POC (Proof of Concept) Lab Supervisor

Molex
life insurance, parental leave
United States, Illinois, Lisle
2222 Wellington Court (Show on map)
May 27, 2026
Your Job We are seeking a Technical Sample Build Supervisor to lead operations within our Proof of Concept (POC) Lab in Lisle, IL. In this role, you will oversee a team responsible for building prototype assemblies, engineering mock-ups, and sample products that support customer demonstrations, product development, and trade show initiatives. This position operates in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities and tight timelines, requiring strong leadership, technical judgment, and the ability to drive execution while maintaining quality and safety standards. Our Team You will be part of a highly collaborative team that partners closely with Product Design Engineering, Machine Shop, Procurement, and other cross-functional groups to bring prototype concepts to life. The POC Lab plays a critical role in enabling innovation by rapidly developing and delivering samples that support internal and external customers. What You Will Do Lead daily operations of the POC Lab, driving execution of prototype builds, sample assemblies, and engineering mock-ups Oversee end-to-end sample build processes including planning, material coordination, assembly, quality verification, and shipment readiness Partner with engineering and manufacturing teams to evaluate product designs, manufacturability, and prototype feasibility Collaborate with machine shop resources to determine optimal fabrication approaches and support rapid prototype development Drive continuous improvement in build processes, workflow efficiency, tooling, and lab organization Identify and implement opportunities to reduce cycle time, improve quality, and optimize labor utilization Support technical discussions related to product intent, materials, and assembly strategies Develop and lead a high-performing team by providing direction, coaching, and accountability Ensure adherence to safety standards and promote ergonomic and efficient work practices Who You Are (Basic Qualifications) Experience leading or supervising technical or manufacturing teams Hands-on experience in prototype builds, sample assembly, or manufacturing environments Ability to interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to make decisions in a fast-paced environment Experience coordinating work across cross-functional teams What Will Put You Ahead Previous experience working in a prototype, R&D lab, or low-volume/high-mix environment Working knowledge of CAD software for model review and design interpretation Familiarity with machine shop processes such as CNC machining, milling, grinding, or wire EDM Experience driving process improvement or continuous improvement initiatives Strong understanding of manufacturability and design-for-assembly principles For this role, we anticipate paying 70k to 90k. This role is eligible for variable pay, issued as a monetary bonus or in another form. At Koch companies, we are entrepreneurs. This means we openly challenge the status quo, find new ways to create value and get rewarded for our individual contributions. Any compensation range provided for a role is an estimate determined by available market data. The actual amount may be higher or lower than the range provided considering each candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, and geographic location. If you have questions, please speak to your recruiter about the flexibility and detail of our compensation Hiring Philosophy All Koch companies value diversity of thought, perspectives, aptitudes, experiences, and backgrounds. We are Military Ready and Second Chance employers. Learn more about our hiring philosophy here. Who We Are At Koch, employees are empowered to do what they do best to make life better. Learn how our business philosophy helps employees unleash their potential while creating value for themselves and the company. Our Benefits Our goal is for each employee, and their families, to live fulfilling and healthy lives. We provide essential resources and support to build and maintain physical, financial, and emotional strength - focusing on overall wellbeing so you can focus on what matters most. Our benefits plan includes - medical, dental, vision, flexible spending and health savings accounts, life insurance, ADD, disability, retirement, paid vacation/time off, educational assistance, and may also include infertility assistance, paid parental leave and adoption assistance. Specific eligibility criteria is set by the applicable Summary Plan Description, policy or guideline and benefits may vary by geographic region. If you have questions on what benefits apply to you, please speak to your recruiter. Additionally, everyone has individual work and personal needs. We seek to enable the best work environment that helps you and the business work together to produce superior results. Equal Opportunities Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. Except where prohibited by state law, some offers of employment are conditioned upon successfully passing a drug test. This employer uses E-Verify. Please click here for additional information. (For Illinois E-Verify information click here, aqui, or tu).