Lab Manager; Mechanical Engineering – Paper Making​/Fiber Materials

The Lab Manager will oversee day‑to‑day lab operations and support mechanical and process development for paper‑making and fiber‑based production systems. This is a hands‑on engineering leadership role that blends mechanical design, fabrication, project management, and mentorship.

The ideal candidate is highly self‑motivated, technically versatile, and comfortable working independently in a fast‑changing startup environment.

• Manage day‑to‑day lab operations supporting paper‑making and materials development
• Design, build, modify, and troubleshoot lab and pilot‑scale mechanical systems
• Develop and improve fixtures, tooling, molds, test setups, and prototype equipment
• Lead mechanical and electromechanical system integration projects
• Manage engineering projects from concept through commissioning (planning, budgeting, scheduling, vendor coordination)
• Create and maintain CAD models, technical drawings, and engineering documentation
• Support additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping efforts
• Oversee CNC machining and mold‑building activities (internal or outsourced)
• Maintain lab safety, organization, and operational readiness
• Coach and mentor interns, providing technical guidance and project oversight
• Work independently on complex problems while collaborating across teams
• Support continuous improvement and rapid iteration cycles

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field)
• 10+ years of engineering experience across multiple industries (manufacturing, R&D, industrial equipment, automation, etc.)
• Strong hands‑on mechanical aptitude with a builder’s mindset
• Proficiency in CAD design (Solid Works, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar)
• Experience with:
• Additive manufacturing (3D printing, rapid prototyping)
• CNC machining
• Mold design and mold building
• Electromechanical systems
• Experience managing mechanical and electrical projects
• Strong troubleshooting skills and root‑cause problem‑solving ability
• Self‑motivated and comfortable working in an independent environment
• Ability to adapt quickly in a startup‑style, evolving organization
• Strong communication skills and experience mentoring interns or junior engineers

• Experience in pulp & paper, fiber processing, or pilot plant operations
• Experience integrating sensors, controls, and instrumentation
• Vendor and fabrication shop coordination experience
• Experience working in startup or scale‑up environments

The right candidate:

• Enjoys building and improving real equipment — not just designing on a screen
• Is equally comfortable in CAD, on the shop floor, and in the lab
• Can manage multiple priorities without constant oversight
• Learns quickly and adapts to evolving technical challenges
• Thrives in ambiguity and fast‑paced development cycles
• Takes pride in mentoring and developing young engineers