FabLab Technician

ABOUT ALU

At the African Leadership University (ALU), we're more than just an institution—we're a catalyst for transformation. Our mission is to develop a new generation of ethical and entrepreneurial leaders who will shape Africa's future. Through our innovative curriculum, focus on experiential learning, and vibrant pan-African community, we empower students to become changemakers, problem-solvers, and innovators. At ALU, we're not just teaching; we're nurturing the leaders who will drive Africa's progress and prosperity in the 21st century

We are dedicated to fostering an open yet secure environment, balancing the safety of students, staff, and visitors with respect for individual rights, and safeguarding responsibilities.

HOW WE WORK

The ALU Team works in starkly different ways to traditional academic bureaucracies. We approach education from first principles, empower individuals to design, test, and implement creative new ideas, and work closely together to craft transformative learning experiences. We are deeply passionate about our students and excited by the challenge of building something entirely new.

The African Leadership University is committed to ensuring the safety and Well-being of all students under our care. As part of this commitment , we have a comprehensive safeguarding policy in place , which outlines our Zero-tolerance approach to any violation of safeguarding.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The FabLab Technician supports the effective operation, utilization, and instructional delivery of the FabLab, enabling students to design, prototype, and test physical and digital products in a safe, well-managed, and innovative environment. This role focuses on technical execution, lab operations, and hands-on student support, ensuring the FabLab serves as a reliable prototyping and experimentation backbone for C4E programs, including venture incubation, maker programs, and creative technology initiatives.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

FabLab Operations & Technical Management (Core Function)

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the FabLab, including equipment setup, routine maintenance, calibration, and safe usage.
• Manage and maintain FabLab tools and systems such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, electronics kits, soldering stations, and other prototyping equipment.
• Ensure strict compliance with safety protocols, access rules, and equipment handling standards.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and coordinate repairs or replacements when required.

Program Delivery & Instruction

• Support delivery of FabLab-enabled programs including Maker Sprints, Smart Hardware Labs, Creative Build Labs, and venture prototyping sessions.
• Provide hands-on technical guidance to students using the lab, including tool orientation, material selection, and prototyping methods.
• Support students in translating ideas, sketches, and designs into functional prototypes.
• Assist facilitators and instructors during lab-based workshops and build sessions.

Lab Administration & Coordination

• Track equipment usage, consumables, inventory levels, and maintenance schedules.
• Coordinate FabLab access schedules for programs, student teams, and independent users.
• Work closely with the SVP and Operations teams to align FabLab activities with venture program needs and timelines.
• Maintain basic lab documentation, usage logs, and safety records.
• Perform any other duties reasonably assigned by the C4E Manager in support of FabLab operations and student innovation activities.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

Required Qualifications:

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Design, Computer Science, Technology, or a related technical field.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience working with fabrication or prototyping tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics, or maker equipment.
• Experience supporting students, innovators, or early-stage product builders in a lab, workshop, or technical learning environment (preferred).
• Basic understanding of product development, hardware prototyping, or maker-based innovation workflows.

Key Skills & Competencies:

Technical & Maker Competencies

• Hands-on proficiency with fabrication and prototyping tools.
• Ability to troubleshoot hardware, electronics, and basic mechanical issues.
• Understanding of rapid prototyping, iteration, and MVP development for physical products.

Instruction & Student Support

• Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical users.
• Patience and confidence in guiding students through trial-and-error learning.
• Ability to enforce safety rules while maintaining an encouraging learning environment.

Operational & Organizational Skills

• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail in lab management.
• Ability to manage multiple users, schedules, and equipment demands simultaneously.
• Comfort working under pressure during peak lab usage periods.

Professional Attributes

• High integrity and strong sense of responsibility for shared equipment and spaces.
• Proactive, solutions-oriented, and adaptable.
• Strong teamwork skills and willingness to collaborate across programs and departments.

ROLE OUTCOMES / SUCCESS INDICATORS.

• High and consistent FabLab utilization by students and venture teams.
• Minimal equipment downtime and strong adherence to safety protocols.
• Positive student feedback on FabLab support and accessibility.
• Successful delivery of FabLab-enabled programs and build sessions.
• Improved quality and functionality of student prototypes emerging from the lab.
• Well-maintained inventory, documentation, and lab records.