Job Abstract

Special Instructions to Applicants:

To apply, please provide a resumé and a detailed letter of interest outlining your skills and qualifications and how they align with this position at Rice Architecture. Application materials should also include a portfolio of fabrication experience, preferably in PDF format, to avoid formatting issues. Please also include contact information for three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Position Summary:

The Fabrication Director at the Rice University School of Architecture manages operations and strategic implementation of the newly expanded fabrication spaces and equipment housed in the newly completed William T. Cannady Hall for Architecture.

The ideal candidate for the Fabrication Director position will be a dynamic and innovative leader with cutting-edge expertise in fabrication tools, software, and creative processes. They will have a proven track record of working collaboratively with faculty, administration, and students to support fabrication-related teaching and research.

Workplace Requirements

This full-time position is on-site, exempt, and benefits-eligible. The salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. This position is exclusively on-site, necessitating all duties to be performed in person and on campus at the Rice School of Architecture.

Physical demands: Must be able to operate and manipulate workshop machinery and lift wood and metal materials. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs without assistance.

Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change. *Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements:

• Master’s degree
  • In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis.
• 4 years of related experience
  • In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education above and beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis.
• Skills:
  • Thorough working knowledge of 2D and 3D modeling software (including Rhino), digital fabrication machinery such as CNC routers, 3d printing, laser cutting, and/or robotics
  • Working knowledge of conventional wood and metal fabrication equipment
  • Strong written and communication skills and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely with diverse audiences
  • Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively with staff, faculty, students, and other professional colleagues
  • The ability to teach and mentor students, developing and leading instructional workshops and/or training on software and equipment
  • The ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously
  • The ability to supervise and manage student workers and staff

Preferences:

• Knowledge or experience in architectural model-making and building construction
• Teaching experience preferred
• Familiarity with Python and/or other programming language(s) preferred

Essential Functions:

• Ensures the appropriateness, effectiveness, and overall success of the fabrication lab and shop through rigorous quality assurance measures and strategic evaluation
• Designs and implements cutting-edge learning and performance support solutions, staying abreast of emerging instructional fabrication design and technology trends
• Takes the lead in managing complex projects, overseeing all phases from inception to evaluation, and providing guidance to a multidisciplinary team.
• Specifies and procures fabrication equipment in consultation with the faculty and administration
• Develops and leads workshops for students on fabrication equipment, software, and techniques, both independently and in courses at the request of faculty
• Provides expertise and supervision to students, assisting them in resolving technical problems, equipment use, and understanding available resources
• Collaborates with the exhibition manager, faculty, and artists to assist with fabrication needs

Additional Functions

• Responsible for the management and operations of all workshop and fabrication spaces, including all equipment and machinery
• Coordinates the availability of funds and oversees the shop and equipment budget
• Works collaboratively with faculty to support their research
• Identifies and supports software needs, coordinating with IT manager as needed
• Oversees the development and training on safety, use, and maintenance of the shop and equipment, including orientation sessions for new students, and provides support for advanced equipment as needed.
• Oversees the recruitment, training, and management of student shop workers and/or digital research assistants (DRAs)
• May supervise 1 – 3 staff members
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.