Idea Labs Manager (Administrator I)

Overview

San Diego State University is seeking an innovative and hands-on Idea Labs Manager to lead operations for the HG Fenton Company Idea Lab within the ZIP Launchpad. This role blends design thinking, rapid prototyping, and entrepreneurship—supporting students, faculty, and researchers in transforming ideas into tangible solutions. You’ll oversee lab operations, guide prototyping projects, and deliver programming that fosters creativity, experimentation, and startup development across campus.

Key Responsibilities

Idea Lab Operations & Leadership

Oversee day-to-day operations of the rapid prototyping lab, including safety, training, equipment, and project tracking.

Recruit, train, and guide student interns supporting lab activities and prototyping projects.

Ensure compliance with safety standards, grant requirements, and operational best practices.

Foster a collaborative, customer-focused environment that supports innovation and experimentation.

Design Thinking & Innovation Programming

Develop and deliver workshops, tools, and resources grounded in design thinking methodology.

Support concept development and testing through integration of design thinking and rapid prototyping processes.

Lead presentations and outreach efforts to promote innovation and entrepreneurship across campus.

Entrepreneurship & Campus Collaboration

Contribute to the development and execution of ZIP Launchpad programming and initiatives.

Collaborate with campus partners to integrate innovation, prototyping, and AI tools into entrepreneurship programs.

Support cross-campus initiatives that advance startup development and experiential learning.

Technology, Tools & Continuous Improvement

Integrate emerging tools, including AI and no-code technologies, into prototyping workflows and student learning.

Monitor lab usage, project outcomes, and performance metrics to continuously improve services and impact.

Stay current with trends in design thinking, prototyping technologies, and startup development.

Why Join Us?

Build what’s next – Help bring ideas to life by supporting prototyping, innovation, and startup development at SDSU.

Hands-on innovation – Work at the intersection of design thinking, prototyping, and entrepreneurship.

Dynamic environment – Collaborate with founders (students and researchers) in a fast-paced, creative setting.

Make a real impact – Empower the next generation of innovators through experiential learning and cutting-edge tools.

As part of the California State University (CSU) system, San Diego State University helps power one of the largest and most impactful public university systems in the nation. See what it’s like to work at the CSU—watch our video and imagine your future here: Working at the CSU.

Position Information

This is a full-time, at-will role, offering comprehensive benefits.

Position is designated exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.

Standard SDSU work hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs. (Ability to attend or work occasional evening events is preferred.)

The individual hired into this role will work on campus at SDSU in San Diego.

Department Summary
The Division of Research and Innovation (DRI) is the central university office with oversight of SDSU Research Foundation, and the following units: Innovation, Research Operations, Research Advancement, Research Support Services, Technology Transfer, the ZIP Launchpad, Research Communications, Undergraduate Research, and a specialized IT unit. The leader of the unit is the Vice President for Research and Innovation. As the chief research officer for SDSU, the VPRI is responsible for institutional approval of all grant and contract proposals relating to sponsored research, instruction, and service agreements, as well as developing partnerships for the Innovation District as part of the SDSU Mission Valley Development.

The ZIP Launchpad is SDSU's on-campus incubator supporting SDSU students, researchers, faculty, and staff in advancing their ideas to become launched startups. In support of the ZIP Launchpad, the HG Fenton Company Idea Lab provides teams in the incubator with rapid prototyping support. The Executive Director of Entrepreneurship Initiatives is responsible for the ZIP Launchpad and the HG Fenton Company Idea Lab.

For more information regarding the ZIP Launchpad, click here.

Education And Experience
Must have a bachelor’s degree (BA or BS) in an engineering field or a related discipline, along with at least two years of experience working in prototype development environments. They must also have at least one year of experience applying Design Thinking methodologies and demonstrated proficiency in using AI tools for prototyping.

Key Qualifications

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to effectively present to and engage diverse audiences.

Demonstrated organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Proven ability to lead, delegate, and develop team members in a collaborative environment.

Ability to provide clear direction, guidance, and training to support team and project success.

High level of knowledge in safety as it relates to rapid prototype development.

Strong knowledge of prototyping environments.

Knowledge of AI in prototyping environments.

Strong presentation and public speaking skills.

Applied experience using Lean Startup methodology is preferred.

Experience with Launching/Building a Startup is preferred.

Compensation And Benefits

At San Diego State University, we value our team members and offer a competitive salary that reflects your qualifications and experience. Our comprehensive benefits package supports well-being and work-life balance.

Generous Leave Benefits: 15 paid holidays, 24 vacation days, and 12 sick days per year.

Retirement Security: CalPERS defined benefit pension plan with reciprocity with the UC Retirement Plan, plus retiree healthcare benefits.

Comprehensive Health Coverage: Health, dental, and vision plans at no or low cost.

Educational Opportunities: CSU system fee reduction program for yourself or a qualified dependent.

Voluntary Benefits: Auto & Home Insurance, Life and Disability Insurances, Legal Plan, Pet Insurance, and ScholarShare 529 Plan.

The expected hiring salary for this position ranges from $108,000 to $118,000 annually.

SDSU Values
At SDSU, our diversity gives us power and benefits every member of our community. SDSU provides equal opportunity for all in education and employment, and we encourage open and respectful dialogue and responsible engagement. SDSU’s Principles of Community and Equal Opportunity statements apply to all university programs and activities.

Supplemental Information
Apply by June 2, 2026, to ensure full consideration. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed on an as-needed basis, and the position will remain open until filled. A background check is required for employment. SDSU is a smoke-free campus. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities.

Advertised:

May 19, 2026 (9:00 AM) Pacific Daylight Time

Applications close:

Open until filled

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