Fabrication Technician - University of Minnesota, College of Design

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The College of Design (CDes) fabrication shops include a full wood shop, metal shop, and digital fabrication lab. Students in CDes have access to the full range of fabrication tools and equipment to enrich their education through hands-on making. Fabrication staff provide expert instruction and oversight of equipment, prioritizing safety and cultivating a welcoming environment where students of all skill levels can learn. Successful Fabrication Technicians demonstrate high levels of both technical and social skills.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Fabrication Technician instructs and oversees College of Design students, faculty, and staff as they use fabrication resources to conduct coursework and academic research. The position helps foster a safe and welcoming working environment for shop users from all design disciplines and of all levels of skill. Fabrication capabilities include traditional wood and metal working, and digital fabrication equipment. The position consults with users and teaches appropriate and safe use of materials and tools to help them realize their designs. Work tasks vary day-to-day depending upon curricular needs. Work hours are established semester-to-semester dependent upon curriculum. This is a second-shift position with shifts ending at 9PM, potentially including Sundays. We are committed to attracting candidates from historically underrepresented groups, knowing that diversity enriches the academic experience and provides a knowledge base for innovation. The Art Research Studio Technician reports to the Fabrication Lab Director.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Train, Supervise and Assist Design Fabrication Users and Student Technicians - 80% Communicate with and effectively train, guide, and support diverse clientele with a broad array of identities and skills in a professional and productive manner. Demonstrate safe, effective shop practices and oversee utilization of facility and equipment, including safety protocols. Determine user and project eligibility for area access and provide instruction. Fulfill service bureau requests for digital fabrication equipment, including 3D printing and CNC cutting. Understand, follow, and facilitate safe work practices as well as standing policies and procedures. Train and mentor student technicians in development and advancement of technical proficiencies, communicating job responsibilities and performance expectations. Identify and assign tasks and projects for student shop technicians. Fabrication Lab Development & Special Projects - 10% Assist with the development of training materials for area equipment and processes, accounting for diverse ways of learning and knowing. Expand technical capabilities through self-directed projects. Contribute to the development of area policies and procedures. Attend and participate in staff meetings. Design, construct and install physical improvements to work environments, including those that improve accessibility. Collaborate with and support other departments when fabrication resources are requested. Routine Maintenance, Housekeeping and Equipment Troubleshooting - 10% Maintain familiarity with tools and equipment required by users. Handle routine maintenance and housekeeping of the facility without direct supervision. Discuss equipment, facility and material concerns with the Fabrication Director and parties requesting work on special projects.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required High school graduation plus two years of work experience in educational or fabrication environment/s or college coursework in a relevant field. Working knowledge of fabrication materials and the operation and maintenance of a wide variety of fabrication tools and equipment. Ability to instruct students, graduate assistants, and faculty in safe procedures for power and hand tool operation. Commitment to continual learning. Curiosity about new materials, tools, and methods. Comfortable learning alongside students and admitting when unsure of an answer. High levels of social and emotional intelligence in order to effectively and courteously communicate with diverse groups of people at all levels of the organization. Exceptional level of commitment to customer service and ability to communicate clearly and maintain composure when faced with difficult situations. Ability to take initiative, prioritize work, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and problem solve. Familiarity with Google suite. Demonstrated ability to learn computer software to an intermediate or advanced level. Wide range of mobility to perform minor repairs on equipment, stand for long periods of time, lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 50lbs. Understanding of and strict adherence to PPE standards and safety practices when handling hazardous materials or being exposed to noise and dust. Preferred Experience in an educational setting demonstrating machine operations to individuals and small groups. Experience supervising student employees or serving in a lead-worker capacity. Working knowledge of 3D printing and laser cutting hardware and software. Experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, such as: Rhino, AutoCAD, Fusion, Solidworks, or similar.