Assistant Shop Director chez Carnegie Mellon University

The Carnegie Mellon University School of Architecture (CM-A) seeks a thorough, detail-oriented individual to perform as a Full-time Assistant Shop Director. This position reports to Shop Director Jon Holmes, and is primarily (~75%) responsible for supervising use of the shop by undergraduate and graduate students, staff and faculty of the School of Architecture.  Additional responsibilities (~25%) include support of the dFab Lab, our digital fabrication shop, managed by Terry Hritz. 

The Shop is equipped with a range of conventional wood and metal-working equipment including table, miter and band saws, stationary sanders, lathes, milling machines, and assorted hand tools.  

The dFab lab is equipped with laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC milling machines, robotic arms, and other digitally-controlled fabrication tools.

This is a full-time position with a weekly schedule of 37.5 hours, and is eligible for full-time benefits. Work will be performed during afternoons and evenings, including some weekend hours, from August to May. The summer schedule can vary.

Responsibilities of this position include:

• Ensure that all users follow safe practices consistent with the shop’s policies, and with guidelines established and published by the University's office of Environmental Health and Safety, during use of the shop or any of its potentially hazardous tools, equipment, or other resources.  

• Augment and reinforce standard shop instruction provided to undergraduates, and provide special orientations to graduates, transfer students, and guests that are tailored to their particular needs.

• Provide guidance to students regarding execution of projects assigned by faculty within the school of architecture, and assist where appropriate , e.g. by making jigs and fixtures, and by providing instruction in the use of specialized tools and machinery.

• Participate in the maintenance and minor repair of shop tools and equipment, and promptly alert the director to dangerous conditions or unresolved mechanical problems. Common maintenance tasks include sharpening of hand tools, installation and adjustment of saw blades, and changing of abrasives on various powered sanders.

• Keep the shop facility clean, orderly, and organized. This includes daily sweeping and vacuuming and emptying of cans and scrap bins.

• Monitor and record the sale of materials, assist in tracking inventory of expendable supplies, restock shelves and racks, and alert the director to impending shortages.

• From time-to-time, complete special projects and perform tasks for the general good of the school as determined by the head, and the shop director.

• Assist the Shop Director in training and coordination of student monitors in the completion of the above responsibilities.

• Assist the dFab Lab Manager in executing some projects in the Digital Fabrication Lab.

We are looking for someone who can prioritize work, manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously, interact effectively and courteously with people at all levels of the organization, and maintain accurate and detailed records. A successful candidate will have excellent reasoning, problem solving and communication skills.

Qualifications:

• At least 1-3 years of relevant work experience

• Knowledge of the safe use of woodworking machines and portable power tools

• Experience with machine set up, adjustment, and blade installation

• Experience using and sharpening traditional hand tools

• Experience with regular machine maintenance and basic mechanical and electrical repairs

• Ability to set up and use equipment needed to perform responsibilities

• Experience with Digital Fabrication equipment (Laser Cutters, CNC Routers, 3D Printers, etc.) and relevant software.

• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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