Lab Coordinator Mechanical Engineering, Penn State Berks

Position Overview Engineering Lab Coordinator (mechanical) at Penn State Berks supports students, faculty, and staff in academic and research activities under faculty supervision. Responsibilities Assist students during laboratory sessions, fieldwork, academic and research projects; evaluate project feasibility; schedule and prepare labs with faculty; provide class coverage and exam proctoring. Ensure lab safety, security, and operational efficiency; develop and enforce procedures in alignment with Penn State policies and General Manufacturing Practices. Act as the laboratory safety officer; maintain compliance with safety regulations; coordinate with university compliance officers; manage calibration and maintenance of equipment; maintain documentation. Oversee operation of manufacturing equipment in instructional and research labs; provide technical support to faculty, students, and technicians. Collaborate with industry partners and Penn State Berks stakeholders to support the development of engineering programs and initiatives. Assist faculty and researchers with experiments; recommend and specify equipment and supplies; conduct cost comparisons for procurement. Manage lab inventory, purchasing, maintenance, and vendor relations; ensure competitive pricing and accurate recordkeeping. Maintain documentation including reports, logbooks, test procedures, and policy records. Qualifications Experience in creating prototypes. Certification(s) in Lathe and Mill operation, CAD and CAM desirable. Proficiency in setting up, operating, and programming CNC and manual machining equipment, including lathes, mills, drill presses, welding tools, laser cutters, and sheet metal fabrication tools. Minimum 1+ year(s) of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Bachelor's Degree required. Background Checks/Clearances Employment will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. and Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Salary & Benefits The salary range for this position is $51,000.00 - $74,000.00. Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time), and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children. EEO Statement Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr