K-State Olathe is looking for a well-qualified individual to lead the LEAPS core facility operations by managing an advanced analytical laboratory, developing client-focused testing and research solutions, and supporting education, collaboration, and future staff growth at K-State Olathe. The Laboratory for Experimental Analytics & Platform Systems (LEAPS) is a newly established core facility at Kansas State University Olathe campus designed to support applied research, industry collaboration, and workforce development through chemical analytical science. LEAPS will provide access to advanced analytical platforms and scientific expertise for academic researchers, industry partners, and other clients seeking solutions in a variety of fields.
In this role, the LEAPS Director will build the LEAPS facility and then provide scientific, operational, and instructional leadership at K-State Olathe. This staff position will promote and advance the mission, goals, and objectives of the LEAPS program by developing laboratory capabilities, supporting applied research and technical service activities, strengthening partnerships with academic and industry clients, and expanding opportunities for workforce development in analytical science. The position manages day-to-day laboratory operations; ensures compliance with safety, quality, and documentation standards; supports installation, operation, and troubleshooting of scientific instrumentation; collaborates with academic and industry clients on fee-for-service testing, method development, and applied research projects; and has the opportunity to contribute to workforce development through technical education and training in analytical chemistry.
Kansas State University Olathe, founded in 2011, is the newest campus in the K-State system and serves Johnson County and the Greater Kansas City region. As a partner in the Johnson County Education and Research Triangle, the campus supports higher education through a unique local investment. K-State Olathe focuses on industry-ready education, professional development, applied research, and regional workforce needs, with programs and partnerships in areas such as food science, animal health, advanced manufacturing, supply chain, community health, and food as medicine. Through academic programs, professional workshops, research facilities, and event space, the campus connects students, professionals, businesses, and community partners to education and innovation that create real-world impact.
This position is Hybrid eligible. This position is hybrid eligible; however, we require the first 90 days to be 100% on-site to allow for training and onboarding. After that period, hybrid eligibility will be discussed with the supervisor. It is important to note that when duties require in-person attendance, this position requires a commitment to being in the office.
All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Requires a bachelor's degree and five years of relevant experience.
• Education beyond the minimum degree requirement may count toward required experience if deemed relevant by the hiring manager.
• The degree requirement ensures candidates possess the advanced theoretical knowledge, specialized methodologies and critical problem-solving skills essential for managing complex research operations and ensuring regulatory compliance. These competencies are typically developed and rigorously validated only through the comprehensive curriculum and intensive experiential learning inherent in a formal degree program.
• Valid driver's license
Preferred Qualifications:
• Master’s degree in chemistry, clinical laboratory science, medical laboratory science, or a closely related field from an accredited institution with 5+ years of directly relevant experience OR PhD in analytical chemistry or a related field with 3+ years of directly related experience
• Documented experience in collaborative projects in academic, industry, clinical, or laboratory settings
• Experience with electronic document management software
• Familiarity with compliance requirements related to laboratory-developed tests
• Experience teaching, training, or delivering technical content in professional education, workforce development, or academic settings
• Experience in staff development and mentoring
• Strong interpersonal communication, customer service, and conflict management skills
• Ability to write clear and understandable technical procedures
• Ability to compile and critically analyze information and then effectively communicate findings
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and solve problems in a complex laboratory environment
• Ability to effectively implement process changes in a complex environment
• Excellent work ethic and attention to detail
• Ability to multitask and reassess priorities as needs change
• Ability to manage change and conflict effectively in the workplace
• Commitment to safe laboratory practices and high-quality service
• Strong organizational skills and ability to lead under pressure
Additional Role Information and Specific Job Responsibilities:
Sponsorship eligibility:
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship
Please submit the following documents:
• Cover letter indicating your qualifications and interest in the position
• Resume
• Three professional references with email address and telephone number
Applications close on August 30, 2026. Applications will start being reviewed on or after the close date.
$115,000 - $120,000
Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.
Employees must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment. International candidates who require employer-sponsored work authorization are welcome to apply. Eligibility for visa sponsorship depends on several factors, including but not limited to, the job’s occupational requirements, specific duties, wage level, the candidate’s qualifications (such as degree field) and available departmental resources. As a result, not all positions or applicants will be eligible for sponsorship.
Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.
Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements. An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.
Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating from outside the state of Kansas you can visit the site to apply online for the program incentives.
Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.
Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.
The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.
*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.
To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.
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