Digital Fabrication Technologist, McEwen School of Architecture

at  Laurentian University

QUALIFICATIONS

• University degree required in Architecture, Industrial Design, Engineering or a related digital field, or a combination of education (diplomas or degrees);
• -5 years of related experience in co-op education or internship placements;
• Extensive background in architecture with an architecture degree would be a further asset;
• Proficiency in a variety of digital modeling environments (Rhinoceros, Blender, Autodesk Products, etc.)
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software;
• Proficiency in the use of digital fabrication equipment including laser cutters, 3D printers and CNC technologies;
• Proficiency with robotic technologies and associated software;
• Proficiency with other advanced manufacturing technologies;
• Proficiency with parametric software platforms (i.e. Grasshopper);
• Familiarity with electronic prototyping technologies;
• Knowledge of programming languages;
• Knowledge of digital modeling technologies employed in Architecture is preferred;
• Knowledge of Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act; WHMIS training;
• A record of ‘Research Creation’ would be a further asset;
• Ability to work unsupervised and as part of a team;
• Excellent time management and organizational skills with ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities, proactive;
• Demonstrated ability to exercise patience in the execution of day-to-day activities;
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with ability to engage co-workers, researchers, students and faculty to best manage client relationships; and
• Ability to work fluently, orally and in writing in both official languages, French and English or willingness to attend French language training will be required; knowledge of an Indigenous language or demonstrated fluency is an asset.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT - AKI GAABIJIDEBENDAAGWAK

We would like to acknowledge the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850. We also further recognize that Laurentian University is located on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and that the City of Greater Sudbury, also includes the traditional lands of the Wahnapitae First Nation. We extend our deepest respect to Indigenous peoples - as a sign of our continued relationship we will support Laurentian University’s Truth and Reconciliation Task Force Recommendations. Miigwech. Listen to it in Anishinaabemowin.
Laurentian University. Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. All Rights Reserved. 2023.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will coordinate all digital fabrication processes that are part of the School’s design-build philosophy. The McEwen School of Architecture’s Fabrication Lab has several 3D printers, laser cutters, a 3-axis CNC machine, an industrial robot and 4m linear track, full wood shop along with a wet lab (for rammed earth and other wet materials), a photo lab and computer lab. Together, these facilities form the Fabrication Lab at the MSoA and are critical for the successful delivery of the curriculum across both the undergraduate and graduate programs.

The individual joining the MSoA in the role of Digital Fabrication Technologist should be trained to strive for craft and innovation in digital design. Their role will be intensive in its involvement with both students and faculty in the courses that are offered in the BAS and MArch curriculum. Joining a team of two other Workshop Technologists, the Digital Fabrication Technologist will complement the skills of the Workshop staff, with a focus on hybrid technologies, the use of wood and full-scale design-build projects.

• Being responsible for day-to-day operations, maintenance and health and safety activities of all digital fabrication equipment;
• Implementing and maintaining all health and safety protocols (i.e. Occupational Health and Safety Act of Ontario, WHMIS, etc.);
• Being responsible for the management and maintenance of all digital fabrication equipment (i.e. laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC machine, Robotic Cell, etc.);
• Preparation of Fab Lab manuals for all digital fabrication equipment;
• Overseeing the inventory of materials pertaining to all digital fabrication equipment, including regular inventory reports to monitor inventory levels;
• Identifying appropriate sources for materials and equipment from suppliers;
• Tracking overall fabrication budget and related expenditures, including ordering from suppliers;
• Developing a regular maintenance and service schedule for all digital fabrication equipment;
• Maintaining day to day operations of electronic lab equipment (soldering, prototyping, etc.) along with other emergent technologies;
• Remaining current on the latest emerging technologies;
• Develop and implement policies, standards and procedures for the architectural, scientific and technical research and activities performed in the department;
• Coordinating time schedules for all tasks required to prepare facilities for specific course needs;
• Supporting curriculum objectives & various teaching methods;
• Supporting faculty research initiatives;
• Providing training and instruction to students, faculty, and other technologists on the application of digital fabrication technologies;
• Training and supervision of work-study students, teaching assistants or research assistants;
• Coordination with faculty in the advance preparation of materials for student projects, including measuring and the cutting of material stock for course projects;
• Implementing a system for recording, tracking and organizing of materials, consumables, accessories and replacement components;
• Coordinating with the other MSoA Technologists in the selling of materials to students using University prescribed protocols;and
• Perform other duties as assigned.