Job Description

Position Summary:

The Innovation Lab Manager oversees daily operations of the Maker’s Space/Innovation Laboratory within the Veterinary Health and Education Complex (VHEC) and supports innovative teaching and research initiatives in the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. This role is responsible for the design, development, maintenance, and enhancement of veterinary simulation models, mannequins, and biomedical prototypes using a wide range of fabrication techniques and materials. The position collaborates closely with faculty, staff, students, and researchers to support hands-on learning, research prototyping, and interdisciplinary collaboration while managing lab resources and fostering a creative, safe, and productive laboratory environment.

Full Consideration Date:

This position will remain open until filled. For full consideration, please apply by Tuesday, July 14th, 2026, 12:00 AM (MT).

Description of Work Unit

The mission of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (CVMBS) at Colorado State University (CSU) is to improve the health of animals, people, and the planet through innovative and dedicated teaching, research, outreach, and clinical service. Through the actions of the Faculty and Staff, CVMBS empowers the next generation of leaders to change the world.

The CVMBS culture is one where trust, integrity, and respect set the foundation for effective teamwork, collaboration, transparency and accountability. CVMBS is committed to enhancing value to those served by the organization, ensuring operational excellence, continuously improving and maintaining a strong financial foundation, and consistently focusing on creating and maintaining a workplace community that supports all in doing their best work.

Essential Duties

• Collaborate with faculty and researchers to design, develop, and fabricate custom veterinary simulators, task trainers, mannequins, and biomedical prototypes using 3D printing, silicone model making, and other fabrication techniques.

• Support research initiatives by assisting with the development, prototyping, and modification of custom tools and equipment for veterinary and biomedical applications.

• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair simulation devices, research prototypes, and laboratory equipment to ensure optimal functionality and availability.

• Manage Innovation Lab resources, including procurement of materials, tools, and supplies, and oversee effective use of the lab budget in alignment with institutional goals.

• Provide training and guidance to faculty, staff, students, and researchers on proper use of simulation equipment, fabrication tools, and lab resources.

• Supervise daily use of the lab space to ensure adherence to safety protocols and promote a productive, collaborative working environment.

• Foster a culture of creativity, innovation, and professional growth by encouraging exploration of new technologies, materials, and methodologies.

• Participate in interdisciplinary collaboration and leadership activities, including service on college-level model-making committees and related groups.

Supervision

• Leads and supervises a team of three or more students

Condition of Employment:

• Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires)

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED

• Proven experience in design and fabrication, particularly with 3D printing, silicone model making, and related creative arts.

• Demonstrated ability to develop functional prototypes from conceptual ideas.

• Strong problem-solving skills, collaborative mindset, and a passion for hands-on creation and innovation.

• Evidence of the ability to complete projects in a timely manner

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree relevant to the above description. 

• Experience in a laboratory or workshop setting, managing equipment and resources. 

• Familiarity with simulation learning devices or educational models, especially in biomedical or veterinary contexts. 

• Interest or background in veterinary medicine, biomedical sciences, or healthcare education.   

• Previous experience with research projects involving fabrication of models and prototyping.

• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines. 

Application Instructions:

This position will remain open until filled. Interested applicants must submit a cover letter which addresses how professional experiences align with the required and preferred qualifications, a current resume, and a portfolio of your work. References will be requested from finalists at a later date and will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates.

CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you are needing assistance or accommodations with the search process, please reach out to the CVMBS HR staff at [email protected].

Salary Range

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

• Review our detailed benefits information here.

• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.