Advanced Prototyping Center Tech Associate, Machine Shop (Cleantech Incubator, Non-profit)

Position Summary

The APC Tech Associate is the primary technical lead and owner of client-facing Job Shop projects and technical operations within the Advanced Prototyping Center (APC), managing up to 2 direct reports. LACI is seeking a self-starting, proactive individual that will drive the evaluation and testing of prototypes, oversee the technical work and viability of the labs and shops, and actively supports project evaluation, quoting, and applications engineering.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end execution of Job Shop and client projects including Project Initiation with clients (evaluate and test prototype concepts for technical feasibility), Project Management (source materials, support design phases, assembly/finishing), and Project Closing (final payment requests, coordinate pickup) through Asana to manage job shop workflow.

• Collaborate with APC and LACI leadership to develop resources, materials, and scheduling plans; proactively track progress, flag risks/issues, recommend solutions, and escalate appropriately.

• Conduct exercises like 5 Why Analysis and Root Cause studies to thoroughly observe and correct issues and improve quality.

• Develop, maintain, and regularly update training materials and qualification processes for safe and effective use of APC equipment. Manage hands-on training and user qualification across equipment, and conduct training sessions for staff, interns, and APC users/members on equipment operation, safety protocols, and best practices.

• Provide ongoing technical support to members: assist with problem-solving, ideation, manufacturability reviews, prototype testing, prototyping advice, and general fabrication guidance. Oversee and optimize the job hazard analysis (JHA) process to guarantee 100% completion and efficiency for all users.

• Oversee shop and lab layout effectiveness and enable the safe movement and organization of equipment and materials. Conduct routine preventive maintenance, minor repairs, and upkeep on APC equipment in all labs and shops. Provide hands-on technical support and oversight as-needed for specific equipment maintenance tasks (e.g., saw blade replacements, coolant management, 3D printer upkeep).

• Adhere to and help enforce LKIC APC guidelines for hazardous materials (Hazmat) and hazardous waste management/disposal.

• Work with the APC team to maintain and analyze key operational metrics, safety incidents, equipment usage/downtime, and performance data; prepare clear reports and actionable recommendations for workflow/process improvements. Conduct quarterly internal compliance audits; document findings, support development and tracking of corrective actions.

• Safety, Policy & Resource Support: Model and promote a strong safety culture; uphold and suggest updates to APC House Rules, Job Hazard Analysis forms, Standard Operating Procedures, and safety protocols.

Requirements

• 1–3 years hands-on experience operating/maintaining equipment in a machine shop, makerspace, or lab.

• 1–2 years experience leading or supervising technical staff in a shop or lab environment.

• Project management experience, preferably in a job shop, prototyping, manufacturing, or technical service setting, with demonstrated ability to manage client projects from intake to delivery.

• Proficiency with project management platforms (Asana or similar), Google Workspace, and basic workflow automation.

• Familiarity with CAD tools (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, CorelDRAW or equivalents) for design review, file preparation, and applications engineering. Working knowledge of CNC mills, manual mills, waterjets, lasers, 3D printers, saws, grinders, and other digital fabrication tools (operation, setup, basic programming, maintenance).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience delivering technical training and/or qualification programs to assess readiness of users to operate critical equipment.

• Strong customer service skills with emphasis on clear communication, expectation management, and problem resolution.

• Hands-on expertise in 3D printing, laser cutting, CNC machining, welding/finishing, hardware assembly, and prototype testing/validation.

• Passion for sustainability, creative prototyping, and environmental stewardship.

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, with excellent critical-path, multi-tasking, and team-leadership abilities.