Proto-Lab and Testbed Manager, Research Administration

Salary: $85,000.00 - $90,000.00 Annually
Location : Missoula Mountain Campus
Job Type: Contract Professional Full-time
Job Number:
Department: Research Administration, University of Montana
Opening Date: 10/20/2026
Closing Date: 11/3/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
FLSA: Exempt

Description
The University of Montana invites applications for a Proto-Lab and Testbed Manager. The Proto-Lab and Testbed Manager oversees the daily operations, safety, maintenance, and development of the UM Proto-Lab while facilitating access to the Headwaters Tech Hub - Autonomous Smart Systems and Integrated Sensor Testbeds (HTH-ASSIST) network across Montana. This position has a dual focus: providing hands-on technical support for prototype development and engaging entrepreneurs, industry partners, and researchers in real-world testing and validation through the testbed network.

The Proto-Lab and Testbed Manager 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. The position also maintains fabrication equipment, develops educational and outreach opportunities, and coordinates mobile testbed operations, including the deployment of equipment and testing materials to sites throughout Montana. Testing activities may support a range of industries and applications, including utilities, transportation, drone-based airspace awareness, mining, agriculture, and forestry. Through these efforts, the manager advances innovation, experiential learning, technology development, and collaboration among university and external partners.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage Proto-Lab operations by maintaining a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory and developing standard operating procedures, safety protocols, training materials, and equipment certification processes.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair fabrication equipment.
• Train users on equipment and software and assist with prototype fabrication, proof-of-concept development, design iteration, testing, and validation.
• Coordinate statewide Critical Infrastructure Testbed (CIT) engagements.
• Coordinate mobile testing operations by transporting and deploying equipment and materials for off-site testing throughout Montana and complying with site-specific safety, personal protective equipment, orientation, and controlled-access requirements.
• 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.

Minimum Qualifications

• 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 the ability to obtain) and willingness to travel occasionally to testbed sites across Montana.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.

Additional Information
Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.

Screening of applications will begin after the closing date; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. Complete applications received by the closing date will be guaranteed consideration.

To apply, please upload the following materials:

• Letter of Interest - addressing the stated required skills for the position
• Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
• Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information

The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of "mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.