Lab Manager, Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering

Hiring Department:

Fariborz Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering

Position Open To:

All Applicants

Weekly Scheduled Hours:

40

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Earliest Start Date:

May 30, 2025

Position Duration:

Expected to Continue

Location:

UT MAIN CAMPUS

Job Details:

General Notes

As a top-10 engineering school with the No. 1 program in Texas, the Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin has been a global leader in technology innovation and engineering education for over a century. With 11 undergraduate and 13 graduate programs, over 20 research centers and a faculty community that boasts one of the highest numbers of National Academy of Engineering members among U.S. universities, Texas Engineering has launched some of the nation’s most accomplished leaders and pioneered world-changing solutions in virtually every industry, from space exploration to energy to health care. Situated in the heart of Austin — named “America’s Coolest City” by Expedia and “The Best Place to Live in the U.S.” by U.S. News and World Report — the Cockrell School embodies the city’s innovative spirit. Major companies with Austin campuses, such as Dell, ni, Apple, IBM, Samsung, Google and many others, continue to recruit Cockrell School students at a remarkable rate, launching thousands of successful careers and developing Texas Engineers into industry leaders.

Responsibilities

• Overall responsibility for managing daily operations of EWRE Analytical Service Center and teaching laboratories.
• Oversee EWRE Analytical Service Center instrument user training, scheduling and application of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for analysis of environmental samples by a range of instrumentation including LC/MS, IC/ICP/MS, GC/MS, GC, HPLC, TOC, and IC.
• Manage equipment and instrument life cycles including purchase, delivery, installation, training, method development, maintenance, troubleshooting, decommissioning, and disposal. Work with equipment manufacturer technical support to troubleshoot and repair lab equipment. Identify and pursue opportunities for continuous improvement in the lab.
• Manage EWRE teaching laboratory facilities by ensuring proper operation and functioning of equipment, appropriate cleaning and use of labs by faculty and teaching assistants, and assisting with ordering supplies for classes.  Maintain EWRE Service Center supplies and consumables.
• Develop and maintain Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) Standards to support lab operations including standard operating procedures (SOPs), document control, training programs, equipment maintenance schedules and maintenance records. Ensure compliance in the lab with UT Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) requirements for safety training, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and hazardous waste disposal. Conduct safety orientation for new students as needed.
• Work with finance team to develop and manage the budget, including instrument use rates, invoicing and expenses. Ensure efficient use of lab resources. Represent the lab in conferences, showcases, and other opportunities to market available services
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., environmental engineering, chemistry).
• Laboratory management experience, including budget management
• Method development and validation experience
• Experience in building and maintaining quality systems (standard operating procedures, document control, training programs, equipment management, etc.)

Salary Range

$80,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

Work is performed in an office and research lab environment.

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

Important for applicants who are NOT current university employees or contingent workers: You will be prompted to submit your resume the first time you apply, then you will be provided an option to upload a new Resume for subsequent applications. Any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) will be uploaded in the Application Questions section; you will be able to multi-select additional files. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded.  Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.

Important for Current university employees and contingent workers: As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. If you are a current University employee, log-in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left hand navigation menu and then update the sections in your Professional Profile before you apply. This information will be pulled in to your application. The application is one page and you will be prompted to upload your resume. In addition, you must respond to the application questions presented to upload any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) that were noted above.

Employment Eligibility:

Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.

Retirement Plan Eligibility:

The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.

Background Checks:

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Pay Transparency:

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

Employment Eligibility Verification:

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form.  You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States.  Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment.  Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.

E-Verify:

The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university’s company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:

• E-Verify Poster (English) [PDF]
• E-Verify Poster (Spanish) [PDF]
• Right To Work Poster (English) [PDF]
• Right To Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

Compliance:

Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.

Advertised: March 31, 2025
Applications close: Open until filled

JOB SUMMARY

The Lab Manager for the Microscopy & Histology Core Facility will perform the various tasks required for receiving, processing, and preparing research specimens for microscopic / histology examination, analysis, and scientific use by the client/end-user. This may include logging, batching, cutting, mounting, and staining procedures. Specimens received from research, surgical, diagnostic, and/or autopsy cases are sorted, logged, and prioritized according to the standards required. Reporting to and following the instructions of the Director of the core facility, the manager will coordinate the daily workflow of tasks and activities in the laboratory area concerning routine and special procedures.  This will include microscopy work and training. The Lab Manager will supervise the activities within the Microscopy and Histology core facility. This will include coordination and performance of all the various tasks required for the completion of all procedures.

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Technical Support

• Proficiency with microscopy techniques, including light microscopy (essential), confocal microscopy, and electron microscopy (desirable).
• Provide training to users on proper equipment use, imaging techniques, and data acquisition protocols.
• Knowledge of spatial biology applications such as RNAscope and GeoMX (highly desirable)
• Assist with histological sample preparation, including tissue processing, embedding, sectioning (paraffin and cryosectioning), and staining techniques (e.g., H&E, special stains, immunohistochemistry).
• Troubleshoot issues with instrumentation and assist with minor repairs or liaise with service engineers for maintenance.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of biological samples and hazardous materials in compliance with safety standards.
• Support data transfer, cloud storage, and analytical software.

Operational Management

• Manage day-to-day operations of the core facility, including scheduling, coordination of services, and tracking usage.
• Maintain an organized inventory of consumables, reagents, and supplies, placing orders as needed.
• Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for equipment and lab processes.
• Perform routine calibration and quality control checks on equipment to ensure accurate results.

User Support and Collaboration

• Collaborate with researchers to optimize protocols and provide technical assistance for specialized projects.
• Advise users on sample preparation, experiment design, and data interpretation.
• Ensure excellent customer service and timely delivery of results to core users.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records of lab activities, equipment usage, and service requests.
• Assist with billing and invoicing for core services and usage.
• Prepare reports on core activity, including usage metrics and performance indicators.
• Support grant applications and reports related to core operations and upgrades.

Training and Development

• Stay up-to-date on advances in microscopy and histology techniques and share knowledge with users and staff.
• Participate in professional development opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, and training sessions.

Working Conditions:

• Work primarily in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• May require occasional evening or weekend hours to support research needs or equipment repairs.
• Performs other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Proficiency in histological techniques, including tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining.
• Knowledge of imaging software.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for record-keeping and lab management.
• Excellent problem-solving skills for troubleshooting equipment and protocol issues.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for user interactions and training.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biomedical sciences, or a related field
• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in histology and/or microscopy. We are willing to train on histology skills.
• Experience with a variety of microscopy systems (e.g., confocal, fluorescence, light, or electron microscopy).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree
• Experience in a core facility or shared resource lab.
• Familiarity with compliance standards, including biosafety and chemical safety.
• Knowledge of cost recovery models and experience with service billing systems.

Function

Lab Support

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40

Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for the position applied for without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. We welcome and encourage applications from minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities (including disabled veterans). If accommodations are needed for completing the application and/or with the interviewing process, please contact Human Resources at 314-977-5847.

Job Summary

The Lab Manager for the Microscopy & Histology Core Facility will perform the various tasks required for receiving, processing, and preparing research specimens for microscopic / histology examination, analysis, and scientific use by the client/end-user. This may include logging, batching, cutting, mounting, and staining procedures. Specimens received from research, surgical, diagnostic, and/or autopsy cases are sorted, logged, and prioritized according to the standards required. Reporting to and following the instructions of the Director of the core facility, the manager will coordinate the daily workflow of tasks and activities in the laboratory area concerning routine and special procedures.  This will include microscopy work and training. The Lab Manager will supervise the activities within the Microscopy and Histology core facility. This will include coordination and performance of all the various tasks required for the completion of all procedures.

Job Duties

Technical Support

• Proficiency with microscopy techniques, including light microscopy (essential), confocal microscopy, and electron microscopy (desirable).
• Provide training to users on proper equipment use, imaging techniques, and data acquisition protocols.
• Knowledge of spatial biology applications such as RNAscope and GeoMX (highly desirable)
• Troubleshoot issues with instrumentation and assist with minor repairs or liaise with service engineers for maintenance.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of biological samples and hazardous materials in compliance with safety standards.
• Support data transfer, cloud storage, and analytical software.

Operational Management

• Manage some operations of the core facility.
• Maintain an organized inventory of consumables, reagents, and supplies, placing orders as needed.
• Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for equipment and lab processes.

User Support and Collaboration

• Collaborate with researchers to optimize protocols and provide technical assistance for specialized projects.
• Ensure excellent customer service and timely delivery of results to core users.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records of lab activities, equipment usage, and service requests.
• Assist with billing and invoicing for core services and usage.

Training and Development

• Stay up-to-date on advances in microscopy and histology techniques and share knowledge with users and staff.

Working Conditions:

• Work primarily in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• May require occasional evening or weekend hours to support research needs or equipment repairs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficiency in histological techniques, including tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining.
• Knowledge of imaging software.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for record-keeping and lab management.
• Excellent problem-solving skills for troubleshooting equipment and protocol issues.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for user interactions and training.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biomedical sciences, or a related field
• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in histology and microscopy.
• Experience with a variety of microscopy systems (e.g., confocal, fluorescence, light, or electron microscopy).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree
• Experience in a core facility or shared resource lab.
• Familiarity with compliance standards, including biosafety and chemical safety.
• Knowledge of cost recovery models and experience with service billing systems.

Function

Unclassified Positions

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40