Electrical Prototyping Lab Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Electrical Prototyping Lab Manager

Company: BAE Systems

Location: Maple Grove, Minnesota, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations Management / Technical Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-05

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage a team of skilled electronics technicians and assemblers within a prototype facility, ensuring operational efficiency and adherence to safety protocols.

• Drive the integration of cutting-edge laboratory technologies and tools to enhance prototyping capabilities and output.

• Provide hands-on technical guidance and mentorship, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development in electronics assembly and testing.

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the lab, including resource allocation, equipment maintenance, and compliance with organizational and safety standards.

• Directly contribute to the quality and speed of the prototyping process, impacting the development of advanced defense and aerospace technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Electrical Prototyping Lab Manager," the responsibilities strongly indicate a role within operations management, specifically focused on the technical and logistical execution of prototyping. This role bridges technical expertise with people management and operational oversight, making it a critical function for GTM (Go-To-Market) readiness through rapid product development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct, delegate tasks, and rigorously measure the performance of electronics technicians and assemblers, ensuring high productivity and quality standards.

• Instruct personnel on critical safety procedures, proper equipment usage, and adherence to strict laboratory and manufacturing protocols.

• Enforce organizational, safety, and housekeeping standards consistently within the laboratory environment to maintain a secure and efficient workspace.

• Lead and train team members on the operation of complex machinery, specialized tools, and the handling of various materials essential for electronics prototyping.

• Provide technical assistance and develop accurate cost/effort estimates for prototyping and assembly projects, supporting project planning and budgeting.

• Proactively identify and recommend emerging tooling, techniques, and technologies to enhance long-term lab capabilities and competitive advantage.

• Manage the calibration of laboratory equipment, ensuring all tools and instruments meet required standards and are maintained for optimal performance.

• Oversee hands-on assembly processes including cable, circuit board, and panel assembly, ensuring adherence to quality specifications.

• Operate and maintain standard and advanced lab equipment such as Network Analyzers, Spectrum Analyzers, Oscilloscopes, and Waveform Generators.

• Program and operate automated electronics assembly and test equipment, optimizing throughput and precision.

• Ensure compliance with military and industrial standards, including MIL-HDBK-454, IPC-620, IPC-610, and J-STD-001 soldering standards.

• Implement and enforce Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) control measures, and lead personnel training on ESD best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership and operational management. The emphasis on directing teams, enforcing standards, and managing equipment calibration points to a structured operations framework. The inclusion of specific industry standards (IPC, J-STD) and technical proficiencies (ESD, high-voltage) signifies a need for deep domain expertise within an operations context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or an Industrial Field.

Experience: 6+ years of experience in a relevant field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Prior supervisory or managerial experience is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to direct, delegate, and measure the performance of electronics technicians and assemblers.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills for clear instruction on safety, equipment, and procedures.

• Proven ability to enforce organizational, safety, and housekeeping standards within a laboratory setting.

• Capability to lead and train personnel on the use of complex machinery, tools, and materials.

• Experience with hands-on cable, circuit board, and panel assembly.

• Proficiency with standard laboratory test equipment including Network Analyzers, Spectrum Analyzers, Oscilloscopes, and Waveform Generators.

• Working knowledge of MS Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel) for administrative and reporting tasks.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a dynamic team environment. Preferred Skills:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering.

• Prior supervisory or managerial experience in a technical or manufacturing setting.

• Experience programming and operating automated electronics assembly and test equipment.

• Familiarity with environmental test equipment (e.g., thermal chambers, vibration tables).

• Ability to provide technical assistance and develop cost/effort estimates for prototyping projects.

• Proactive identification of emerging tooling and techniques to enhance lab capabilities.

• Experience managing calibrated equipment and maintaining calibration standards.

• Proficiency working with high-voltage AC and DC systems.

• Strong knowledge of military and industrial standards (MIL-HDBK-454, IPC-620, IPC-610).

• Expertise in adhering to J-STD-001 soldering standards.

• Expertise in Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) control measures and personnel training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a combination of technical depth in electronics prototyping and operational leadership. The inclusion of specific industry standards and technical proficiencies suggests that candidates with experience in regulated environments (defense, aerospace) will be highly competitive. The preference for prior supervisory experience underscores the management aspect of this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented examples of process improvements implemented in previous lab management or technical lead roles, demonstrating efficiency gains or quality enhancements.

• Case studies showcasing successful team leadership, including delegation strategies, performance management, and team development initiatives.

• Evidence of system implementation or optimization, particularly related to lab equipment integration, workflow automation, or calibration management.

• Metrics-driven examples of how your leadership or process contributions have directly impacted project timelines, cost savings, or overall operational throughput in a prototyping environment. Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow design and optimization for electronics assembly and testing processes, highlighting methodologies used to streamline operations.

• Documentation of process implementation and automation strategies, particularly for repetitive tasks or complex testing procedures.

• Samples of performance measurement frameworks and analysis techniques used to track lab efficiency, team productivity, and equipment utilization.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should focus on tangible results in operational efficiency, team performance, and technical execution within a prototyping context. Demonstrating an ability to document, standardize, and improve processes is crucial, aligning with core operations principles. The emphasis should be on quantifiable achievements and a systematic approach to lab management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $118,095 - $200,762 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for managing healthcare expenses.

• 401(k) savings plan with company contributions.

• Disability coverage to provide financial security.

• Life and accident insurance for peace of mind.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support services.

• Legal plan for access to legal counsel.

• Employee discount programs for various services.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays.

• Extended leave programs including paid parental, military, and bereavement leave.

• Applicable federal and state sick leave.

• Company recognition program for outstanding contributions.

• Potential for other incentives based on position level and job specifics.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with a 9/80 schedule (working 9 days over a 2-week period, with every other Friday off). This schedule offers enhanced work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is quite broad, reflecting the seniority and varied responsibilities of a Lab Manager role at a large defense contractor. The 9/80 work schedule is a significant benefit for work-life balance, uncommon in many industries, and should be highlighted for its impact on operational team engagement and retention.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense, Aerospace, and Security. BAE Systems operates at the forefront of national security technology, providing advanced solutions across air, land, maritime, space, and cyber domains. The company's work is critical to global defense efforts.

Company Size: Over 40,000 employees worldwide. This large scale suggests a structured, process-oriented environment with significant resources and established operational frameworks.

Founded: BAE Systems, Inc. is headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia. The company's long history in defense and aerospace implies a culture of precision, reliability, and continuous innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Electrical Prototyping Lab Manager will lead a team of skilled electronics technicians and assemblers, likely comprising several individuals.

• The reporting structure will likely involve a direct report to a higher-level engineering or operations manager responsible for R&D or production support functions.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with engineering design teams, project managers, quality assurance, and potentially supply chain departments to ensure seamless prototype development and integration. Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are critical for performance monitoring and process improvement within the lab. This includes tracking key metrics related to throughput, quality, and efficiency.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies will be employed to streamline assembly, testing, and calibration processes, ensuring timely delivery of prototypes.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, particularly in programming automated assembly and test equipment, to enhance precision and output.

Company Website: https://jobs.baesystems.com/global/en

📝 Enhancement Note: BAE Systems' position in the defense industry implies a culture that values precision, adherence to standards, and a mission-driven approach. The scale of the company suggests robust operational processes and opportunities for professional development within a large, established organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a management-level position within a technical operations function. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in electronics prototyping and strong leadership skills to manage a team and operational processes. The role is critical for bridging the gap between engineering design and tangible product development.

Reporting Structure: The Lab Manager will likely report to a Senior Engineering Manager, Director of Operations, or a similar leadership role within the R&D or manufacturing support division. They will manage a team of technicians and assemblers.

Operations Impact: The Lab Manager's impact is direct and significant, influencing the speed, quality, and cost-effectiveness of prototype development. Successful lab operations are fundamental to BAE Systems' ability to innovate, test new technologies, and meet critical defense program timelines.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in managing complex technical operations, supply chain integration for prototyping, and advanced manufacturing techniques.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into broader operational management roles, overseeing larger facilities, multiple labs, or different production stages. This could include roles like Manufacturing Manager, Production Supervisor, or Program Operations Manager.

• Technical Specialization: Possibility to become a subject matter expert in specific prototyping technologies, automated testing, or advanced assembly processes, potentially leading specialized technical teams or initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for individuals looking to transition from a hands-on technical role to a leadership position with significant operational responsibility. The combination of technical depth and management duties prepares individuals for broader operational leadership roles within the defense and aerospace sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role requires regular presence in a manufacturing or fabrication environment, indicating a hands-on, dynamic workspace rather than a traditional office setting.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Maple Grove, Minnesota. This facility is likely equipped with specialized tools and machinery for electronics prototyping and assembly.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is expected to be collaborative, with frequent interaction between the Lab Manager, technicians, assemblers, and engineering teams.

• Access to a comprehensive suite of operations tools and technology, including advanced lab equipment, assembly machinery, and potentially enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for inventory and scheduling.

• Opportunities for direct team interaction, problem-solving on the floor, and hands-on work with cutting-edge technology.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, utilizing a 9/80 plan which provides every other Friday off. This offers a structured yet flexible work environment conducive to focused technical work and operational management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a manufacturing/fabrication environment means candidates should be comfortable with industrial settings, including potential exposure to noise, machinery, and the need for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The 9/80 schedule is a key differentiator for work-life balance in this type of role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with required qualifications, particularly experience in electronics prototyping, team leadership, and relevant technical skills.

• Technical & Operational Assessment: This may involve a technical interview focusing on your hands-on experience with lab equipment, assembly processes, and knowledge of industry standards (IPC, J-STD, ESD). Operational questions will probe your approach to team management, safety enforcement, and process optimization.

• Leadership & Situational Interview: Questions designed to evaluate your leadership style, problem-solving abilities, and how you would handle specific scenarios related to team management, project challenges, and resource allocation.

• Portfolio Review (if applicable): You may be asked to present specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your capabilities in process improvement, team leadership, or technical execution. Be prepared to discuss the impact and results of your work.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall suitability for the role and BAE Systems.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For any case studies or examples presented, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the measurable results (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, improved quality, reduced cycle time).

• Demonstrate Leadership: Highlight instances where you successfully led a team, delegated tasks effectively, and mentored individuals to improve performance.

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Include examples of your hands-on work, troubleshooting, or implementation of new technologies and processes.

• Highlight Process Improvement: Detail any workflows you optimized, standards you enforced, or systems you implemented/managed, emphasizing the operational benefits.

• Prepare for Specifics: Be ready to discuss your experience with specific equipment (e.g., spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes), assembly types (cable, PCB), and industry standards (IPC, J-STD, ESD).

Challenge Preparation:

• Operational Scenario: Be prepared for scenario-based questions related to managing team conflicts, addressing safety violations, prioritizing competing project demands, or troubleshooting equipment failures.

• Process Improvement Exercise: You might be asked to outline how you would approach improving a specific lab process, such as calibration management or assembly workflow. Focus on a structured, data-driven approach.

• Leadership Philosophy: Articulate your management style, how you motivate teams, and your approach to performance management and professional development for your team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the technical and leadership demands, expect a multi-stage interview process. A strong portfolio that showcases both technical execution and operational management success will be a significant asset. Be prepared to discuss specific technical challenges and leadership strategies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Standard Lab Equipment: Network Analyzers, Spectrum Analyzers, Oscilloscopes, Waveform Generators, Multimeters, Power Supplies. Proficiency in operating and maintaining these is essential.

• Assembly Tools: Soldering stations, wire stripping tools, crimping tools, hand tools, potentially automated soldering equipment (e.g., reflow ovens, wave soldering).

• Automated Electronics Assembly & Test Equipment: Experience with programming and operating automated systems for component placement, soldering, and functional testing is a strong preference.

• Environmental Test Equipment: Familiarity with Thermal Chambers and Vibration Tables for product qualification testing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Office Suite: Excel for data analysis, reporting, and spreadsheet management; Word for documentation; Outlook for communication.

• Potential for ERP/MRP Systems: Experience with systems like SAP, Oracle, or similar for inventory management, production scheduling, and resource tracking would be beneficial.

• Calibration Management Software: Tools or systems used to track, schedule, and manage equipment calibration.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how prototyping feeds into product development pipelines and how to communicate with engineering/project management teams is key.

• Automation tools for lab processes (as mentioned above) are critical for efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on specialized electronics laboratory equipment and assembly machinery. The ability to not only use but also program and manage automated systems is a key differentiator. Familiarity with enterprise systems that support manufacturing operations is also valuable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision and Quality: A commitment to high standards in all aspects of work, from assembly to testing and documentation, reflecting the critical nature of defense systems.

• Safety First: An unwavering dedication to safety protocols, ensuring a secure working environment for all team members and compliance with regulations.

• Efficiency and Innovation: A drive to optimize processes, reduce waste, and adopt new technologies to improve prototyping speed and capability.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together effectively, share knowledge, and contribute to collective success.

• Accountability and Ownership: Taking responsibility for tasks, outcomes, and the overall performance of the lab.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The Lab Manager will work closely with engineering teams to understand prototype requirements, provide feedback on design for manufacturability, and ensure seamless transition from design to prototype build.

• Process Review Culture: Encouraging regular team meetings and feedback sessions to identify areas for process improvement and address operational challenges collaboratively.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where technical expertise and best practices are shared among team members, fostering continuous learning and skill development across the lab.

📝 Enhancement Note: BAE Systems' values likely emphasize integrity, performance, and a commitment to mission. For an operations role in a technical lab, this translates to a culture that respects technical expertise, demands high-quality output, and prioritizes safety and efficiency.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical Depth and Management: Effectively managing a team while staying current with rapidly evolving electronics prototyping technologies and hands-on requirements.

• Resource Constraints: Managing budgets and equipment availability to meet diverse project demands within potentially tight timelines.

• Adherence to Strict Standards: Consistently ensuring compliance with rigorous military and industry standards in a fast-paced prototyping environment.

• Integrating New Technologies: Successfully identifying, evaluating, and integrating new tools and automation to enhance lab capabilities and maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to gain experience in advanced manufacturing techniques, lean principles, supply chain logistics for prototyping, and quality management systems.

• Industry Conference & Certification: Potential to attend industry events focused on electronics manufacturing, prototyping, or operations management, and pursue relevant certifications (e.g., Lean Six Sigma).

• Operations Mentorship: Access to experienced operations leaders within BAE Systems for guidance on strategic decision-making, team development, and career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a technical management role in a demanding industry. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering pathways to both broader operational leadership and deeper technical specialization within a leading defense contractor.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe your approach to managing a high-performing electronics prototyping team. How do you balance technical demands with team development and operational efficiency?" (Prepare to discuss team structure, delegation, performance metrics, and continuous improvement strategies.)

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How would you collaborate with engineering teams to ensure prototype designs are manufacturable and meet project timelines? Describe a time you had to manage conflicting priorities between engineering and operations." (Focus on communication, feedback loops, and problem-solving.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a critical piece of prototyping equipment fails just before a key project deadline. How would you address this situation to minimize impact on the project timeline and team morale?" (Outline your immediate actions, contingency planning, and communication strategy.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about BAE Systems and this specific role in our prototyping lab?" (Research BAE Systems' mission, recent projects, and connect it to your passion for defense technology and operations leadership.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and quality within a technical team?" (Discuss your approach to safety training, compliance enforcement, and promoting a quality-first mindset.)

• "How do you measure the success and impact of a prototyping lab?" (Be prepared to discuss key performance indicators (KPIs) related to cycle time, cost, quality, innovation, and team performance.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for clear and concise storytelling. Focus on quantifiable achievements and your specific role in driving those results.

• Highlight Operational Impact: Emphasize how your actions led to improved efficiency, reduced costs, enhanced quality, or faster project completion. Use metrics whenever possible.

• Showcase Leadership: Illustrate your ability to lead, motivate, and develop teams. Provide examples of how you empowered your team members.

• Technical Relevance: Clearly connect your portfolio examples to the specific technical requirements of the Lab Manager role, including equipment, processes, and industry standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess your ability to blend technical acumen with strong leadership and operational management skills. Be prepared to articulate your experience with specific technologies, processes, and your approach to team leadership and continuous improvement within a defense industry context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the BAE Systems careers portal via the provided job URL.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in electronics prototyping, lab management, team leadership, specific equipment operation (e.g., Network Analyzers, Oscilloscopes), and familiarity with industry standards (IPC, J-STD, ESD). Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of process improvements, team leadership successes, and technical project outcomes. Focus on demonstrating operational efficiency, quality, and impact. Be ready to present these concisely.

• Research BAE Systems: Understand the company's mission, values, and its role in the defense and aerospace sectors. This will help you tailor your responses to align with their strategic objectives and culture.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common operations management and technical leadership questions, focusing on providing specific examples and demonstrating your problem-solving and leadership capabilities.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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