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, [email protected] 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.