Digital Fabrication Technician II

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Southern California (USC)'s School of Architecture is seeking an experienced Digital Fabrication Technician II to independently oversee the day-to-day operation of the CNC fabrication lab. The technician receives project submissions, consults with students on materials and fabrication methods, prepares CNC files, and performs setup, programming, and operation of the lab’s 3-axis CNC router and multi-axis CNC milling machines. CNC equipment is operated exclusively by lab staff; students prepare project files and materials for fabrication but do not operate CNC machinery. This position is also responsible for maintaining the CNC equipment and lab, supporting fabrication needs for academic coursework and special projects, and provide support to the School’s Laser Cutting and 3D Printing Labs as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience
Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience independently programming, setting up and operating CNC milling/routing equipment
Demonstrated experience with multi-axis CNC Routers (Haas or comparable preferred)
Proficient with Rhino and Mastercam, or comparable CAD/CAM software
Experience translating digital design models into successful CNC fabrication workflows
Ability to independently troubleshoot CNC machining, tooling, fixturing and programming issues
Knowledge of materials, cutting tools and safe shop practices
Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills
Must possess the ability to safely perform the physical work required of all duties, including manual dexterity, agility, strength and coordination
This position requires standing for extended periods, working with industrial equipment, and performing routine physical tasks associated with CNC operations
Frequently: stand, walk, bend, reach above shoulder level, use keyboard/mouse, perform tasks requiring hand dexterity, hand twisting, and simple grasping; lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 lbs. unassisted; perform light to moderate pushing/pulling; move equipment and materials; and work in outdoor environments
Occasionally: sit, crouch/squat, climb, power grasping, and heavy pushing/pulling
Must be able to work occasional weekdays/weeknights, holidays as needed beyond regularly scheduled hours
Deliver excellent student service and maintain clarity and composure when faced with difficult situations
Minimum Education: High School or equivalent Specialized/technical training
Minimum Experience: 2 years
Minimum Field of Expertise: Knowledge of mechanics, shop mathematics, properties of metals & plastics, & layout & machining procedures. Must communicate with faculty, researchers, engineers & students on mechanical matters.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a university fabrication lab, architecture school, design studio, or similar educational shop environment
Three (3) or more years of professional CNC fabrication experience preferred, including independent project support and advanced troubleshooting
Experience working directly with students, faculty and designers on fabrication projects
Familiarity with laser cutting, additive manufacturing, and other digital fabrication technologies
Experience supporting architectural fabrication, model making, furniture fabrication, exhibitions, or design-build projects
Experience in a makerspace or physical computing environment using specialized fabrication technologies and equipment
Experience with robotic fabrication systems, including KUKA robots or comparable industrial robotic platforms

Responsibilities

Manage the daily operation of the CNC fabrication lab
Serve as the primary operator for all CNC equipment
Consult with students to review project goals, materials, fabrication methods and production schedules
Evaluate Rhino models and digital files for CNC manufacturability and recommend modifications when needed
Independently program, set up and operate the CNC equipment using Mastercam and Rhino
Determine appropriate tooling, fixturing methods, and order of operations for student projects
Coordinate fabrication schedules and prioritize projects to meet academic deadlines while managing multiple concurrent fabrication requests
Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and routine servicing of CNC equipment
Support lab improvement projects through fabrication, assembly and installation
Maintain tool library, consumable inventory, and shop documentation
Assist Laser Cutting and 3D Printing operations as needed
Perform other duties as assigned