Assistant Director

About the Opportunity

The Assistant Director – Electrical and Computer Engineering Lab and Safety is a key partner for one of the largest departments with one of the largest research portfolios in the University. This position will work with the Director of Administration and Finance as well as the Chair of the department to develop/implement policies and procedures to ensure all laboratories – research and teaching – within the department operate in a safe and efficient manner; and will manage the department’s space planning and implement department initiatives.

Specifically, the Assistant Director – Lab and Safety works closely with faculty 1) providing strategic and administrative support for space planning; 2) serving as primary contact with the college and university related to all departmental facilities improvements, upgrades, and operations; 3) directing or assisting with all activities associated with research laboratories and teaching labs.

Working under the supervision of the Director of Administration and Finance, the Assistant Director is responsible for serving as the lead point of contact for full-time faculty/institutes providing consultation when needed and confirming materials, equipment, and space are ready. The Assistant Director will also serve as the point of contact for the department as it pertains to space planning, health and safety, and facilities inquiries. The Assistant Director manages a team of three Lab Technicians and oversees Teaching Lab maintenance, equipment purchasing, and operations, ensuring equipment is properly maintained, upgraded, and refreshed to provide faculty with high-performing technical infrastructure and software. Working closely with the department and college IT personnel, lab technicians, and academic space operations team, they will manage and execute necessary projects. This role requires effective communication with faculty, staff, central IT personnel, and College Space operations teams. 

The ideal candidate is a versatile individual who can step into different responsibilities, adapt to shifting priorities as needed, and support cross-functional tasks when necessary.  The position calls for flexibility, strong project management skills, and the ability to quickly learn new areas of responsibility as departmental needs evolve.

The Assistant Director serves as the on-call responder for departmental facility emergencies, coordinating necessary actions when issues arise. The position may require travel to national and global campus sites to support off-site facilities. This is designated as an "essential" position.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Environmental Health & Safety, or related field required; Master's degree preferred
• Minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in laboratory operations, project management, and administrative experience, preferably in a higher education setting
• Demonstrated managerial skills, and ability to be a positive influence on the work team
• Customer service competencies and the ability to focus on the needs of others, including faculty and students. Approachable, positive attitude resulting in increased collaboration and support of group initiatives.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Thorough knowledge of laboratory safety regulations and OSHA requirements
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite
• Proficiency with space planning software (e.g., Archibus or equivalent)
• Knowledge of laboratory operations in an electrical and computer engineering environment
• Familiarity with laboratory safety management systems (e.g., SciShield/OARS)
• Ability to learn new software programs as needed or directed
• Understanding of facilities management and construction/renovation processes
• Knowledge of space evaluation, planning, and utilization considerations, with emphasis on laboratory spaces involving intensive equipment and specialized infrastructure needs
• Knowledge of Workday Finance and IntelliBUY+  (or comparable systems) for supplier management, contract submissions, and catalog purchasing.

Professional Skills and Abilities:

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Proven capability to manage and prioritize multiple concurrent projects
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Customer service orientation when working with faculty, staff, students, and vendors
• Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders including faculty, researchers, administrators, and external vendors/contractors
• Problem-solving skills with ability to develop and implement effective solutions

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with sustainability initiatives in laboratory settings
• Certifications in laboratory safety (e.g., Certified Laboratory Safety Professional)
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent
• Experience with asset management and inventory control systems

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

109S

Expected Hiring Range:

$66,850.00 - $94,427.50

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.