R&D Infrastructure Project Manager

About Formlabs:

To reinvent an industry, you have to build the best team. Join Formlabs if you want to help us build the tools that make it possible for anyone to bring their ideas to life. We are bringing groundbreaking professional 3D printers and materials to the desktop of every designer, engineer, researcher, dentist, medical professional and artist in the world.

We are seeking a "R&D Infrastructure Project Manager" to take ownership of workspace organization, efficiency, and operational flow within our hardware research & development facility. This role is focused on optimizing lab and prototype shop layouts, standardizing storage and tool systems, and ensuring that engineers and technicians have the resources they need\-exactly when and where they need them.

You will apply Lean and Kaizen principles to create an environment that minimizes wasted motion, reduces clutter, and supports rapid hardware innovation. If you're passionate about transforming complex workspaces into high-performance, highly organized environments, this role is for you.
Key Responsibilities
Workspace Design & Organization

• Audit and redesign workspace layouts for efficiency, safety, and accessibility.
• Implement and maintain 5S principles (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) across labs, machine shops, and fabrication areas.
• Develop visual management systems, shadow boards, labeling standards, and standardized storage solutions.
• Optimize space utilization for tools, test equipment, and prototype storage.

Operational Flow & Resource Efficiency

• Map and streamline the movement of parts, tools, and materials through the R&D space.
• Improve the availability and accessibility of shared equipment.
• Minimize downtime caused by misplaced tools, parts shortages, or inefficient workspace layouts.

Standardization & Best Practices

• Create and enforce workspace organization standards for different teams and zones.
• Develop documentation, training, and checklists to maintain consistency.
• Partner with engineering and facilities teams to ensure new equipment is integrated seamlessly into existing workflows.

Continuous Improvement & Culture Building

• Lead Kaizen events focused on space and workflow optimization.
• Encourage a culture of ownership where every team member helps maintain and improve the workspace.
• Use data-driven metrics (e.g., time to locate tools, equipment uptime, space utilization rates) to measure and improve performance.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, Industrial Design, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3\-5+ years in workspace optimization, lab/shop management, or continuous improvement roles.
• Proven experience applying Lean, 5S, and Kaizen principles in technical environments.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and change management skills.

Preferred

• Six Sigma or Lean certification.
• Experience with hardware labs, maker spaces, or prototype shops.
• Familiarity with CNC machining, electronics assembly, or additive manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of EHS and lab safety standards.

Key Competencies

• Exceptional spatial organization and workflow design skills
• Strong problem-solving and analytical mindset
• Hands-on, collaborative leadership style
• Ability to balance efficiency improvements with creative R&D needs

Our Benefits & Perks:

• Robust equity program to build future wealth through RSUs
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage (Medical, Dental, Vision)
• Low cost fund options in our 401K and access to advisors
• Generous paid Parental Leave (up to 16 weeks)
• Tenure-based paid Sabbatical Leave (up to 6 weeks)
• Flexible Out of Office Plan \- Take time when you need it
• Ample on-site parking & pre-tax commuter benefits
• Healthy on-site lunches, snacks, beverages, & treats
• Regular sponsored professional development opportunities
• Many opt-in culture events across our diverse community
• And of course\... unlimited 3D prints

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Even if you don't check every box, but see yourself contributing, please apply. Help us build an inclusive community that will change the face of 3D printing.