Mechanical Shop & Lab Manager

About the role

Reframe Systems is seeking a dedicated Mechanical Shop & Lab Manager to oversee our FAB1 machine shop. This hands-on position involves managing a fully equipped space that supports engineering and prototyping across the company. You will be responsible for maintaining equipment, managing supplies, and developing a training program for safe machine use.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Take full responsibility for the machine shop and lab, including its layout, organization, cleanliness, and daily operations.
• Implement preventive maintenance schedules, troubleshoot and repair equipment, and manage vendor relationships.
• Monitor inventory levels, reorder consumables proactively, and make purchasing decisions for new tools and equipment.
• Create and deliver structured training programs for employees on mills, lathes, laser cutters, welding, and 3D printing.
• Establish and enforce shop safety protocols, including PPE, machine-specific procedures, and emergency plans.
• Serve as the primary resource for all shop users, from experienced engineers to new users, facilitating access and use.
• Contribute to active FAB1 projects by developing electro-mechanical prototypes, building fixtures, and performing fabrication when shop operations permit.

Requirements

• At least 3 years of direct experience in a machine shop, fabrication shop, or similar setting.
• Extensive practical knowledge of mills, lathes, laser cutters, welding, and 3D printing, including operation and maintenance.
• Proven ability to train others on shop equipment and safety, or a clear understanding of how to develop such a program.
• Highly organized, with a history of implementing structure in previously unorganized spaces.
• Capable of independent ownership of a workspace, demonstrating initiative without constant supervision.
• Effective communicator who can enforce safety and access rules without hindering productivity.

Nice to have

• Experience managing a shop, lab, or makerspace in an academic, startup, or industrial environment.
• Background in mechanical design or fabrication, including reading drawings, building fixtures, and supporting prototyping.
• Familiarity with systems for managing tools and inventory.
• Experience with OSHA or similar safety certifications.

Skills & tools

• Mills
• Lathes
• Laser cutters
• Welding equipment
• 3D printers

Practical notes

• This role offers significant autonomy and requires a proactive approach to managing the shop and lab.