Applied Engineering Lead

Location

Bastrop, TX, with occasional travel to the Austin campus.

Job Summary

UATX is seeking a visionary engineer and educator for the position of Applied Engineering Lead to serve as the architect of our new engineering laboratory in Bastrop and to help us build the future of technical education. This role is for a founding-minded leader who is passionate about educating future engineers in an innovative way. Beyond the laboratory, the Applied Engineering Lead will serve as a vital connector and liaison to industry partners, bridging the gap between academic innovation and commercial engineering.

About the Bastrop Facility

UATX is launching a ~16,000 sq. ft. lab in Bastrop, TX, supporting mechanics, electronics, robotics, optics, prototyping, and fabrication. It is designed for students and staff to build real systems in a high-performance, lab-based environment.

Responsibilities

• Program Innovation and Buildout

  • Commissioning: Lead fit-out of the new facility, designing workflows and equipment installation.
  • Strategic Procurement: Lead ordering and setup of laboratory equipment to meet state-of-the-art standards.
  • Project Development: Partner with faculty to develop and integrate rigorous, hands-on engineering activity into the curriculum.
  • Industry Liaison: Act as a connector to companies and external partners to ensure projects remain relevant to modern engineering needs.

• Instruction and Mentorship

  • Hands-on Teaching: Teach core principles of engineering, design, fabrication, and testing.
  • Active Mentorship: Directly mentor students as they navigate complex technical research and individual projects.

• Operational Excellence

  • Daily Management: Oversee daily operations to ensure a technically-ready environment for student focus.
  • Staffing & Vendors: Manage Bastrop-based staff and contractors as the facility scales.
  • Budget & Growth: Identify equipment gaps and manage upgrade budgets to maintain state-of-the-art laboratory standards.

• Safety and Compliance: Establish and maintain a safe, compliant laboratory environment, including safety protocols, training, equipment safeguards, and adherence to applicable OSHA, fire code, and environmental requirements.

Qualifications

• Education: Master's, Ph.D., or equivalent experience in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in CAD/CAM, machining, rapid prototyping, and/or circuit design.
• Mission Fit: A firm commitment to open inquiry and the pursuit of truth.