Digital Fabrication Technician II

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

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

Application Procedure

As part of the application, candidates must upload one document file (Word or PDF) that contains the following: 1) a cover letter, 2) Resume (including telephone and e-mail address).

In addition, the successful candidate must also demonstrate, through ideas, words and actions, a strong commitment to USC’s Unifying Values.

The hourly range for this position is $25.00-$33.25. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer alignment, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

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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.

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. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at View phone number on aiapply.co, or by email at View email address on aiapply.co. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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