Digital Fabrication Lead

Powerhouse Arts is a not-for-profit organization committed to creative expression. Housed in a purpose-built-facility in Brooklyn, the organization hosts an extended network of art and fabrication professionals and educators who work together to co-create and share artistic practices vital to the well-being of artists and the communities to which they serve. Our new facilities house fabrication services, production services, production spaces, and member workshops for artisans.

Powerhouse Arts is seeking a highly skilled Digital Fabrication Lead to oversee digital fabrication operations for the Public Art department. The Digital Fabrication Lead will work collaboratively with the Public Art team to fabricate artwork of all types and sizes at public squares, galleries, museums, parks, and building commons. Reporting to the Director of Public Art the Digital Fabrication Lead will serve as a conduit between design and fabrication from ideation through production. This role requires excellent design skills to be used in the production of design files/models, technical drawings, and files for the CNC machine operations of all Public Art projects. 

The ideal candidate is passionate about design, proactive, organized, detail-oriented, and eager to take on challenges independently while also working in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities: 

• Oversee and execute fabrication and installation tasks, with a priority focus on digital fabrication, including CNC milling machine, LASER & plasma cutters, and 3D printers
• Draft and deliver 3D designs, mechanical renderings, shop drawings, and client-facing models within contracted timelines
• Collaborate with production management colleagues in developing build approaches and production efficiency strategies
• Assist in the research and procurement of specialty materials, finishes, and hardware as defined by the scope of client projects
• Work with the Public Art Production Manager to establish estimated costs per project 
• Engage with clients and vendors as needed 
• Support and develop overall departmental goals and objectives as set in collaboration with the Director of Public Art and senior leadership 
• Collaborate with the Public Art department to refine departmental protocols and standards
• Oversee CNC machinery upkeep, maintenance, and troubleshooting
• Train team members on how to use digital fabrication tools and equipment effectively
• Communicate regularly with team and clients to provide updates on the progress of projects
• Management reserves the right to revise these responsibilities or to require other/different tasks be performed as institutional circumstances change

Qualifications:

If 80% of what you read fits you, or if you are not professionalized in formal ways, but have the skills needed for the job, please apply.

• A keen interest and deep commitment to supporting the creative expressions of artists
• 5+ years of experience in Digital Fabrication, or a related field, creating 3D designs, mechanical renderings, and shop drawings 
• Expert with at least one of the leading 3D CAD applications, and working knowledge of others, such as: Rhinoceros 3D, Fusion 360, Solidworks, AutoCAD, etc. 
• Ability to interpret the design needs of a broad range of creative clientele and understand priorities, both internal and external
• Working experience with various & novel materials and fabrication techniques (wood, metal/welding, hardware, plastics, laminates, fabrics/textiles)
• Ability to effectively manage time and work independently on multiple projects concurrently
• Experience managing projects from start to finish
• Innovative and creative problem-solving skills
• Must be organized, detail-oriented, and team-driven
• Must be flexible and adaptable to constant change and able to work under tight deadlines
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Powerhouse Arts is a safe, inclusive workplace for people of all backgrounds and walks of life. We strongly encourage you to apply if you are from a marginalized or underrepresented group. The requirements listed are guidelines, you don't have to satisfy every requirement or meet every qualification listed. If 80% of what you read fits you, or if you have transferable skills, please apply. 

Compensation & Benefits: Salary range is $80,000- $95,000 and commensurate with experience. Benefits include health insurance, an employer-sponsored retirement plan, generous paid vacation, and a Citibike membership.

Powerhouse Arts is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants receive consideration without regard to race, age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. Powerhouse is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace and recognize the positive value of diversity.

For more information, visit www.powerhousearts.org