Digital Fabrication and Safety Specialist

Along with other Fabrication Lab staff, serves in a busy, well-equipped self-service graduate school fabrication facility, assisting a large and diverse community in fabrication research and production, utilizing a wide range of materials, equipment, and software. This role is at the forefront of providing faculty and students a fabrication facility that is safe, well-resourced, and supportive of creative inquiry.

NOTE: This is an overtime-eligible position at 40 hours/week; Schedule to be determined within the operating hours of the Lab. Evenings and some weekend days may be required.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

·        Working closely with Fabrication Lab Manager and other Lab staff, is responsible for chemical and shop safety plans across all fabrication facilities and activities. Acts as Chemical Hygiene Officer and Designated Shop Supervisor, responsible for all University EHS requirements as related to Fabrication Lab spaces, equipment, and activities. Responsible for investigation of material properties, equipment and process hazards, interpreting Safety Data Sheets, identifying, implementing, and maintaining safety equipment, supplies, and other systems, performing as liaison with Harvard's EH&S office, creating safety related signage, documentation and training, and other related tasks.

·        Alongside other Fabrication Lab staff, is responsible for safe and efficient operations of fabrication tools and processes across all Fabrication Lab facilities, including related software and programming, as well as lab-related infrastructure including ventilation, water, emergency response, waste, and others. May work with consultants, technicians, and other staff in Computer Resources and Building Services departments to achieve above.

·        May have dedicated responsibility for one or more areas of the Lab’s equipment and processes, (e.g. 3D Printing, CNC routers, Laser Cutters, etc.) as determined by the Lab Manager.

·        Acquires, installs, configures, operates and maintains power tools and digital fabrication tools and equipment; prepares documentation of policies and procedures related to use and access of equipment, materials, and space; trains and assists lab assistants and users of lab equipment; works with technicians, consultants, and other department staff within Harvard University as required;

·        Provides training, assistance and technical and safety oversight, including occasional overtime as required, to individuals and groups, in support of class work, and individual and research projects;

·        Attends regular training, educational sessions, and professional conferences to stay abreast of technological developments and safety best practices;

·        Working with Fabrication Lab Manager, develops and operates within annual budget; obtaining quotes for anticipated project requirements involving equipment, space, or process changes;

·        May work directly on research projects, as assigned or identified with supervisor;

·        Performs related duties as required.

Supervises students and interns.

·        Bachelor’s degree or equivalent 5 years of experience.

·        Theoretical and practical knowledge of, and several years’ experience with, digital fabrication tools and processes.

·        Experience managing multiple technical assistants and providing workshop and safety training

·        Excellent organizational and communications skills.

·        Academic experience, advanced degree, or experience with architectural / environmental / industrial design and 'maker culture' a plus.

·        Training and/or experience in practicing and instructing others in industrial hygiene/safety.

The equipment used in this facility is highly specialized and many pieces require safety precautions including PPE because of hazardous materials, electrical and mechanical hazards, high temperature, and sharp objects. Some lifting and handling of heavy materials may be required.

Work is performed in both a fabrication facility and office setting.

 

Harvard will require COVID vaccination for all Harvard community members who will have any on-campus presence. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement and exceptions may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/.

In order to be considered for this role, a cover letter is required. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States now and in the future. We regret that we cannot sponsor a work visa

Please apply online at the Harvard Careers website. Upload a cover letter and resume to: hr.harvard.edu/search-jobs and keyword search to requisition # 50801BR.