Technical Lab Manager

at  Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

YOUR FUNCTION

The Vrije Universiteit (VU) collaborates with the University of Twente (UT) on education and research. At the VU in Amsterdam, students can follow two technical bachelor’s programs: Mechanical Engineering and Creative Technology. For large practicals, they travel to Twente. For smaller practicals, workshops, and individual work, students are in the VU Makerspace.
The Makerspace is housed in the DemonstratorLab (DLAB). The DLAB is the startup incubator of the VU, where projects can develop and test prototypes and products. Thus, the Makerspace is part of a VU-wide and inspiring community. Students of Mechanical Engineering and Creative Technology follow parts of their educational programming in the Makerspace and can also work on personal projects in the lab. As a technician, you support these activities and have a coordinating role from and towards the programs, students, and colleagues at the DLAB. The director of the DLAB will be your direct supervisor.
In about 2 years, DLAB and the Makerspace will move to a brand-new building on campus with new lab facilities. As a technician, you will play a role in the further integration of the Makerspace within DLAB and the developments regarding the new lab.

WHAT ARE YOUR TECHNICAL SKILLS?

• You can read and assess technical drawings;
• You have thorough knowledge of designing and maintaining electronic circuits (including the Arduino platform, sensors, actuators);
• You have solid knowledge of designing and manufacturing 3D-printable or laser-cut objects (including mechanical parts) and experience with software such as Autodesk Fusion and/or Solidworks.
  As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognising that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset.
  We realise that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore we are happy to invite anyone who recognises themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements.

• You are responsible for the daily management of the lab space and ensure users can work safely;
• You keep the lab tidy and maintain the necessary equipment and instruments;
• You conduct technical practicals together with lecturers from the programs;
• You design and conduct workshops to help students develop their technical skills, such as “Design & Manufacturing for (rapid) prototyping” and “Lab etiquette and safe use of facilities”;
• You conduct co-creation sessions with lecturers and students, including material selection guidance;
• You plan and organize all activities. You communicate with lecturers, students, the educational organization, and colleagues from the DLAB;
• You perform an annual inventory and provide advice regarding the ICT infrastructure, production, and educational resources;
• Together with colleagues from the DLAB, you contribute to the mentioned community building;
• You contribute ideas about the design and facilities of the Makerspace and the DLAB in the new building;
• You think about possibilities to further develop the Makerspace.