Fabrication Studio Technician & Safety Trainer

SU01 Seattle University; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Seattle University is seeking a Studio Technician to oversee fabrication lab operations, safety, and student support. You will mentor student workers, schedule labs, and manage inventory while maintaining a safe, inclusive maker environment on campus.

The role involves hands-on training, equipment demonstrations, and collaboration with faculty to support coursework and exhibitions. Candidates should have relevant education and experience and be able to lift 50 lbs and work in a dynamic lab

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum two years of experience in fabrication studio environments.
• Technical proficiency in woodshop, metal shop, digital fabrication, ceramics/plaster.
• Demonstrated experience delivering safety instruction and mentoring users.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work in environments involving noise, dust, and vibration.
• Proficiency with digital tools: Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Cura, and Google Workspace.

Responsibilities

• Monitor lab usage and maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free environment.
• Deliver safety training and demonstrations on fabrication tools and materials.
• Maintain documentation including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), safety signage, purchase orders, tool reservations, and consumable supplies inventory.
• Track tool and process authorizations and ensure every individual’s compliance with safety protocols.
• Promote and model best practices in studio safety and foster a welcoming, inclusive maker environment.
• Cleaning and care of entire fabrication studio including specialty vendor coordination, dust collection system, and janitorial responsibilities.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to support class assignments and open studio time.
• Provide technical assistance and in-the-moment demonstrations to students using equipment such as table saws, band saws, laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC routers, welding systems, and casting materials.
• Serve as a resource for project planning, fabrication strategy, and tool/material selection for students, faculty, and staff.
• Monitor studio inventory; order tools, materials, and consumables using an assigned purchasing card.
• Track and document budget expenditures and material usage.
• Perform and document regular maintenance on machinery and tools.
• Coordinate service and repairs for specialized equipment.
• Maintain tool library and oversee appropriate storage and labeling of hazardous materials.
• Hire, train, and schedule student employees to support lab operations.
• Provide ongoing mentorship and ensure adherence to safety and operational policies.
• Support student employee development through technical skill-building and leadership opportunities.
• Coordinate lab schedules in collaboration with academic departments and campus services.
• Support exhibitions and installations including BFA shows and other events.
• Communicate operational needs and updates with the Manager and Operations teams.
• Engage in professional development opportunities, both as recommended by supervisors and through self-initiated learning to support growth and performance.

Job description

Seattle University is seeking a Studio Technician to oversee fabrication lab operations, safety, and student support. You will mentor student workers, schedule labs, and manage inventory while maintaining a safe, inclusive maker environment on campus.

The role involves hands-on training, equipment demonstrations, and collaboration with faculty to support coursework and exhibitions. Candidates should have relevant education and experience and be able to lift 50 lbs and work in a dynamic lab