University of New Mexico
The ARTSLab Lab Manager supports the day-to-day operations of the Art, Research, Technology & Science Laboratory (ARTSLab) at the University of New Mexico. Working closely with the Director, the Lab Manager ensures the smooth functioning of the facility by maintaining equipment, coordinating access and scheduling, and supporting research and creative projects that span art, design, science, and technology. This position plays a key role in fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and innovative environment for students, faculty, and researchers exploring emerging media and interdisciplinary practice.
This is a full-time, on-site position based at ARTSLab, working Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Lab Manager follows the university’s academic calendar, with two months off during the summer.
Responsibilities
- Oversee day-to-day technical, educational, and research support activities conducted in the laboratory; contribute to planning and reviewing the lab’s performance.
- Develop policy and protocol around shared equipment, reservations, and student access; implement appropriate inventory control systems and maintain inventory databases.
- Provide training on specialized technology and tools to students, student employees, and faculty.
- Establish and maintain policies regarding safe use of equipment; conduct safety orientations for students and faculty on the proper use of equipment and materials.
- Maintain thorough records of equipment condition and needed service; conduct a full inventory and status evaluation once per semester.
- Work with accountants, administrators, and IT staff on purchasing new items, updating obsolete software and systems, and repairing damaged equipment.
- Monitor expenses and manage the allocated budget for each semester; prepare internal reports for management.
- Supervise student employees each semester, including posting positions, interviewing, and onboarding.
- Schedule student employees and assign responsibilities; provide training on equipment, hardware, and software.
- Foster a positive and cooperative work environment that encourages learning, collaboration, and creativity.
About ARTSLab
ARTSLab is a research and production facility within the University of New Mexico’s College of Fine Arts. ARTSLab supports interdisciplinary collaboration between artists, designers, scientists, and engineers through access to cutting-edge tools and technologies. The lab features a production studio, immersive projection dome, digital fabrication equipment, motion capture systems, and XR workstations. Founded in 2005, ARTSLab continues to foster innovative research, creative experimentation, and public engagement at the intersection of art, science, and technology.
See the Position Description for additional information.
- Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Bachelor’s degree in a directly related field; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Preferred Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a field related to art, design, media, engineering, or technology.
- At least two years of experience working directly with students and faculty, or comparable experience in a client- or teaching-focused environment.
- Experience managing operations in a creative technology, media production, or research lab environment.
- Demonstrated ability to oversee day-to-day facility use, equipment scheduling, and maintenance.
- Experience supporting interdisciplinary projects that bridge art, design, science, and technology.
- Proven record of supervising student employees, interns, or project assistants.
- Experience coordinating workshops, public events, or exhibitions that engage both university and community audiences.
Technical Knowledge
- Proficiency with digital fabrication tools (e.g., 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers) and media production equipment (e.g., cameras, lighting, audio systems).
- Familiarity with extended reality (XR/AR/VR) systems, motion capture, or immersive projection environments.
- Working knowledge of software platforms such as Unity, Unreal Engine, TouchDesigner, Adobe Creative Cloud, or related creative coding environments.
- Understanding of equipment safety, inventory management, and troubleshooting procedures.
Soft Skills
- Exceptional organizational skills; ability to prioritize, track details, and keep complex projects and facilities running smoothly.
- Excellent communication skills with an ability to collaborate across disciplines and departments.
- A service-oriented mindset and enthusiasm for helping students, faculty, and researchers realize their creative and scholarly goals.
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Please provide a cover letter and a current resume.
Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.
