory-based courses