Fabrication Technican - College of Design Workshop

The Fabrication Technician instructs and oversees College of Design students, faculty, and staff as they use fabrication resources to conduct coursework and academic research. The
position helps foster a safe and welcoming working environment for shop users from all design
disciplines and of all levels of skill.

Fabrication capabilities include traditional wood and metal working, and digital fabrication equipment. The position consults with users and teaches appropriate and safe use of materials and tools to help them realize their designs. Work tasks vary day-to-day depending upon curricular needs. Work hours are established semester-to-semester depending upon curriculum. This is a second-shift position with shifts ending at 9 PM, potentially including Sundays.

We are committed to attracting candidates from historically underrepresented groups, knowing that diversity enriches the academic experience and provides a knowledge base for innovation. The Art Research Studio Technician reports to the Fabrication Lab Director.

Responsibilities

Train, Supervise and Assist Design Fabrication Users and Student Technicians - 80%

• Communicate with and effectively train, guide, and support diverse clientele with a broad array of identities and skills in a professional and productive manner.
• Demonstrate safe, effective shop practices and oversee utilization of facility and equipment, including safety protocols.
• Determine user and project eligibility for area access and provide instruction.
• Fulfill service bureau requests for digital fabrication equipment, including 3D printing and CNC cutting.
• Understand, follow, and facilitate safe work practices as well as standing policies and procedures.
• Train and mentor student technicians in development and advancement of technical proficiencies, communicating job responsibilities and performance expectations.
• Identify and assign tasks and projects for student shop technicians.

Fabrication Lab Development & Special Projects - 10%

• Assist with the development of training materials for area equipment and processes, accounting for diverse ways of learning and knowing.
• Expand technical capabilities through self-directed projects.
• Contribute to the development of area policies and procedures.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings.
• Design, construct and install physical improvements to work environments, including
  those that improve accessibility.
• Collaborate with and support other departments when fabrication resources are requested.

Routine Maintenance, Housekeeping and Equipment Troubleshooting - 10%

• Maintain familiarity with tools and equipment required by users.
• Handle routine maintenance and housekeeping of the facility without direct supervision.
• Discuss equipment, facility and material concerns with the Fabrication Director and parties requesting work on special projects.
  

Required

• High school graduation plus two years of work experience in educational or fabrication environment/s or college coursework in a relevant field.
• Working knowledge of fabrication materials and the operation and maintenance of a wide variety of fabrication tools and equipment.
• Ability to instruct students, graduate assistants, and faculty in safe procedures for power and hand tool operation.
• Commitment to continual learning. Curiosity about new materials, tools, and methods.
• Comfortable learning alongside students and admitting when unsure of an answer.
• High levels of social and emotional intelligence in order to effectively and courteously communicate with diverse groups of people at all levels of the organization.
• Exceptional level of commitment to customer service and ability to communicate clearly and maintain composure when faced with difficult situations.
• Ability to take initiative, prioritize work, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and problem solve.
• Familiarity with Google suite. Demonstrated ability to learn computer software to an intermediate or advanced level.
• Wide range of mobility to perform minor repairs on equipment, stand for long periods of time, lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 50lbs.
• Understanding of and strict adherence to PPE standards and safety practices when handling hazardous materials or being exposed to noise and dust.

Preferred

• Experience in an educational setting demonstrating machine operations to individuals and small groups.
• Experience supervising student employees or serving in a lead-worker capacity.
• Working knowledge of 3D printing and laser cutting hardware and software.
• Experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, such as: Rhino, AutoCAD, Fusion, Solidworks, or similar.

The College of Design (CDes) fabrication shops include a full wood shop, metal shop, and digital fabrication lab. Students in CDes have access to the full range of fabrication tools and equipment to enrich their education through hands-on making. Fabrication staff provide expert instruction and oversight of equipment, prioritizing safety and cultivating a welcoming environment where students of all skill levels can learn. Successful Fabrication Technicians demonstrate high levels of both technical and social skills.

Pay Range: $24.06 to $27.70 (Union step 1 - 8); depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100%, 9-month continuing appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume.

To be considered for this role please submit the following documents:

1. Cover letter;
2. Resume; and
3. Contact information for three references.

If you're initially unable to upload any of those three documents, please submit your application and then go back into your "My Activities" page to upload the document(s) at that time.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.