The Fabrication Manager oversees the labs and fabrication facilities within the PACCAR Engineering Building. This role is responsible for maintaining and managing metal fabrication and 3D printing facilities, supervising student workers, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and managing equipment and supplies. The Fabrication Manager collaborates with faculty and Facilities Services to support instructional and research labs, including an ISO 7 cleanroom, and serves as a liaison with the university’s Hazardous Waste & Academic Safety Manager. This position plays a crucial role in enhancing student learning through hands-on fabrication training and mentorship while upholding Whitworth University's commitment to academic excellence and safety.
Student Learning & Fabrication Instruction | 30%
* Provide hands-on training and mentorship in fabrication techniques for engineering students.
* Develop and deliver instructional sessions on safe and effective equipment operation.
* Supervise, hire, and train student workers to assist in the operation of fabrication facilities.
* Support student Senior Design projects and extracurricular engineering activities.
Lab & Facility Management |20%
* Ensure the safe operation and maintenance of fabrication labs, including metalworking and 3D printing facilities.
* Establish and enforce safety protocols, access control, and standard operating procedures.
* Maintain an orderly workspace and ensure equipment is operational by coordinating necessary repairs.
* Manage inventory and procure supplies for fabrication facilities.
* Oversee equipment check-out and return procedures.
Safety & Compliance| 20%
* Develop and oversee safety policies in collaboration with the Hazardous Waste & Academic Safety Manager.
* Ensure compliance with Washington State L&I standards and rules.
* Conduct safety training for students and staff on proper handling of hazardous materials.
* Assist in emergency response procedures as needed.
Collaboration & Facility Support | 20%
* Work closely with faculty to integrate fabrication techniques into the engineering curriculum.
* Assist in the operation and maintenance of instructional labs, research labs, and specialized equipment, including:
o Electronics and optics instructional labs
o Photonics and MEMS research labs
o Scanning Electron Microscope
o ISO 7 cleanroom
* Coordinate with Facilities Services to ensure the proper functioning of lab-related infrastructure.
Continuous Learning & Additional Responsibilities | 10%
* Stay updated on advancements in fabrication techniques, materials, and technology.
* Adapt to evolving engineering education needs and support faculty in integrating new fabrication methodologies.
* Contribute to a culture of innovation and hands-on learning within the department.
* Other duties as assigned.
* Associate’s degree in engineering, manufacturing technology, or a related field.
* Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in advanced fabrication techniques, including CNC mill and lathe operation.
* Demonstrated ability to train others in safe and effective fabrication techniques.
* Experience supervising staff or student workers in a technical setting.
* Proficiency with CAD software and Microsoft Office.
* Ability to safely handle hazardous materials common to engineering fabrication environments.
* Strong knowledge of general engineering principles and terminology.
* A personal commitment to the Christian faith and to the integration of faith and learning.
* A commitment to the educational mission of Whitworth University as a comprehensive Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church.
Core Competencies
* Technical Expertise – Proficiency in fabrication techniques, including CNC machining, welding, and 3D printing.
* Educational Support & Mentorship – Ability to teach, mentor, and engage students in hands-on learning experiences.
* Safety & Risk Management – Strong knowledge of OSHA and Washington State L&I safety regulations for engineering labs.
* Facility & Equipment Maintenance – Expertise in troubleshooting, maintaining, and upgrading fabrication lab equipment.
* Collaboration & Interdisciplinary Support – Ability to work with faculty, researchers, and students across multiple disciplines.
* Inventory & Resource Management – Efficient handling of procurement, budgeting, and tracking of supplies and materials.
* Innovation & Adaptability – Willingness to learn new technologies, implement improvements, and support evolving academic needs.
Preferred Qualifications
* Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing technology, or a related field.
* 5+ years of experience in fabrication techniques, including CNC mill and lathe operation.
* Experience diagnosing, repairing, and designing scientific equipment.
* Previous experience working in a cleanroom environment.
Schedule
Full-time (.92 FTE) | 12 months | 40 hours per week August - May | 20 hours per week June and July
Whitworth office hours are 8 AM to 4:30 PM Monday – Friday
Whitworth University is a Christian liberal arts university. Our shared mission is to provide our diverse students with an education of mind and heart, equipping them to honor God, follow Christ, and serve humanity. We seek candidates who are willing to engage with the university’s mission and integrate their Christian faith into their work.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, faith statement, and contact information for at least three professional references. A background check and sexual misconduct check will be required of the successful candidate.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain valid work authorization throughout the duration of employment, including those on OPT. Whitworth University does not offer visa sponsorship for this position.
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