Lab and Makerspace Design Specialist

Chapman University Careers•Irvine, CA

About The Position

Fowler Engineering is looking for a collaborative and goal-oriented Design Specialist passionate about technology and its implications for making, as well as improving accessibility to this technology. The Lab and Makerspace Design Specialist position is expected to begin this winter and will assist in the day-to-day activities and operation of the DCI and instructional labs while fostering an inclusive learning environment. This position is one of two technical positions along with a makerspace coordinator who reports to the Makerspace Manager. The Makerspace Design Specialist will ensure the smooth and collaborative operation of the DCI Lab makerspaces and instructional labs. This includes technical support and mentorship for students, staff, and faculty in various interdisciplinary course-related projects, extracurricular activities, and academic research. The Specialist will support the development and coordination of workshops for both classes and co-curricular activities. Following all safety and operating protocols, the Specialist will help manage and mentor student workers. Additionally, the Specialist will maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment and perform maintenance on equipment to ensure it is functional and safe to minimize disruption of daily use.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience and abilities in relevant technical areas, whether through an advanced degree or extensive practice.
Experience working with varying skill levels and diverse backgrounds.
Ability to foster an inclusive learning environment.
Experience with digital and analog electronics test bench equipment, Arduino programming, breadboarding, and circuit design
Possess knowledge and experience with digital fabrication prototyping equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, large format printing, and woodworking equipment, and helping others with these technologies.
Flexibility and curiosity to maintain a thriving makerspace environment as techniques and tools change over time.
Ability to learn, demonstrate and enforce proper health and safety procedures and regulations.
Highly motivated, energetic individual with attention to detail and ability to develop innovative and modern solutions to the training and support of students, personnel, and equipment.
Enjoy working, guiding, and interacting with students and the broader campus community.
Excellent oral and written English language skills with the ability to interact with diverse individuals and groups at all organizational levels, both inside and outside of the University.
Ability to perform general clerical functions critical to the maintenance and efficiency of the facilities and equipment.

Responsibilities

In collaboration with the Makerspace Manager and technical staff, support the day-to-day operations and activities in the Fowler School of Engineering ( FSE ) Design / Create / Innovate Lab makerspaces and instructional labs.
Create an open, positive and welcoming space for students, faculty and staff at all levels of making, design, and innovation experience.
Support and mentor varied interdisciplinary projects, course-related projects, extracurricular activities, and academic research related to manufacturing/making facilities and programs.
Ensure safe and efficient daily operation of the facilities.
Follow all safety policies, procedures and programs; act as a responsible party for individual safety and the safety of others.
Establish and facilitate training on equipment, technology, and safety.
Collaboratively support the development and coordination of workshops, events and projects for classes and co-curricular activities which requires flexibility and broad knowledge of equipment and materials.
Maintain equipment, tools and software to ensure functionality and safety.
Maintain inventory of supplies and equipment in both the makerspace and instructional labs.
Assist in the management, mentorship and training of student workers. Help them be effective facilitators and mentors in the spaces.
Support the oversight and management of the budget and planned expenditures for the space.
Advise on new equipment purchases by upholding a working knowledge of equipment and tools that are becoming most useful or necessary.
Attend meetings, including facilities coordination and risk management meetings, as required and report back to the Makerspace Manager and FSE Leadership.
Coordinate with leadership, staff and various university departments on space use and allocation, special events, storage, and facilities access.
Track and update database of user training and access to the DCI Lab and associated spaces