Prove-Out Operations and Industry Engagement Manager*G2007393

Pittsburg State University is accepting applications for a Prove-Out Operations and Industry Engagement Manager in the department of Research and Innovation that is responsible for the overall operation, maintenance, and strategic utilization of the Prove-Out facilities within the National Institute for Materials Advancement. This role ensures a safe, efficient, and compliant environment that supports applied research, pilot-scale production, prototyping, and industry collaboration. In addition to facility operations, this position plays a critical role in industry engagement, client development, and revenue-generating activities. The Manager serves as a key liaison between university researchers, industry partners, government agencies, and external clients to expand facility utilization and support innovation and commercialization efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities

Facility Operations and Management - 40% 

• Oversees daily operations of Prove-Out facilities, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and process utility systems 

• Conducts routine inspections to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance 

• Coordinates preventive maintenance and repairs with internal staff and contractors 

• Maintains compliance with university policies and OSHA/regulatory standards 

• Manages facility access, safety systems, and operational readiness 

• Maintains records of maintenance, equipment, and facility usage 

• Supports setup and coordination of pilot-scale and demonstration activities 

Research, Pilot Operations, and Industry Engagement - 30% 

• Identifies and pursues opportunities to increase facility utilization and revenue generation 

• Supports applied research and pilot-scale operations in collaboration with researchers and partners 

• Assists with installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of specialized equipment 

• Develops and maintains relationships with industry partners and external clients 

• Promotes facility capabilities to support R&D, prototyping, and scale-up activities 

• Supports development of sponsored projects, fee-for-service work, and client engagements 

Project and Capital Improvement Management - 20% 

• Manages facility renovation, infrastructure upgrades, and equipment installation projects  

• Develops project scopes, budgets, and schedules 

• Coordinates with engineers, architects, contractors, and stakeholders 

• Ensures projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget 

• Supports planning of future facility capabilities and expansions 

Other Duties as assigned – 10% 

• Performs additional responsibilities as delegated to support the mission and strategic goals of the division and university 

Education and Experience

Required Education and Experience - Time of Hire

• Bachelor's degree in science, engineering, engineering technology, industrial technology, business, facilities management, or a related field

• One year of experience in research, manufacturing, pilot-scale, industrial, laboratory, or facility operations

• Demonstrated ability to coordinate projects, operations, or technical activities

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, engineering technology, industrial technology, business, facilities management, or related field. This degree requirement ensures candidates possess the advanced theoretical knowledge, highly specialized methodologies, and critical problem-solving skills fundamental to this work. These competencies are typically developed and rigorously validated only through the comprehensive curriculum and intensive experiential experience inherent in a formal degree program. 

Preferred Education and Experience

• Master's degree in science, engineering, engineering technology, industrial technology, facilities management, business, or a related field

• One year of experience managing projects involving budgets, contractors, equipment installation, or capital improvements

• One year of experience with installation, commissioning, operation, or troubleshooting of specialized research, manufacturing, or pilot-scale equipment

• Experience working with industry partners, external clients, or sponsored research projects

• Experience with facility operations, maintenance, safety, or regulatory compliance

• Experience supporting applied research, product development, prototyping, or technology commercialization

• Knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe laboratory or industrial work practices

License or Certification Required by Statute or Regulation

• Valid Driver’s License

Screening Services (Background Checks): Your employment with Pittsburg State University is contingent on a satisfactory criminal background and sex offender check.

Salary Range: Commensurate with Experience

Job Type: Unclassified

Appointment Duration: 12 months

Work Schedule: Full Time, Monday – Friday, weekends as needed, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM, evenings as needed

Application Documents Required*:

• Resume

• Cover Letter

• Names and Contact Details for three (3) Professional References

• Transcript

*Consolidate into two documents to upload.

Open Until Filled.

Search Committee Chair: Mary Louise Widmar, mwidmar@pittstate.edu

Visa Sponsorship is available for this position.

PSU will only accept applications submitted through this process.

Pittsburg State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a respectful and supportive environment for all employees.