Physics Laboratory Program Operations Manager - Arts & Sciences

Position Summary
Oversees the undergraduate Physics laboratory program, including the introductory, upper-level, and advanced laboratories. Works closely with the faculty to develop and implement a holistic approach to the undergraduate laboratory sequence and provide continuity between courses. Utilizes a programmatic approach to labs at all levels and considers experimental design at the appropriate difficulty and level, course policies and procedures, collaboration between faculty and staff, and the overall day-to-day effectiveness of labs. Interfaces with the personnel running the large introductory physics laboratories.
Provides classroom instruction in both upper-level and introductory labs; applying current physics pedagogy to design, test, and implement new experiments for labs at all levels; training and supervising the lab teaching team, including staff members and graduate students; and facilitating the day-to-day operation of the upper-level labs. Works and thinks independently, as well as collaborates effectively as part of a team.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

Upper Level Labs

• Assist faculty with in-lab instruction of one advanced physics course per semester (Biophysics and Physics Measurement labs).
• Manage four advanced lab courses. (Optics, Electronics, Physical Measurements, and Biophysics labs).
• Maintain all experiments.
• Monitor and maintain all equipment.
• Collaborate closely with faculty to modify existing experiments and develop new ones.
• Write new and update existing manuals for experiments.
• Coordinate and maintain lab computers with department IT.
• Set up and take down lab experiments in shared spaces.
• Provide course support, including maintaining course materials and assignments in the LMS and associated educational tools.

Introductory Labs

• Supervise the lab teaching staff and assistants in instruction.
• Provide in-lab instruction for one introductory physics lab per semester (Fall and Spring).
• Collaborate with the introductory lab manager to ensure the introductory labs run effectively year-round.
• Develop new lab experiments and modify current ones.
• Write new and update existing manuals for experiments.
• Update the lab format and policies as necessary to provide a constructive and holistic experience for students, including potential physics majors.
• Train the lab teaching team (including staff and graduate students) to effectively teach inquiry-based lab experiments.
• Address student-related concerns, questions, and issues.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in experimental Physics.
• Five or more years’ experience in Advanced Lab instruction.
• Eight or more years’ experience in experiment design and implementation.
• Three or more years’ experience in project management/people management.
• Analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks in diverse environments.
• Excellent skills related to written and verbal communication, organization, and problem solving.
• Ability to creatively design, troubleshoot, and maintain equipment for all levels of undergraduate physics labs
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Highly organized with good time management skills. These skills are essential to be able to prioritize a multifaceted workload and handle a variety of responsibilities in a calm and flexible manner.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact professionally and courteously, in a team environment, with faculty, staff, students, and external collaborators.
• Demonstrated interest in and knowledge of current teaching methods and pedagogy.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics.
• Five or more years’ experience in university physics lab.
• Three or more years’ experience in instruction.
• Two or more years’ management experience.

Grade
G13

Salary Range
$64,700.00 - $110,500.00 / Annually

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ .

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Want to Live Near Your Work and/or improve your commute? Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees. We also offer a forgivable home loan of up to $12,500 for closing costs and a down payment for homes in eligible neighborhoods.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.