Technical Specialist I (Fabrication Technician)

Title: Technical Specialist I (Fabrication Technician)

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: Admin Support Units

Department: Provost - Makerspace

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule:Part Time

Work Arrangement:Onsite

Job Summary

The Technical Specialist I (Fabrication Technician) provides training, technical guidance, and supervision on general equipment and machine tools to members of the UMass Makerspace. Helps manage and improve the makerspace's machine tool setup which includes manual and computer numerical control mills and lathes and other supporting equipment.

Essential Functions

Provides training, technical guidance, and supervision on general equipment and machine tools to members of the makerspace and ensures safety procedures are followed.

Troubleshoots equipment issues and performs repairs.

Works directly with the equipment manufacturer to diagnose and fix any issues beyond basic maintenance and repairs.

Responsible for general shop upkeep including cleaning and organizing equipment and machine tool areas.

Collaborates with makerspace staff, students, and volunteers to provide excellent service and support to makerspace members.

Oversees scheduling and supervision of student staff; manages communications, tracks attendance, and provides administrative support to ensure smooth operations.

Serves as a backup for Makerspace Supervisors as needed.

Other Functions

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent with at least two (2) years of relevant experience.

Experience in academic, makerspace, studio, workshop, or laboratory settings.

Experience using and maintaining shop equipment and providing safety supervision.

Experience in fabrication and design.

Experience with manual and computer numerical control machining.

Independent initiative. Must have the ability to stay on task and work productively with a minimum amount of supervision or guidance.

Must be willing and able to create a collaborative learning environment, engage students, and contribute to student success.

Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively and create and maintain harmonious relationships with a diverse population of staff, faculty, students, and off- campus constituents. Ability and willingness to work empathetically with a diverse student population and contribute to their success.

Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to write concisely, express thoughts clearly, and develop ideas in a logical sequence.

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with the ability to complete assignments in a timely manner, balancing the demands of concurrent and potentially competing projects.

Sound judgement and the ability to maintain confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with woodshop tools.

Experience with metal fabrication tools.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in indoor and/or outdoor environments, and requires frequent lifting, bending, tool use or equipment use. May involve work in confined spaces or at heights.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

18.75 hours per week; evenings and weekends.

Salary Information

Pay Grade:USA/MTA Grade 15

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Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the online application, submit a resume and cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide the names and contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.