Fabrication Lab Technician

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.
JOB PURPOSE:
Oversee and supervise the Architecture Fabrication Laboratory (FAB Lab) and Fab Lab Instructional sections, interfacing between faculty and student assistants as well as students and staff.
SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:
Involves no responsibility or authority for the direction of others except for supervising student assistants.
NATURE AND SCOPE:
Serves as liaison between class instructors and students to coordinate FAB Lab instructional sessions with topics covered during lectures. Additionally, serves as a helper and provider of topics for student projects.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Maintain, organize, and oversee equipment and supplies related to teaching and learning in the Fab Lab.
• Support Fab Lab teaching by ensuring equipment is properly operated and maintained.
• Ensure that equipment, Fab Lab facilities, and procedures meet NAAB accreditation standards.
• Train faculty, staff, and students on the safe and correct operation of Fab Lab equipment.
• Coordinate with instructors and teaching assistants on the implementation of the Fab Lab curriculum.
• Performs and maintains inventory of Fab Lab supplies and equipment.
• Assist students and faculty for projects and Fab Lab activities.
• Support research, teaching, and co-curricular activities.
• Implement and enforce safety rules and requirements in coordination with the CEA Safety Officer and other relevant personnel to ensure the safe operation of the Fab Lab.
• Maintain Fab Lab equipment and implement equipment and software upgrades as appropriate.
• Work with chairs, faculty, and staff as a productive team member.
• Carry out other assigned duties as designated by the direct supervisor, department chair, and associate dean for academic affairs.
• Interfaces with the departmental Space and Facilities Committee.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.
• Tracks Fab Lab issues reported by faculty and students.
• Proactive issue resolution through tool repair, supply stocking, external services coordination.
• Develops and maintains annual operating/maintenance budget for effective FabLab operations.
• Develops relationships with local wood suppliers and woodworking organizations to optimize pricing for students.
• Maintain and operate laser cutters and 3D printers.
• Don proper personal protective equipment such as masks and respirators for prolonged periods when necessary.
• Enforce safety rules during instruction and project work.
• Supports the operations and utilization of the maker space.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Advanced applied knowledge and skill in utilizing Fab Lab shop machines and equipment, and basic computer literacy, including high level of competence with digital representation Microsoft365 Collaboration tools.
• Competence in oral and written English.
• Good interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Ability to process university paperwork efficiently and expeditiously.
• Ability to establish, maintain and promote harmonious and effective work relationships with students, faculty, staff, University officials, officials of funding agencies and the public.
• The incumbent in the position must keep his/her Fab Lab skills and knowledge up to date through self-education, professional development, and additional courses/workshops as needed and required by the department chair and associate dean for academic affairs.
• Demonstrates consistent attention to detail.
• Observes the policies of the University and College of Engineering and Architecture.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
High School diploma and/or Vocational/Technical certificate.
5 years' experience with woodworking and associated tools (Planer, Jointer, Table saw, Miter Saw, Band Saw, Lathe, Router, Dust Collection)
Literate in CAD and REVITT, or a demonstrated ability to learn these software tools.