Laboratory Coordinator

Department: Industrial, Systems, & Manufacturing Engineering

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Range beginning at $22.02/hr, adjusted based on qualifications

Work Schedule: Flexible schedule except for class times, typically Thurs evenings & Fridays

Export Compliance Requirement: No export control requirement.

Job Story

Are you passionate about guiding future engineers and helping them bring their ideas to life? Do you thrive in a hands-on environment where teaching, problem-solving, and safety come together? We are looking for someone who will not only manage our lab but also mentor and inspire students to achieve their goals while emphasizing the importance of precision, planning, and safety.
You’ll play a key role in teaching students how to safely and effectively use manufacturing equipment. You’ll guide them through the process of creating term projects, showing them how to implement newer manufacturing technologies, and improve processes while emphasizing sequencing and execution.

Beyond technical expertise, you’ll serve as a mentor, offering thoughtful feedback and explaining why changes are needed in a way that deepens their understanding. Your ability to think analytically and plan thoroughly will not only ensure projects run smoothly but also foster a culture of safety and excellence.

If you’re someone who loves teaching, thrives in an environment of innovation, and has a talent for breaking down complex concepts, this role is your chance to make a real impact. Join us and help shape the future of engineering—one project, one student, and one discovery at a time.

The Industrial, Systems and Manufacturing Engineering Department is looking for an experienced machinist to serve as a full-time supervisor of the department's manufacturing lab.

Job Summary

Prepares laboratory facility(s) for research projects and instruction. Instructs laboratory participants in the proper use of equipment, experiment design and research documentation.

Essential Functions

Coordinates the acquisition, setup and maintenance of laboratory equipment and materials for new and/or ongoing research instruction and experiments. Provides instruction and demonstrations to faculty, staff and students in the safe use of facilities and equipment, may include curriculum development. Coordinates scheduling of space and equipment for research, instruction, and/or other functions. Procures, builds, transports, operates and maintains computer and/or laboratory equipment and procedural materials. Provides experiment and/or research status reports as requested in collaboration with senior researchers, teachers, students, and/or outside agencies. May hire and train students in the lab(s).

Job Duties

This person will supervise safe use of the labs, teach engineering students hands-on lab modules in manufacturing processes, guide students’ work on term projects in these courses, keep the lab operational and updated, and machine prototype research setups. The responsibilities include preparing machines and materials required for conducting lab classes, teaching the safe operation of various machines, supervision and enforcement of safe work following lab rules, grading lab work, keeping machines, tools, and instruments in good working order, and updating them as required. Setting up, programming, and operating CNC machines.

Required Education and Experience:

• 60 hours of college coursework in related field
• One (1) year of experience in laboratory or related field

Required License/Certifications/Training:

None

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of safety procedures in manufacturing laboratories/machine shop.
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and supervision.
• Ability to perform related duties for installation, operation, and troubleshooting for laboratory equipment.
• Good oral and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Five years of experience in setting up, programming, and operating CNC machines.
• Preference will be given to candidates with additional relevant education, and experience in the following: teaching/training, job shop supervision, prototype development using a variety of machines, CMM programming, and 5-axis mill-turn machining.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to remain in a stationary position. Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information. Ability to use tools, equipment, and technology necessary to do the job. This includes dexterity in instrument manipulation. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators. Ability to move, transport, and/or deliver items, supplies, or equipment.

Additional Physical Requirement: