R&D Lab Manager

Meta Reality Labs - Research (RL-R) is dedicated to the research and development required to bring virtual and augmented reality to billions of people around the world. At the Codec Avatar lab, we aspire to a vision of social VR and AR, where people are able to interact with each other across distances in a way that is indistinguishable from in-person interactions.RL-R is seeking a self-motivated leader to join our team as a Shop Manager. In this role, you will support a world-class, multi-disciplinary team of researchers, engineers, and technicians. Your primary responsibility will be to lead our efforts in providing lab spaces, equipment, and resources that are essential for gaining a scientific understanding of the work required to progress towards authentic social presence. The ideal candidate will have the ability to recognize the evolving needs of the shop and lab spaces in relation to project priorities, develop plans to address deficiencies, and effectively communicate with both leadership and working groups. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a willingness to learn are considered essential for this role.

• Plan and oversee the operations, equipment, and personnel for the shop and multiple lab spaces, ensuring smooth daily operations and efficient use of resources.
• Define and enforce safety protocols in collaboration with our internal EHS (Environmental Health & Safety) team, maintaining a safe and healthy work environment by ensuring compliance with currently established EHS protocols.
• Develop and implement a preventative maintenance program for all shop and lab equipment, which includes scheduling regular inspections and coordinating necessary repairs or replacements.
• Source and maintain shop/lab equipment, machines, and an inventory of supplies, ensuring that all equipment is in good working order and that supplies are adequately stocked.
• Collaborate with the infrastructure and facilities team to address outstanding shop/lab issues and participate in planning for future needs and growth, ensuring the shop and lab spaces can accommodate evolving requirements.
• Implement a system to track, maintain, and coordinate access to tools & equipment, enforcing the usage of such systems to ensure accountability and prevent loss or misuse of equipment.
• Train users on safety and the use of various equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, basic metal & woodworking power tools, etc., ensuring that all users are competent and confident in the use of equipment they need for their work.
• Grow internal shop capabilities by researching new methods, techniques, and equipment, presenting business cases to leadership for the adoption of innovations that can improve efficiency or expand capabilities.
• Mentor coworkers on best practices, designing for fabrication, and alternative methods, sharing your expertise to help others develop their skills and knowledge.
• Build relationships with Meta shops at other sites and leverage shared services when applicable, fostering a sense of community and collaboration across different locations.
• Foster collaboration between internal RL-R teams, encouraging teamwork and shared problem-solving to achieve common goals.

• Associates degree or technical certificate in a relevant field
• 5+ years of experience working in a shop or lab environment
• Efficient knowledge of 3D printing and prototyping shop equipment
• Familiarity with electronics and associated lab & testing equipment

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
• 8+ years of experience working in a shop or lab environment
• 3+ years of experience as a shop or lab manager
• Experience with and/or implementation of Reftab and other inventory management systems
• Experience with electronics fabrication, rework, diagnostics, and workspace requirements such as RoHS compliance, ESD needs, power systems, and cleanliness
• Experience constructing business cases and plan for shop/lab capital purchases and space expansions
• Experience brining shop/lab spaces up from concept to reality