Energy Sciences Laboratory Manager

About the role

We are looking for a dynamic Lab Manager to support the Energy Sciences directorates at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. SLAC’s Energy Sciences Directorate includes five scientific divisions, addressing critical scientific challenges from studying chemical reactions at femtosecond timescales to advancing energy technology. This role involves managing dynamic, multi-PI labs with substantial cross-functional interaction with Environment, Safety and Health (ESH), Facilities, and other departments. SLAC requires onsite work for this position.

Responsibilities

• Ensure day-to-day functioning of the Division laboratories in coordination with division leadership, PIs, scientists, postdocs, and students.
• Participate in creating strategic plans for future laboratory needs in consultation with PIs and department leadership.
• Consult and collaborate with PIs and leadership to plan and allocate lab space for current and future research needs.
• Administer and prepare complex budgets involving multiple funding sources.
• Work closely with the ESH coordinator to develop and direct lab-specific safety programs, including access policies, orientation training, and operational protocols.
• Provide laboratory orientation training to workers.
• Assist in developing experiment-specific standard operating procedures (SOPs) that address hazards and controls; verify researcher knowledge and adherence to SOPs.
• Release work in accordance with SLAC Work Planning and Control guidelines and hazard-specific ESH requirements.
• Coordinate with ESH and workers to manage chemicals, hazardous or radioactive materials, and waste streams; perform routine inspections with lab waste custodians.
• Develop and oversee equipment-specific training and protocols, including specialized equipment use and advanced techniques.
• Provide oversight for laboratory procurement of equipment, hazardous materials, and services, ensuring adherence to SLAC policies.
• Ensure proper maintenance of laboratory equipment, hazard control ventilation systems, and emergency equipment, coordinating with internal and external vendors.
• Perform inspections and walkthroughs to assess laboratory policies and solicit feedback from workers.
• Coordinate laboratory moves, upgrades, or renovations with the building manager.
• Oversee operation and management of assigned research and teaching facilities.
• Plan and determine equipment needs, authorize purchases, and manage installation in collaboration with facilities staff.
• Evaluate and strategically determine equipment upgrade/replacement options based on technological advances and future needs.
• Negotiate, select, and monitor complex equipment service contracts and warranties.
• Design and implement renovation plans for equipment and facilities; manage complex laboratory moves.
• Oversee and administer health and safety programs, ensuring compliance and liaising with university health and safety offices.
• Direct the work of other staff, including supervision, hiring, promotions, and terminations; determine staffing needs and ensure efficient utilization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and five years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant experience.
• Understanding of academic research facility needs.
• General background in a discipline related to the work of specific lab(s).
• Demonstrated experience managing multiple large budgets.
• Knowledge and experience in managing facilities, operations, maintenance, space, and equipment administration in a research or teaching setting.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to coordinate and manage multiple projects in a complex and technical environment.
• Familiarity with health and safety compliance regulations.
• Demonstrated supervisory experience.

Pay

Expected pay range for this position is $120,000 - $150,000 per annum.