R&D Lab Manager - Fiber Optics & Telecom
Overview
You will run the day-to-day operation of a state-of-the-art fiber optic termination R&D lab, managing technician teams and coordinating prototype builds and qualification testing for a global telecom leader with $3B+ revenue. Your work directly supports the scaling of multi-fiber connector technology from concept through industrialization. You'll partner with R&D engineers to prioritize experiments and ensure safe, accurate, on-schedule execution. This role offers a hybrid schedule, tuition reimbursement, and the chance to lead a team of skilled technicians in a hands-on environment.
What You'll Do10
- 1Own daily lab operations: assign work, manage technician schedules, and keep equipment ready for the next build or test
- 2Lead, coach, and develop process and test technicians working on prototype builds, design verification, and automation trials
- 3Coordinate with R&D engineers to plan and execute test plans, process trials, and validation work
- 4Ensure lab activities meet stage-gate expectations and business priorities
- 5Implement safety and quality standards per AFL environmental health and safety policies
- 6Improve lab procedures, work instructions, and test methods to boost repeatability
- 7Manage prototype builds, sample prep, fixture setup, and data collection
- 8Monitor lab equipment and tooling to maintain readiness for upcoming projects
- 9Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Manufacturing Engineering
- 10Drive root cause analysis, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement for lab testing and process performance
Requirements8
- 1Associate degree in Engineering Technology or related technical field; equivalent experience accepted
- 25+ years in technical lab, manufacturing, test, process development, or product development
- 32+ years leading or supervising technical teams preferred
- 4Hands-on expertise with lab safety, test execution, and measurement systems
- 5Able to read engineering drawings, work instructions, and test plans
- 6Strong organizational skills to juggle multiple lab projects
- 7Clear written and verbal communication for summarizing lab status and risks
- 8Experience collaborating with engineers on new product and process development
Salary Insight
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