Prototyping and Lab Specialist

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and technically proficient Prototyping and Lab Specialist to assume a senior role within our Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship (TIE) program. This position is integral to supporting graduate students through hands-on, project-based learning while advancing the development of instructional laboratories. The successful candidate will provide expert guidance in prototyping, oversee the entire project lifecycle, and collaborate closely with faculty to enhance project-based courses. Additionally, this role encompasses the procurement and management of lab equipment, ensuring facility upkeep, and serving as a pivotal liaison between university departments to facilitate seamless project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership and Prototyping Support: Deliver expert technical guidance, fabrication assistance, and prototyping knowledge to assist students in designing, constructing, testing, and refining functional prototypes. Ensure active student engagement throughout the development process while maintaining project momentum.
• Venture Translation and Planning: Assist students in converting venture requirements into structured prototype development plans, including defining MVP scope, creating bill of materials, establishing testing criteria, estimating costs, evaluating manufacturability, and setting iteration timelines.
• Lab Development and Innovation: Lead the evolution and implementation of cutting-edge lab facilities to meet the research and operational demands of the TIE program. Source high-quality materials and components, manage equipment procurement, maintain an accurate inventory, and coordinate with vendors to secure essential resources.
• Instructional and Operational Excellence: Contribute to the design, development, and continuous improvement of TIE’s instructional and prototyping labs, ensuring alignment with academic objectives, venture development needs, industry benchmarks, and stringent safety protocols.
• Mentorship and Troubleshooting: Provide hands-on mentorship to graduate students throughout their prototyping journey, offering technical expertise to troubleshoot challenges and propose innovative solutions. Advise on best practices in prototyping with a focus on safety, efficiency, and practical application.
• Facility Management and Safety Compliance: Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of laboratory facilities to create a safe, functional, and conducive learning environment. Ensure strict adherence to KAUST Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) policies and internationally recognized safety standards.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Act as a liaison between academic departments, administrative offices, and research centers to streamline project progress. Facilitate communication among stakeholders, providing clear updates on project status, challenges, and achievements to foster a collaborative ecosystem.
• Training and Knowledge Sharing: Conduct workshops and training sessions for students and staff to enhance project-based learning and technical proficiency. Empower teams with the skills necessary to excel in prototyping and lab operations.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain comprehensive records of technical support provided to student ventures, uphold confidentiality, and ensure awareness of intellectual property (IP) considerations. Develop and manage a prototyping dashboard to track prototype stages, technical risks, resource requirements, testing milestones, procurement needs, safety protocols, and upcoming showcase or demonstration deadlines.
• Strategic Reporting: Deliver insightful progress reports and presentations to TIE Program Leadership and relevant stakeholders, highlighting key developments, risks, and opportunities for continuous improvement.

Required Competencies

• Technical Proficiency: Extensive hands-on experience in prototyping, project management, and laboratory operations, with a strong foundation in mechanical and electronic systems, including actuators, sensors, and microcontrollers.
• Systems Knowledge: In-depth understanding of control systems and automation, including experience with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and robotics integration.
• Project Leadership: Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects from inception to completion, with a focus on delivering measurable outcomes in academic and entrepreneurial settings.
• Collaboration and Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the capacity to engage effectively with students, faculty, administrative staff, and external partners. Ability to articulate technical concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.
• Safety and Compliance: Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance in laboratory environments, with a proactive approach to risk mitigation.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities, with a solutions-oriented mindset to address technical and operational challenges efficiently.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of experiential learning and innovation within a dynamic academic environment. The ideal candidate will be a proactive problem-solver, a passionate mentor, and a technical leader committed to advancing the TIE program’s mission of fostering entrepreneurship and technological excellence.