Senior Exhibit Fabricator

Monterey Bay Aquarium • Monterey, CA

96d • $32 - $39

About The Position

At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that celebrates and values diversity. We firmly believe that having a team of diverse backgrounds and voices, working together, increases our capacity to serve our visitors and fulfill our mission. We welcome people from all walks of life into our team and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply. Priority deadline for applications is November 30, 2025 at 5pm Pacific Time. Due to the volume of incoming applications, the role may be closed earlier than November 30, 2025. Job Summary: Under limited supervision, fabricate and repair exhibit components, ranging from graphics and cabinetry to complex models and electromechanical interactives; provide expertise to solve complex fabrication and maintenance problems thoroughly and efficiently, and the leadership skills to mentor and train other staff members; work on multiple projects simultaneously, and keep creative and complex fabrication and maintenance projects focused, on track, and in line with project goals and constraints; collaborate well with project managers, designers, and other interdivisional project teams, asking thoughtful and curious questions to be able to make recommendations and build appropriate solutions; this role has solid general fabrication and repair skills, along with specialty skills in either graphics, model and mold making, scenic painting, mechanical design, or electronics; perform other duties as required.

Requirements

• 4-5 years hands-on experience in Exhibit Production techniques or equivalent industry.
• Skilled in use of hand tools and power tools.
• Professional knowledge on use of specialist machinery such as table saws, miter saws, planers, CNC operation and software knowledge.
• Strong drive for continuation of advanced skills training.
• Ability to train juniors in use of tools and Exhibit production techniques.
• Inherent ability to adhere to all work safety regulations.
• Advanced computer skills with experience in project tracking software.
• Competent user of scissor lift and other aerial lifts and forklift.
• Certificate in confined space requirements.
• Ability to work flexible hours when needed including nights and weekends.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to identify future training needs.
• Ability to lead, advocate for and work within Aquarium and Exhibition Division Core values.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily maintenance rounds on visitor-facing exhibit elements during pre-opening hours.
• Inspect and assess mechanical interactive issues, identify and communicate repairs and solutions.
• Make on-site repairs on exhibit components during morning rounds in the visitor spaces.
• Remove and/or coordinate removal of interactives necessary for repair in shops.
• Research and recommend repair solutions and preventative maintenance.
• Fabricate complex custom exhibit components using drawings and design criteria.
• Train other shop staff on tools, software, and safety procedures.
• Contribute to design solutions through sketches, samples, or written communication.
• Create 2D and 3D vector files for CNC, vinyl plotter, laser cutter, and other machinery.
• Track and respond to progress, review, and completion of project and maintenance tasks.
• Maintain and troubleshoot tools and equipment for fabrication and mold-making.
• Clean, maintain, organize and upgrade shops and storage areas.
• Seek out specialized training on software to drive CNC machinery.

Benefits

• Hourly Compensation Range Minimum: $32.36-$39.42 USD per hour.
• Starting rate will vary based on previous experience and relevant skills/knowledge set.

What This Job Offers

• Industry: Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions