Manager of Digital Fabrication, Technologies, and Research

Overview

The Manager of Digital Fabrication, Technologies, and Research at Princeton University's School of Architecture is responsible for all aspects of operations of the School's workshops, and fabrication and research laboratories. Reporting to the Dean and School Administrator/Department Manager, the incumbent directs the efforts supporting the practices and process of analog and digital fabrication and other related research technologies at the School.

This individual manages two fully equipped facilities designated for building models, architectural and design fabrication, and exploring building systems, and the equipment, technologies, and materials at these facilities. The incumbent also works with students in model construction and studio projects, providing consultation and support to students and faculty at the School. The Manager supports and participates in undergraduate and graduate structures courses, and is responsible for all training and compliance matters related to the use of the School's workshops and fabrication and research laboratories, including but not limited to mandatory safety training on equipment and tools. This person supervises two senior laboratory technicians and oversees a program of graduate student employees, or shop monitors.

The position is full time and may require some weekend and evening hours during the academic year.

Responsibilities
Architecture Workshop, Digital Fabrication and Research Laboratory Oversight:

• Oversees of operations of the School of Architecture Laboratory and Laboratory of Embodied Computation facilities (which are machine/wood shops, fabrication laboratories, and research facilities), including analog fabrication equipment and tools, and rapid prototyping/digital fabrication technology (such as laser cutters, CNC milling machine, 3D printers, 5-axis robotic arm). Oversees the safe operation of the architectural labs, shop, and research facilities at the School, including the handling of building materials, chemicals, equipment, and power tools.
• Manages the scheduling, purchasing, and processing material deliveries to the facilities.
• Spearheads the development, review, and implementation of safety procedures for the School's workshops and laboratories. This includes being up to date with OSHA standards for workspace, equipment, and materials and their timely communications to faculty, staff, and students.
• Oversees the orientation and safety training program, within compliance of University policies and OSHA standards. This includes thorough documentation and compliance to ensure the safety and security of the facilities, users, and teaching and research activities conducted therein.

Technology and Equipment Management, Instruction, and Support:

• Collaborates and consults with faculty, students, researchers and practitioners on the digital fabrication of models, prototypes and built work for academic and research projects.
• Provides technical instruction and guidance to students on the use of design tools and programs in coordination with course requirements and learning outcomes as determined by the faculty.
• Manages the acquisition, installation, operation, maintenance and repair of conventional and computerized shop/studio equipment.
• Coordinates tools and materials inventory, waste management, usage fees, and compliance of prescribed policies and practices regarding shop operations.
• Manages maintenance contracts, maintenance routines and maintenance best practices for all fabrication equipment.

Staff Supervision:

• Responsible for a staff of 2 senior laboratory technicians (1 full-time and 1 part-time technician), and a program of 16-20 graduate student-level shop monitors, the manager supervises the staff and student employees.
• Responsible for the hiring, performance reviews, and termination of the technical staff.
• Oversees the shop monitor program, which includes recruitment, training, and general supervision of student employees who work in the labs and shops.

Other:

• May occasionally instruct laboratory activities or graduate and undergraduate structures/building technology classes that use the labs and shops to carry out projects.
• With the Department Manager and Dean, oversees all construction projects within the confines of the School of Architecture facilities.
• Manages some building services tasks and projects with the School administration, as needed (exhibition set-up, summer building clean-out, etc.).

Qualifications

Required:

• A Master's degree in Architecture, Industrial Design, Visual or Fine Arts, or related field with significant experience in conventional and digital fabrication methods.
• Strong building and model-making skills, as well as basic construction and shop skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge in some, if not all, of the following areas: wood technology machinery/fabrication, metal fabrication, digital and analogue techniques, digital fabrication and rapid prototyping and CNC equipment and technology (lasercutter, CNC router, robotic arm, etc), material handling and OSHA standards.
• Knowledge and experience with Arduino, physical computation, circuitry, or programming. Understanding of digital computation software (2D-3D software) and ability to read and create CAD files.
• Ability to perform with a high degree of concentration, requiring acute hand/eye coordination, and to lift 50 pounds or more Strong interpersonal and communications skills, including the ability to communicate well orally and in writing, and to work effectively with faculty, students, staff, and others with tact, discretion, and courtesy.
• Must be well-organized, flexible, and able to work in diverse situations and with demanding deadlines. Able to work efficiently and calmly under pressure.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, problem solve, and provide high quality support to faculty, staff, and students and programs. Experience and ability to supervise staff and student workers.
• Occasionally night and weekend work is required.

Preferred:

• Professional Degree in Architecture. Driver's license.
• Significant experience using and/or managing analog and digital fabrication tools and equipment in a workshop environment, preferably within an academic or research setting
• Experience working in a fabrication lab or other maker facility.
• Dedicated work experience in such fabrication technologies as 3D printing, CNC routing, laser cutting, and robotic arms. Experience using scripting, coding, and other software tools for digital and/or fabrication designs.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. EEO IS THE LAW

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