Job Summary

The Department of Forestry and Natural Resources is seeking a Wood Research Laboratory Manager. In this role, you will work independently and under general supervision to oversee and maintain day-to-day operations of the Wood Research Laboratory (WRL). This includes designing, fabricating, and evaluating wood products for curricular and research projects conducted at WRL with general supervision from the Wood Products faculty. You will engage in the development, implementation, and evaluation of wood products extension programs targeting K-12 students and hardwood industries in Indiana as well as maintain, improve, communicate and demonstrate safety standards and practices in the Wood Research Laboratory (WRL). In addition, you will maintain the laboratory and all equipment at the best operational and safety status.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Leading the fabrication of wood products as part of research activities, which includes designing, operating, and evaluating various wood products in collaboration with Wood products faculty and collaborating partners
• Designing testing apparatuses for research projects
• Managing material processing and testing to address research needs of Wood Products faculty and their graduate students
• Responsible for minor adjustments in processing and testing procedures to increase effectiveness of laboratory operations
• Providing instructional training to undergraduate, graduate, and others users outside of the WRL on material processing, furniture making, CAD/CAM usage, and the operation of all WRL equipment
• Providing instructional expertise in designated wood products courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels to fulfill the needs of Forestry major, particularly the Sustainable Biomaterials concentration, and two minors (i.e., Furniture Design, Wood Products Manufacturing Technology).
• Participating in the development of laboratory operations standards and ensures adherence to these standards
• Developing and conducting demonstrations and interactive activities for Extension programs targeting K-12 students
• Providing Extension programs that address the needs of hardwood industry partners in Indiana in collaboration with Wood Products faculty
• Leading WRL visits for undergraduate recruitment events and K-12 career exploration groups
• Designing and fabricating wood products for various activities and exhibits organized by the WRL and the department as a whole
• Representing the Wood Products faculty and students in FNR Extension and public outreach events
• Training and managing potential student workers in the WRL
• Coordinating space and equipment utilization safely and efficiently for all users
• Ensuring compliance with Purdue safety departments (EHS and OSHA)
• Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, including woodworking and testing machines, conditioning chambers, dry kiln, and WoodMizer band sawmill
• Reviewing all machine standards and enforcing safety procedures
• Updating and maintaining lab computers, CAD/CAM, and laser software
• Writing grant proposals for new laboratory equipment
• Working within the yearly laboratory budget
• Working with Forest Products Student Club to ensure shop safety

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor's degree in Wood Products, Technology, Forestry, or Engineering
• 2 years of combined experience in the wood-related field. Acceptable experience may include Wood Products research and engagement with hardwood industries
• Strong woodworking skills, attention to detail, safety, order, and cleanliness
• Some physical labor (lifting, moving) will be required
• Knowledge of CNC manufacturing, experience in CAD/CAM, and a willingness to learn the operation of the WRL testing equipment
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as working collaboratively with faculty and students in a team setting

Nice to Have:

• Masters degree

What We'd Like You to Know:

• Learn more about Purdue’s benefits summary, https://bit.ly/3sHGbls
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A Background Check is required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions Waiting Period
• Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply