Tech Hub Manager

Montana Technological University seeks a dynamic and experienced Tech Hub  Manager to lead operations and strategic development at the Energy, Environment & Innovation Field Campus (EEIFC), including the Underground Mine Education Center (UMEC). This role is central to the success of the Headwaters Tech Hub, a U.S. Department of Commerce-designated Regional Technology & Innovation Hub focused on developing smart photonic sensing systems for critical defense, resource management, and disaster prevention applications. The EEIFC will serve as a test bed for field testing new technologies that will be developed through the Tech Hub efforts. The EEIFC includes 150-acres of undeveloped, rugged terrain on the surface and approximately 3000 ft of underground workings at the UMEC.
The Tech Hub  Manager will report to the Department Head of Mining Engineering and oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of field-based technology development and testing initiatives. This includes managing infrastructure projects, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the EEIFC and UMEC.

Key Responsibilities:
•    Advance the strategic development of the EEIFC as a national test bed for field-scale innovation, supporting the deployment of smart photonic sensing systems, unmanned systems, critical materials recovery, and integrated energy and environmental technologies in alignment with the Headwaters Tech Hub mission and EO 14057 goals.
•    Lead and manage complex engineering and infrastructure projects at the EEIFC and UMEC, including planning, budgeting, scheduling, and risk management.
•    Coordinate with internal faculty, students, and external partners to support research, testing, and educational activities.
•    Provide mentorship and technical guidance to students and junior staff involved in Tech Hub projects (i.e. capstone design courses, undergraduate and graduate research projects)
•    Oversee installation, commissioning, and decommissioning of advanced sensing along with mining and mineral processing-related equipment.
•    Ensure compliance with safety protocols and environmental regulations.
•    Manage site logistics, including heavy equipment operations, underground access, and field testing coordination.
•    Maintain inventory and oversee procurement of technical equipment, PPE, and supplies.
•    Serve as the primary liaison between Montana Tech, federal agencies, and industry partners in regard to the capabilities of the EEIFC and future development.

Required Qualifications:
•    Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
•    Professional Engineer (PE) license or the ability to attain one.
•    Significant experience in engineering project management, with demonstrated success in leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering complex infrastructure or technology projects.
•    Experience in mining operations, heavy equipment, and infrastructure development.
•    Knowledge and experience in the safe handling and management of explosives, certification preferred.
•    Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
•    Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent projects in a dynamic, field-based environment.

Preferred Qualifications:
•    Advanced Degree (e.g. M.S., M.Eng., MBA) 
•    Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification
•    Experience working with federal agencies.
•    Familiarity with environmental compliance, CERCLA, and NEPA processes.
•    Experience with unmanned systems technology, remote sensing, or smart infrastructure systems.
•    Background in training, safety program development, and interagency collaboration.

Applications received by November 12, 2025 will be guaranteed full review and consideration.  Applications received after that date may be considered until an adequate applicant pool has been established.

For full consideration application materials must be complete.  
Please include: 

• Cover letter addressing qualifications,
• Resume
• Contact information for 3 professional references. 

 

For full consideration application materials must be complete.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check.

Montana Tech is committed to providing a working and learning environment free from discrimination. As such, the University does not discriminate in the admission, access to or conduct of its educational programs and activities nor in its employment policies and practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, creed, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), veteran status, gender, age, political beliefs, marital or family status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation or preference. In support of the University’s mission to be inclusive and diverse, applications from qualified minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are highly encouraged. Montana Tech makes accommodation for any known disability that may interfere with an applicant’s ability to compete in the hiring process or an employee’s ability to perform the duties of the job. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, Montana Tech provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.

To claim veteran’s preference please complete the employment (veteran’s) preference form located on the employment page and email to humanresources@mtech.edu. You must include the job title of the position in which you are applying.

Employment (veteran's) preference form

To request an accommodation for the application or interview, please contact Cathy Isakson 406-496-4380; cisakson@mtech.edu

Why Work at Tech?

Help meet the changing needs of society by providing a transformative student experience by helping develop leaders for tomorrow by advancing science, engineering and technology.

In addition, Montana Tech offers an attractive benefits package* which includes:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with low deductibles and comprehensive coverage.
• Generous employer contribution toward monthly health care benefits worth $6.08 per hour.
• 5.9% retirement employer contribution for eligible employees
• 11 Holidays per year
• 3 weeks of Annual Leave to start
• Generous sick leave policy that can be used for sick children, doctor and dentist appointments as well as bereavement.
• 6 credits of coursework free per year (fees not included)
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Reduced tuition for dependents after 4 months of employment for eligible employees
• Employee Assistance and a Wellness Program
• Optional Retirement Plan for eligible employees
• Possible remote work days with supervisor approval and eligible positions.

* Benefits are dependent on position type and terms and conditions of eligibility.

Montana Technological University, Butte Montana, is nestled in the Heart of the Rocky Mountains along the Continental Divide, where I-15 and I-90 intersect. We are home to the largest National Historic District in the country. Montana Tech is a special focus institution with a reputation for excellence and value. Montana Tech is ranked #1 in the nation by CollegeNET.

Salary : $6