Engineering and Physics Shop Manager 
  Apply now Job no:  494209 Work Type:  Staff full-time Location:  Abilene Categories:  Staff, Safety and Protection 
   
About ACU 
ACU is affiliated with the fellowship of the Church of Christ. All applicants must be professing Christians and willing to support the Christian mission and purpose of Abilene Christian University while employed by the university.
 
 
Title of Position Engineering and Physics Shop Manager  
Posting Location Abilene, Texas  
 
Department Engineering and Physics  
Employee Class Exempt Full-time  
Basic Responsibilities 
Shop and Lab Operations 
Student Training and Supervision 
Lab Development and Support 
Safety and Compliance 
Administrative and Technical Support 
 
 
 
Essential Duties 
Essential Duties include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Reasonable
Shop and Lab Operations: Manage and maintain the Engineering and Physics Labs located in Bennett Gym. This includes the organization, scheduling, and supervision of all lab resources. Operate, maintain, and repair a variety of equipment, from lathes and mills to 3D printers, ensuring all machinery is in excellent working order and adheres to strict safety standards. Responsible for the repair or arrangement of repairs for equipment and facilities. 
Student Training and Supervision: Develop and deliver training sessions on the proper and safe use of all lab equipment. Work directly with students to assist with their projects and to ensure they are properly trained in safe lab operations. Supervise student employees, providing guidance and assistance on projects and experimental setups, fostering a culture of safety and professionalism within the lab. 
Lab Development and Support: Work closely with faculty to prepare and set up lab experiments for engineering and physics courses. Involves fabricating specialized parts, assembling equipment, and ensuring all necessary materials are available for class and research activities. Maintain parts and supplies inventory. 
Safety and Compliance: Implement and enforce all shop and lab safety protocols and procedures. Maintain a clean and organized work environment, ensuring compliance with university and departmental safety regulations. Conduct regular safety inspections and lead training refreshers. Maintain, upgrade, and supervise the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and associated work instructions for the Bennett Gym Engineering & Physics Labs. Serve as primary Facility Emergency Manager for Bennett.  
Administrative and Technical Support: Assist with software upgrades and interface with ACU’s Information Technology and Networking departments. Manage key and swipe access to Bennett. Provide support for ABET accreditation issues as needed. Ensure Bennett facility use is properly invoiced to various users monthly and other duties to support the day-to-day operations of both departments may be assigned as well. 
 
 
 
Professional Development Requirements Skills
Proficiency in operating and maintaining standard machine shop equipment, including manual milling machines and manual engine lathes, along with multiprocess welders and Plasma Arc units. 
Intermediate computer skills in Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office Suite software. 
The ability to develop solid models and detailed engineering drawings, along with detailed assembly drawings using Autodesk Inventor 2023 or higher. Knowledge of CAD, CAM, and 3D printing is a plus. 
Strong organizational skills with an attention to detail, especially in inventory management. 
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for training and working with students and faculty. 
Commitment to safety and a thorough understanding of laboratory safety protocols. 
Ability to troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on equipment. 
 
Training Required
Orientation to standard operating procedures and work instructions. 
Autodesk 
Purchasing through ACU purchasing system. 
Safety training modules for general and specific safety hazards. 
 
 
 
Qualifications 
Experience
A minimum of three years of experience in a machine shop setting is necessary. Experience in a supervisory or teaching role is a strong plus. 
 
Education:
A diploma or certification in a relevant technical field is required; an associate’s or bachelor's degree in engineering, engineering technology, physics, or a related discipline is preferred. 
 
Personal
Willing to enforce safety requirements. 
Able to mentor student workers in the areas of work ethic and personnel protection equipment. 
Able to counsel students when they have violated Bennett Labs standard operating procedures and work instructions. 
Able to work well in and across teams of multiple disciplines. 
Willing to supervise and train students employees 
 
 
 
Physical Demands 
Able to lift 50 pounds on a regular basis. 
Able to stand 1 hour or more while operating equipment or observing students. 
Corrected 20/20 vision or better.  
 
 
 
Additional Information 
ACU does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, disability, genetic information, national or ethnic origin in employment opportunities, in keeping with applicable state and federal law.
ACU is committed to maintaining a safe and secure campus environment and protecting the university's financial and physical assets.  Therefore, Abilene Christian University conducts background checks on all candidates for employment in security sensitive positions.
 
 
 
 
 
  Advertised:  October 03, 2025  Applications close:  
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