"Fabrication Underground Coordinator"

Job Summary

The Digital Media Commons (DMC) in the James and Anne Duderstadt Center (DC) at the University of Michigan (U-M) is looking for a qualified program coordinator who will maintain the DMC's Fabrication Underground Makerspace. You will manage activities at the Fabrication Underground; participate in the DMC Student Fellowship Program as a teacher and mentor; and consult with students and faculty members. You will report to the Ground Connections team manager, and will work onsite at the Duderstadt Center.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe and clean environment to ensure compliance with safety protocols in compliance with all federal, state, and university regulations and standards.
• Assist users with projects, providing guidance on the use of tools and equipment.
• Develop Fabrication Underground learning materials.
• Operate 3D printers, laser cutters, electronic workbenches, and other prototyping tools.
• Maintain and organize tools, equipment, and materials in the maker space.
• Coordinate ordering, inventory, storage, and maintenance of supplies essential to the operation of the lab.
• Troubleshoot and repair tools and equipment as needed.
• Reply to in-person, email, and telephone inquiries.
• Participate in Ground Connections team meetings and assist in meeting team goals.
• Collaborate with other team members to develop new programs and initiatives.
• Mentor and supervise student employees in collaboration with the student program manager.
• Create/lead activities to attract lab participants (e.g., lead workshops and equipment demonstrations).
• Maintain/provide content for Ground Connections web pages and/or the DC monthly newsletter.
• Provide information and statistics for the annual report.
• Perform other related tasks as requested.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience in Technical Support, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Education, or Computer Science.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with tools and equipment commonly found in makerspaces, such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and electronics.
• Familiarity with software used for design and prototyping.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to troubleshoot and maintain equipment, as well as help users solve technical issues that arise during projects.
• Teaching and Communication Skills: Comfortable leading workshops, training sessions, and providing one-on-one assistance to users of varying skill levels.
• Project Support: Experience in assisting with project planning, execution, and documentation. The ability to help users navigate the process from concept to completion.
• Organizational Skills: Capable of managing resources, maintaining inventory, and ensuring the makerspace is organized and safe for all users.
• Communication: Proficiency in written and verbal communication in English.
• Meet physical demands of the job to include lifting, carrying, reaching, pushing, and pulling objects, typically under 25 pounds.