Makerspace Technician 3

Job title: Makerspace Technician 3

About the Role The UC Makerspace is seeking a Makerspace Technician 3 to lead the in-person DIY prototyping lab, operate 3D printing services (FFF/FDM, SLA, SLS, and bound metal deposition), and support a community of student and community makers. Reporting to the Makerspace Director, the technician will manage projects, train users, and help ensure safe, effective access to shared equipment. The role emphasizes experiential learning and collaboration with UC faculty to advance curriculum and innovation.

What You'll Do

• Provide consultative technical and training support to 1819 Makerspace users.
• Manage multiple projects of moderate to advanced scope and complexity.
• Educate users on the safe, smart, and practical use of makerspace equipment, tools and software.
• Ensure all users firmly grasp safety and proper use of equipment, including developing, maintaining, and enforcing standard operating procedures in compliance with OSHA and EHS policies.
• Develop and provide hands-on experiential learning workshops that maximize user’s knowledge of materials, processes, and technologies.
• Coach the design and layout work necessary to fabricate objects from various materials.
• Expert level knowledge of fabrication in wood, metal, and plastics required.
• Advise and assist users with alterations in design to increase efficiency or aid in fabrication.
• Maintain equipment and facility, ensuring that they are clean, safe, and accessible to users.
• Participate in the recruitment, training, and mentoring of student employees in the 1819 Makerspace facility.
• Deliver excellent customer service and maintain clarity and composure when faced with difficult situations.
• Advise on the installation, configuration, and modification of equipment and associated software.
• Collaborate with UC faculty and administration to support curriculum and programming for the 1819 Makerspace.
• Provide custom design or fabrication services in their area of expertise.
• May lead small project teams and junior staff.
• Perform related duties based on departmental need.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Design, Art, or a related field.
• Nine (9) years of relevant education, experience and/or other specialized training can fulfill minimum education and experience requirements.
• Four (4) years of experience in operating and programming digital fabrication tools and use of CAD/CAM/slicing software: CNC machining, laser cutting, or 3-D printing.
• Minimum two (2) years: in a fabrication setting managing various fabrication tasks OR creating formal or informal learning.
• Ability to lead and train others while managing production queues.

Nice to Have

• Experience across a wide range of makerspace prototyping tools and methods.
• Demonstrated commitment to experiential education through teaching (formal or informal).
• Ability to lead small project teams and junior staff.