Evening Fabrication Studio Technician

Seattle University

10d • $29 • Onsite

About The Position

The part time Fabrication Studio Technician oversees daily operations in the multidisciplinary 6,600-square-foot Jon and Mary Shirley Fabrication Studio at Seattle University, supporting students, faculty, staff, and visiting artists working across sculpture, installation, and design. The part time Fabrication Studio includes dedicated areas and equipment for woodworking, sandblasting, metalworking, ceramics, casting, and digital fabrication, including industrial laser cutters, 3D printing, and CNC routers.

Key responsibilities include equipment, tool, and materials purchasing and maintenance using an assigned purchasing card, budget tracking, delivering safety training and maintaining written safety procedures, supervising student workers, and coordinating scheduling with academic departments to support both coursework and independent student work. The Technician ensures a safe, clean, supportive, and productive community studio environment, fosters a culture of best practices in fabrication safety, and provides technical and fabrication support for installation projects in college art galleries, classrooms, and visual arts spaces.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum two years of experience in fabrication studio environments.
• Technical proficiency in at least two of the following areas, with working knowledge across others:
• Woodshop: table saw, jointer, planer, bandsaw, routers, sanders, etc.
• Metal shop: MIG/TIG welding, plasma cutter, grinders, shears, etc.
• Digital fabrication: laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC routers.
• Ceramics/plaster: casting, mold making, ceramic firing, use of resins and silicone.
• Demonstrated experience delivering safety instruction and mentoring users.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work in environments involving noise, dust, and vibration.

Nice To Haves

• 3–5 years of relevant experience in an educational or makerspace environment.
• Advanced degree in Art, Design, Engineering, or related field.
• Experience using AutoCAD or other 3D modeling software.
• Familiarity with higher education environments, student-centered learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Experience with budget tracking, purchase management, and inventory management.
• CPR and First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Studio Operations and Safety Supervision:
• Monitor lab usage and maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free environment.
• Deliver safety training and demonstrations on all fabrication tools and materials.
• Maintain documentation including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), safety signage, purchase orders, tool reservations, and consumable supplies inventory.
• Track tool and process authorizations and ensure every individual’s compliance with safety protocols.
• Promote and model best practices in studio safety and foster a welcoming, inclusive maker environment.
• Cleaning and care of entire fabrication studio including specialty vendor coordination, dust collection system, and janitorial responsibilities.
• Instructional and Technical Support:
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to support class assignments and open studio time.
• Provide technical assistance and in-the-moment demonstrations to students using equipment such as table saws, band saws, laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC routers, welding systems, and casting materials.
• Serve as a resource for project planning, fabrication strategy, and tool/material selection for students, faculty, and staff.
• Equipment and Facility Maintenance:
• Monitor studio inventory; order tools, materials, and consumables using an assigned purchasing card.
• Track and document budget expenditures and material usage.
• Perform and document regular maintenance on machinery and tools.
• Coordinate service and repairs for specialized equipment.
• Maintain tool library and oversee appropriate storage and labeling of hazardous materials.
• Student Employee Supervision and Mentorship:
• Hire, train, and schedule student employees to support lab operations.
• Provide ongoing mentorship and ensure adherence to safety and operational policies.
• Support student employee development through technical skill-building and leadership opportunities.
• Administrative Support and Campus Engagement:
• Coordinate lab schedules in collaboration with academic departments and campus services.
• Support exhibitions and installations including BFA shows and other events.
• Communicate operational needs and updates with the Manager and Operations teams.
• Engage in professional development opportunities, both as recommended by supervisors and through self-initiated learning to support growth and performance.

Benefits

• Seattle University provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your total compensation package.
• Consistent with its fundamental Jesuit values, Seattle University offers a wide range of benefits designed to care for the whole person.
• Choose from three different medical plans, a dental, and vision insurance programs.
• Protect your income with life, short & long-term disability coverage.
• Plan for your future with up to a 10% employer contribution for retirement benefits, comprised of a 5% nonelective employer contribution and an additional dollar-for-dollar match of your voluntary contributions up to a maximum of 5%.
• You may also take advantage of 100% paid tuition benefits for the employee and dependents, a subsidized transportation benefit, a wellness program with free access to an onsite fitness facility, and a wide variety of campus events.
• Enjoy a generous holiday schedule, including a paid Holiday break closure in December, vacation and paid sick leave, and paid community service leave.
• For more information explore the Benefits website at: https://www.seattleu.edu/hr/benefits/

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees