Innovation Lab Assistant

Regular, ongoing full-time position (1.0 FTE) based in Portland, Oregon.

About the role

The Innovation Lab Assistant supports the daily operations, instructional activities, and overall experience of the Sports Product Management (SPM) Innovation Lab. Reporting to the Innovation Lab Manager, this role works closely with faculty, staff, and students to provide hands-on assistance with equipment, facilitate demonstrations, and maintain a safe, organized, and fully operational lab environment.

The position plays a key role in supporting student learning by reinforcing lab best practices, assisting with coursework and projects, and encouraging experimentation and skill development. In addition, the Innovation Lab Assistant helps ensure readiness for classes, events, and tours, while delivering a welcoming and professional experience to all lab users, including students, staff, industry partners, and visitors.

Working hours may vary throughout the year based on program and lab needs and may include evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Support daily operations and instructional activities in the SPM Innovation Lab.
• Provide hands-on assistance with lab equipment and facilitate demonstrations.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and fully operational lab environment.
• Assist students with coursework, projects, and skill development.
• Ensure lab readiness for classes, events, and tours.
• Deliver a welcoming and professional experience to lab users, including industry partners and visitors.
• Advance and support the mission of the department and university through daily work.
• Maintain a safety-conscious work environment.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent and at least two years of relevant experience (paid or volunteer) supporting community programs that serve children, youth, or adults, or Associate Degree and one year of work experience (paid or volunteer) in youth development programs, adult education, teaching, program delivery, or related functions.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work with diverse audiences.
• Skill in using computers for word processing, data management, and communications.
• Working knowledge of footwear, apparel, and equipment prototyping, including use of machinery and techniques across the product creation process from concept to production.
• Knowledge of construction methods, materials, and graphic application processes.
• Familiarity with innovation lab equipment and standard operating procedures.
• Knowledge of the sports product industry product development process.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to frequent interruptions.
• High ethical standards and professionalism in all interactions.
• Excellent customer service skills, with the ability to remain composed and effective in fast-paced or stressful situations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design, Footwear Design, Industrial Design, or a related design discipline.
• Three years of experience in product creation, product development, or a related field.
• Previous experience in a higher education institution.

Pay

$20.19 - $30.11 per hour.

Benefits

The University of Oregon offers a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. More information about benefits.