Proto-Lab and Testbed Manager, Research Administration

University of Montana•Missoula Mountain Campus, MT

About The Position

The University of Montana invites applications for a Proto-Lab and Testbed Manager in Research Administration. The position oversees the daily operations, safety, maintenance, and development of the UM Proto-Lab and facilitates access to the Headwaters Tech Hub – Autonomous Smart Systems and Integrated Sensor Testbeds (HTH-ASSIST) network across Montana. The manager provides hands-on technical support for prototype development and engages entrepreneurs, industry partners, and researchers in real-world testing and validation through the testbed network. The position supports students, faculty, researchers, entrepreneurs, industry partners, and community members through technical consultation, training, and applied support in rapid prototyping, digital fabrication, and product development. It also maintains fabrication equipment, develops educational and outreach opportunities, and coordinates mobile testbed operations, including transporting and deploying equipment and testing materials to locations throughout Montana. Testing may support utilities, transportation, drone-based airspace awareness, mining, agriculture, and forestry. These efforts advance innovation, experiential learning, technology development, and collaboration among university and external partners. This is a full-time, 1.0 FTE position with a Letter of Appointment. It includes a comprehensive benefits package with an insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Industrial Technology, Manufacturing, Product Design, Engineering Technology, Industrial Design, or a related technical field; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
Experience operating digital fabrication equipment.
Excellent organizational, project management, and time management skills.
Strong communication and customer service skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team while managing multiple priorities.
Strong troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair skills.
Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
Willingness to travel occasionally to testbed sites across Montana.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience with laser cutting, additive manufacturing (3D printing), and digital fabrication.
Experience using CAD modeling and slicing software.
Knowledge of fabrication materials and manufacturing processes.
Experience with soldering, electronics assembly, and basic electrical wiring.
Experience with robotics, drones, autonomous systems, mechatronics, or automation.
Experience programming microcontrollers such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or ESP32.
Experience with sensors, motors, actuators, and embedded systems.
Experience managing makerspaces, fabrication laboratories, or research facilities.
Knowledge of product development, design thinking, entrepreneurship, or technology commercialization.
Experience supervising student employees, interns, or technical staff.
Experience supporting grant-funded research or sponsored projects.
Experience with utility, energy, or critical infrastructure sectors.

Responsibilities

Manage Proto-Lab operations and maintain a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory.
Develop standard operating procedures, safety protocols, training materials, and equipment certification processes.
Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair fabrication equipment.
Train users on equipment and software.
Assist with prototype fabrication, proof-of-concept development, design iteration, testing, and validation.
Coordinate statewide Critical Infrastructure Testbed (CIT) engagements.
Coordinate mobile testing operations, including transporting and deploying equipment and materials for off-site testing throughout Montana.
Comply with site-specific safety, personal protective equipment, orientation, and controlled-access requirements during off-site testing.
Promote Proto-Lab and HTH-ASSIST testbed services and support entrepreneurs, industry partners, and researchers with prototype validation, applied research, and technology development.
Deliver workforce development training and hands-on learning opportunities for students and trainees across ASSIST testbed sites.
Develop and maintain collaborative partnerships with university departments, research institutes, technology transfer organizations, industry, and community.