Lab Program Manager

Overview

The Lab Program Manager will serve as the lab lead across both the Maverick Labs (1999 4th St., Norco, CA 92860) and Perris Skill Center (19 South D St., Perris, CA, 92570) locations, splitting time between the two sites and working alongside a lab technician at each. This role is responsible for driving hands-on lab engagement, guiding members and partner companies through prototyping and testing, and bringing industry and manufacturing experience to support product management and product advancement from early concept through to a market-ready outcome. The pay scale will be set commiserate with experience for an estimated 20-25-hour work week.

About: As part of Matter Labs, the Lab Program Manager oversees the day-to-day operation of two manufacturing and prototyping labs, ensuring each site runs safely, efficiently, and productively. Working in close partnership with the lab technician assigned to each location, this role blends operational leadership with technical mentorship — helping individuals and companies move ideas through design, prototyping, testing, and iteration toward a finished product.

Duties

• Act as the lab lead for both the Maverick Labs and Perris Skill Center locations, dividing time between sites to maintain consistent oversight and support at each.
• Directly supervise and coordinate with the lab technician at each location to ensure equipment, workflows, and daily lab operations run smoothly.
• Drive hands-on lab engagement by working directly with members and partner companies on their projects, offering guidance rooted in real industry and manufacturing experience.
• Promote and support prototyping and testing activities, helping teams move efficiently from concept to functional prototype.
• Apply product management principles to guide projects through iteration cycles, supporting product advancement toward production-ready outcomes.
• Establish and maintain lab safety standards, equipment maintenance schedules, and operating procedures across both locations.
• Coordinate equipment and resource needs between the two labs, ensuring members at each site have access to the tools required for their work.
• Identify manufacturing and industry best practices to bring into the lab environment, keeping processes current and relevant.
• Train and support lab technicians and members on proper use of prototyping and manufacturing equipment.
• Coordinate scheduling of lab time, equipment use, and project milestones across both sites.

Duties

• Monthly report on lab activity, utilization, and progress across both locations.
• Track metrics and impact: projects supported, prototypes developed, and outcomes achieved at each lab.
• Track prototyping and testing throughput, equipment usage, and product advancement milestones.
• Produce quarterly product spotlights featuring a project or company advanced through the labs — including the prototyping and testing process, challenges overcome, and the resulting product outcome.

Qualifications

• Hands-on technical experience with prototyping and fabrication equipment (e.g., 3D printers, CNC machines, hand and power tools).
• Some industry experience in manufacturing, product development, or a related technical field.
• Familiarity with product management basics, from concept and prototyping through testing.
• Comfortable leading or coordinating with technical staff, such as lab technicians.
• Basic understanding of lab safety practices and equipment upkeep.
• Good communication and mentorship skills, with the ability to guide members through hands-on problem-solving.
• Solid organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects across two locations.
• Ability to travel regularly between the Maverick Labs and Perris Skill Center locations.

Pay: $700.00 - $1,300.00 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person