Laboratory Manager, Skilled Trades

Position Description

Pay Grade: Coordinator 8

This position is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations, maintenance, safety, and instructional readiness of multiple instructional lab environments, including Welding, Plumbing, Electrical, and other skilled trades disciplines. This role supports teaching and learning by ensuring equipment is operational, labs are safe and organized, and faculty and students have the resources they need for high-impact instruction. The Laboratory Manager also plays a key role in supporting the planning and implementation of future lab expansions and new equipment installations.

Responsibilities and Duties (*Essential Functions)

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described.

• Manages instructional labs and equipment across Skilled Trades programs (e.g., HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry).
• Supports faculty by preparing lab spaces and equipment before and after instructional sessions.
• Develops and maintains a preventive maintenance schedule for lab equipment.
• Maintains lab safety and compliance protocols (e.g., Lockout/Tagout procedures, eyewash stations, PPE, safety signage).
• Implements and upholds 5S organizational standards (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) to maintain a clean, efficient, and safe lab environment.
• Manages tools, equipment, and supply inventory, including check-in/check-out systems for portable items such as laptops and toolkits.
• Monitors inventory levels and usage trends; creates and submits procurement requests; collaborates with administrative staff to ensure timely purchasing and delivery.
• Provides regular updates to Program Directors and Deans regarding lab needs, usage metrics, and equipment status.

Trains new instructors on lab safety, equipment usage, and standard operational procedures.

Performs minor repairs, troubleshooting equipment, and basic maintenance; coordinates external vendor maintenance as needed.

Assists with the planning and implementation of lab expansions, technology integrations, and equipment commissioning.

Supervises student lab assistants as assigned.

Engages with students during open lab hours to ensure safe and proper equipment usage.

Provides instructor support for large projects and/or lab supervision when additional coverage is required.

Ensures ongoing compliance with institutional safety guidelines and maintains documentation as required.

Assists Lab Managers at other campus locations when additional support is required

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong knowledge of industrial safety protocols and lab maintenance best practices.

Excellent organizational, time-management, and multitasking skills.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students.

Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook; experience with inventory or maintenance tracking software is a plus.

Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills.

Detail-oriented with a commitment to safety, accuracy, and process improvement.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate degree in a related field and three (3) years of relevant lab or skilled trades experience OR

Bachelor's degree and one (1) year of relevant lab or skilled trades experience

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a technical or engineering-related field.

Experience working with HVAC, Electrical and Welding equipment and/or environments

Prior work experience in an academic lab or technical training environment.

OSHA 10 or 30 certification, or equivalent safety training.

Experience supervising student workers, interns, or technical assistants

As an equal employment opportunity employer, Wake Tech values our workforce. Wake Tech is committed to reaching students in every part of Wake County and rallying around them to go as far as their dreams, talents and resilience will take them. As an institution of higher education, we are committed to valuing the unique experiences of the Wake Tech community. We strive to be self-reflective of the kind of student body we represent and the culture we are building, and we care deeply about supporting each employee's professional growth.