Exhibit Fabricator

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Create and install working prototypes and proof-of-concepts for new exhibit components to test for usability, durability and safety.
• Participate in observation and evaluation of prototype testing; contribute to improvements, troubleshooting, and problem solving.
• Contribute to design development and propose practical solutions as needed.
• Create and install permanent exhibit components from frame to finish, including structural, functional, and decorative elements.
• Observe performance and condition of existing exhibit components, and propose and perform fabrication and finish solutions for a range of repair, maintenance, and upgrade needs.
• Participate in exhibit installations/de-installations of new exhibits, exhibit upgrades, and traveling exhibits.
• Comply with documented operating procedures and maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.
• Contribute to the general maintenance of tools and equipment.
• Load/unload materials from trucks and help to keep the Exhibits Lab stocked with materials and supplies.
• Exercise extreme care in ensuring all construction is safe for visitors and staff.
• Contribute to estimating project costs and timelines, and find solutions appropriate to project budgets.
• Participate constructively as a member of a collaborative team.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 5 years of work experience and training in a cabinet shop or equivalent; a focus on custom fabrication and installation.
• Interest and experience in making quirky things: unusual shapes, unusual combinations of materials, and very particular functional requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering, production, and shop drawings, and make and assemble parts as required.
• Knowledge of standard fabrication and construction methods, hardware, and materials.
• Advanced skills in cabinetry, carpentry, plastics fabrication, and/or metalworking; mastery of working with hand and power tools and standard shop machinery.
• Knowledge of routine maintenance and repair of standard shop equipment.
• Competency in engineering of mechanical and electro/mechanical interactive exhibits; familiarity with gears, sprockets, and motors.
• Capability in model-making, sketching, and rendering skills.
• Ability to understand educational and experience objectives, and ensure these goals are met in addition to the mechanical/technical and safety demands of a project.
• Ability to juggle multiple projects simultaneously, organize work load independently, and accomplish assigned tasks with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work safely, efficiently, and accurately, and to match the level of finish to the goals of the project (prototypes do not need the same level of precision, durability and finish as permanent components).

ADDITIONAL PREFERRED SKILLS

• Familiarity with industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, Sketch-up).
• Ability to operate CNC router, 3-D printer, and laser cutter, inclusive of generating digital files.
• Knowledge of current electronic technology used in exhibit design: Arduino, Raspberry Pi, RFID readers, etc., and the incorporation of these components into exhibit designs.
• Valid Driver’s License.