Digital Fabrication Technician II

University of Southern California; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southern California (USC) School of Architecture seeks an experienced Digital Fabrication Technician II to oversee daily CNC lab operations. You will review student projects, prepare CNC files, and program and run a 3-axis CNC router and multi-axis milling machines, while maintaining equipment and supporting related labs as needed.

Responsibilities include evaluating Rhino models for manufacturability, independently programming with Mastercam and Rhino, and coordinating

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.
• Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience independently programming, setting up and operating CNC milling/routing equipment.
• Demonstrated experience with multi-axis CNC Routers (Haas or comparable preferred).
• Proficient with Rhino and Mastercam, or comparable CAD/CAM software.
• Experience translating digital design models into successful CNC fabrication workflows.
• Ability to independently troubleshoot CNC machining, tooling, fixturing and programming issues.

Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operation of the CNC fabrication lab.
• Serve as the primary operator for all CNC equipment.
• Consult with students to review project goals, materials, fabrication methods and production schedules.
• Evaluate Rhino models and digital files for CNC manufacturability and recommend modifications when needed.
• Independently program, set up and operate the CNC equipment using Mastercam and Rhino.
• Determine appropriate tooling, fixturing methods, and order of operations for student projects.
• Coordinate fabrication schedules and prioritize projects to meet academic deadlines while managing multiple concurrent fabrication requests.
• Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and routine servicing of CNC equipment.
• Support lab improvement projects through fabrication, assembly and installation.
• Maintain tool library, consumable inventory, and shop documentation.
• Assist Laser Cutting and 3D Printing operations as needed.

Skills

CNC operation

Student consultation

Troubleshooting

Coordination & communication

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Rhino

Mastercam

Haas CNC routers

CNC milling

Job description

The University of Southern California (USC)'s School of Architecture is seeking an experienced Digital Fabrication Technician II to independently oversee the day-to-day operation of the CNC fabrication lab. The technician receives project submissions, consults with students on materials and fabrication methods, prepares CNC files, and performs setup, programming, and operation of the lab’s 3-axis CNC router and multi-axis CNC milling machines. CNC equipment is operated exclusively by lab staff; students prepare project files and materials for fabrication but do not operate CNC machinery. This position is also responsible for maintaining the CNC equipment and lab, supporting fabrication needs for academic coursework and special projects, and provide support to the School’s Laser Cutting and 3D Printing Labs as needed.

University of Southern California The University of Southern California is one of the world’s leading private research universities. An anchor institution in Los Angeles, USC has a large number of international students and offers extensive opportunities for internships and study abroad. With a strong tradition of integrating liberal and professional education, USC fosters a vibrant culture of public service and encourages students to cross academic as well as geographic boundaries in their pursuit of knowledge. For more information, visit www.usc.edu.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Manage the daily operation of the CNC fabrication lab
• Serve as the primary operator for all CNC equipment
• Consult with students to review project goals, materials, fabrication methods and production schedules
• Evaluate Rhino models and digital files for CNC manufacturability and recommend modifications when needed
• Independently program, set up and operate the CNC equipment using Mastercam and Rhino
• Determine appropriate tooling, fixturing methods, and order of operations for student projects
• Coordinate fabrication schedules and prioritize projects to meet academic deadlines while managing multiple concurrent fabrication requests
• Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and routine servicing of CNC equipment
• Support lab improvement projects through fabrication, assembly and installation
• Maintain tool library, consumable inventory, and shop documentation
• Assist Laser Cutting and 3D Printing operations as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience
• Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience independently programming, setting up and operating CNC milling/routing equipment
• Demonstrated experience with multi-axis CNC Routers (Haas or comparable preferred)
• Proficient with Rhino and Mastercam, or comparable CAD/CAM software
• Experience translating digital design models into successful CNC fabrication workflows
• Ability to independently troubleshoot CNC machining, tooling, fixturing and programming issues
• Knowledge of materials, cutting tools and safe shop practices
• Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills

Other Requirements: Must possess the ability to safely perform the physical work required of all duties, including manual dexterity, agility, strength and coordination This position requires standing for extended periods, working with industrial equipment, and performing routine physical tasks associated with CNC operations Frequently: stand, walk, bend, reach above shoulder level, use keyboard/mouse, perform tasks requiring hand dexterity, hand twisting, and simple grasping; lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 lbs. unassisted; perform light to moderate pushing/pulling; move equipment and materials; and work in outdoor environments Occasionally: sit, crouch/squat, climb, power grasping, and heavy pushing/pulling Must be able to work occasional weekdays/weeknights, holidays as needed beyond regularly scheduled hours Deliver excellent student service and maintain clarity and composure when faced with difficult situations

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Experience working in a university fabrication lab, architecture school, design studio, or similar educational shop environment
• Three (3) or more years of professional CNC fabrication experience preferred, including independent project support and advanced troubleshooting
• Experience working directly with students, faculty and designers on fabrication projects
• Familiarity with laser cutting, additive manufacturing, and other digital fabrication technologies
• Experience supporting architectural fabrication, model making, furniture fabrication, exhibitions, or design-build projects
• Experience in a makerspace or physical computing environment using specialized fabrication technologies and equipment
• Experience with robotic fabrication systems, including KUKA robots or comparable industrial robotic platforms

Minimum Education: High School or equivalent Specialized/technical training Minimum Experience: 2 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Knowledge of mechanics, shop mathematics, properties of metals & plastics, & layout & machining procedures. Must communicate with faculty, researchers, engineers & students on mechanical matters.

The hourly range for this position is $25.00-$33.25.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy.

USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law.

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety.

Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities.

Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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USC is a leading private research university located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles – a global center for arts, technology and international business. As the largest private employer in the city – responsible for more than $5 billion annually in economic activity in the region – we offer the opportunity to work in a dynamic and diverse environment, in careers that span a broad spectrum of talents and skills. As a USC employee, you will enjoy excellent benefits and perks, and you will be a member of the Trojan Family - the faculty, staff, students and alumni who make USC a great place to work.