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Req Id: 42727
Job Title: Laboratory Coordinator
City: West Lafayette
Job Summary
Help power the discoveries, innovations, and hands-on learning experiences that define Purdue Engineering. The Laboratory Coordinator in the School of Materials Engineering serves in a lead capacity for the daily operations of supporting teaching and research laboratories and a senior technical staff member collectively supporting our undergraduate students and graduate researchers. This position at times will coordinate the work of laboratory support staff, assigning daily tasks, reviewing completed work for quality and safety compliance, and providing ongoing performance feedback and training. The role works closely with colleagues focused on safety and advanced instrumentation, instructors for undergraduate laboratory courses, faculty research groups, and undergraduate students. The overall responsibility is to keep our equipment operating safely; establish and ensure laboratory procedures and standards; assist with the planning, design, and installation of new systems; and guide researchers in the effective use of those tools and systems. The position serves as the recognized subject matter expert for laboratory equipment, systems, and processes within the School. The role provides insight into best practices and safety protocols requiring creativity and patience to provide an environment in which research can be done safely and be enriching to all participants.
This position offers a chance to make a meaningful impact at a prestigious institution known for innovation and research excellence. Join our community of lifelong learners and contribute your skills to this critical program. At Purdue, you'll find unrivaled pride and unlimited potential as we persistently pursue the next giant leap together. Take the next step in your career journey - apply now to help build a better world at Purdue University.
What You'll Be Doing:
LEAD DAILY LABORATORY OPERATIONS — coordinate, prioritize, and collaborate equipment maintenance tasks and laboratory setup activities; at time delegate work to two junior lab support staff and review their completed work for quality and compliance; ensure all labs are operationally ready for scheduled classes and research activities
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE — perform and lead preventive maintenance, calibrate equipment, and repair equipment; assist in establishing preventive-maintenance schedules and standards for the laboratory team
TRAIN, MENTOR, AND EVALUATE JUNIOR STAFF — provide ongoing hands-on training to junior laboratory support staff on equipment operation, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols; review and approve their work products; provide input on performance evaluations
ASSISTING GRAD STUDENTS WITH PROJECTS
TRAINING STUDENTS ON SAWS, FURNACES, BELT GRINDERS, HOT PRESSES, ETC — develop and maintain standardized training protocols used across all labs
ASSISTING SENIOR DESIGN STUDENTS WITH PROJECTS
ASSISTING LAB CLASSES
ORDERING APPROPRIATE PARTS FOR REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE — manage laboratory supply budget and approve purchases within delegated authority
INSTALLATION OF NEW EQUIPMENT — lead the planning, specification, and installation of new systems; make recommendations to faculty on equipment selection
About Us:
The College of Engineering at Purdue University is among the best and largest Engineering schools in the world. With nearly 16,000 engineering students and more than 500 tenure track faculty in the college, this position has ample opportunity to have an impact at one of the world’s most influential universities.
For more information about our department, please visit:
College of Engineering, Purdue University https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr
External Recognitions Program https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr/People/Awards
College of Engineering's Social Media https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr/AboutUs/social
What We're Looking For:
Education and Experience:
HS Diploma
Four (4) years relevant work experience (some combination of design/ordering/repair/maintenance of pumps, motors, furnaces, gas and water lines, etc.).
Skills needed:
Advanced knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems.
Plumbing of air, gas, and water lines.
Preventive maintenance.
Basic design.
Demonstrated ability to mentor, delegate to, and review the work of other laboratory staff.
People skills and patience to work with students, staff, and faculty.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to influence others outside the department regarding laboratory practices and procedures.
Strong commitment to the advancement of scientific research.
Who We Are:
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Additional Information:
Purdue’s benefits summary https://www.purdue.edu/hr/Benefits/
Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
A background check will be required for employment in this position
This was formerly classified as an operational/technical position; an internal lateral transfer will retain same benefit standing
FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible For Overtime)
Retirement Eligibility: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
Career Stream
Compensation Information:
Administrative and Operational Support 4
Pay Band S050
Job Code#20003825
Link to Purdue University's Compensation Guidelines: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/mngcareer/compguidelines/index.php
EOE
Purdue University is an EOE employer.
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Posting Start Date: 6/25/26
