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Fab Lab Manager Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Fab Lab Manager information

What is a fab manager?

A Fab Lab Manager oversees the operations of a fabrication laboratory, coordinating equipment, safety protocols, and project workflows. They often require technical skills in digital fabrication tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines, as well as management and safety training. The role involves maintaining equipment, supporting users, and ensuring a productive environment for innovation and learning.

What does a Fab Lab Manager do?

A Fab Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a Fabrication Laboratory (Fab Lab), ensuring that equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines are maintained and accessible. They provide training, supervise users, and support innovation by assisting with design and prototyping. Additionally, they manage inventory, enforce safety protocols, and often collaborate on educational or community projects. Their role bridges technology, education, and creativity to foster hands-on learning and development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fab Lab Manager position, and why are they important?

A successful Fab Lab Manager requires strong technical expertise in digital fabrication, prototyping, and equipment maintenance, typically supported by experience in engineering, design, or a related field. Familiarity with 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and knowledge of safety protocols and makerspace management systems is essential. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and teaching skills help them effectively support users and foster a collaborative environment. These abilities are crucial for ensuring lab safety, maximizing resource utilization, and nurturing innovation among diverse users.

How much do laboratory managers make in the US?

Laboratory managers in the US typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. In specialized settings like fabrication labs or tech environments, salaries can be higher, especially with relevant certifications and technical skills.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Fab Lab Manager?

A Fab Lab Manager's daily responsibilities often include maintaining and troubleshooting digital fabrication equipment, overseeing lab safety protocols, and providing technical assistance or training to lab users. They also manage inventory of materials and tools, coordinate schedules for classes or group projects, and may develop workshops or community outreach initiatives. Collaboration with faculty, students, and external partners is common to support multidisciplinary innovation and learning. This dynamic role requires adaptability and strong organizational skills to ensure the smooth operation of the lab each day.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, senior roles such as Laboratory Director or Chief Scientific Officer typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they oversee laboratory operations, research, and compliance.

Is lab manager a stressful job?

A lab manager role can be stressful due to responsibilities such as overseeing equipment, managing staff, and ensuring safety protocols. The level of stress often depends on the size of the lab, workload, and deadlines, but strong organizational and communication skills help manage these pressures.
What are the most commonly searched types of Fab Lab jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Fab Lab jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Fab Lab Manager jobs in Ohio? For Fab Lab Manager jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fab Lab Manager jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Fab Lab Manager jobs in Ohio are:
Part Time Laboratory Instructional Assistant Fab Lab

Part Time Laboratory Instructional Assistant Fab Lab

Lorain County Community College (LCCC)

Elyria, OH • On-site

Part-time

Posted 24 days ago


Lorain County Community College rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

415th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Lorain County Community College (LCCC) is hiring a Part-Time Fab Lab Laboratory Instructional Assistant (LIA).  The LCCC Super Fab Lab is a digital maker space that is part of a global network.  The Fab Lab enables users to create physical objects directly from digital designs using computer-controlled tools. The lab offers lasers for cutting & engraving, vinyl cutters, CNC routers, 3D printers, electronics workbenches, and more. It serves a diverse user base through courses, open lab hours that are available to the public, camps, workshops, and community outreach activities.

Reporting to the Coordinator(s) of the Fab Lab, the LIA will be responsible for, but not limited to: 

  • Inspire, train, and support users of all ages and experience levels during credit courses, open lab, and other lab related activities.
  • Assess user needs and adapt instruction to support their learning of the tools, software, and fabrication processes.
  • Enforce lab policies, safety protocols, and standard operating procedures.
  • Foster a safe, fair, friendly, and creative environment. 
  • Help maintain the cleanliness, organization, and security of the lab.
  • Assist with lab setup, including preparing equipment, software, tools, and materials for all scheduled activities.
  • Provide tours, participate in community outreach, and work on projects as needed.
  • Help develop and refine lab activities, workshops, and camp programming.
  • Support equipment/software maintenance, inventory management and material ordering.
  • Contribute to project management and documentation efforts.

Required Qualifications:

  • Availability to work flexible hours, including days, evenings, and Saturdays.
  • Basic computer proficiency, including familiarity with Windows OS, file management, and word processing.
  • Ability to learn and operate digital fabrication equipment and associated software.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills, especially in a diverse, educational setting.
  • Capable of working independently and as part of a team.
  • Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of identifying tasks beyond assigned duties.
  • Patient, persistent, and solutions-oriented with strong organizational abilities.
  • Comfortable multitasking in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Engineering, Technology, Industrial Design).
  • Experience with digital fabrication tools (laser cutters, CNC, 3D printers, etc.) and related software.
  • Prior teaching or instructional experience in a technical environment.
  • Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and soldering.

The application file should include: cover letter, current resume, Professional Statement (if applicable); unofficial transcripts (official transcripts will be required upon employment) and contact information for 3-4 professional references.  Incomplete files will not be considered. Candidate selected will be subject to appropriate background checks before hire.

About LCCC: 

Established in 1963, Lorain County Community College is the first community college in Ohio with a permanent campus. For six decades, LCCC has served the diverse needs of greater Lorain County region by providing affordable access to higher education and now serves approximately 13,000 students each year in certificate, associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs. 

Since 1963, one in four Lorain County residents have taken classes at LCCC and more than 43,000 have earned a degree. LCCC was recently ranked in the top 10% of most affordable colleges in the nation and more than 90% of LCCC graduates live and work in Northeast Ohio. 45% of Lorain County's high school graduates earn college credits through LCCC's high school dual enrollment programs. LCCC also partners with more than 700 employers and offers 170 industry-recognized credentials to better prepare the workforce for the future. 

LCCC is a dynamic, student-centered college intentionally designed to support individuals with balancing multiple roles on their path to college completion. 85% of LCCC students work while attending college, with majority working at least half-time. The average age of LCCC's students is 24, and many bring life experiences that include caring for dependents, serving in the military, or completing some prior college. Over 80% of LCCC students received financial assistance through grants and scholarships, and LCCC has been nationally recognized for holistic, fully integrated services and commitment to student success. 

Lorain County Community College seeks to hire and employ locally whenever possible.  Employees should reside in Ohio, where they can be responsive to on-campus work requirements, and within a reasonable commuting distance of their work location.


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