Specialist I, Fabrication & Design, PTII

At Discovery Place, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we fuel your passion for science and the natural world by delivering awe-inspiring exhibits and educational programs.
Our immersive experiences captivate, challenge, and empower audiences of all ages, sparking a spirit of discovery and lifelong learning. We hope to forge a future where science catalyzes, creating boundless opportunities, fostering hope, solving complex problems and driving positive change across the globe.

We’re looking for driven, talented individuals who share our passion for making an impact and having fun while doing it.

General Summary:

Support the daily operations of the department by performing activities of (re)engineering, design, fabrication, and specialty installations ensuring museum building, grounds, and exhibit experiences to ensure safe, welcoming, and functional guest experience across all Discovery Place, Inc. locations. Seeking individuals with expertise in electronics, carpentry, metal working, plastics, machining, CNC, carpentry, mechanical component design, scenic and prop development. Must be comfortable working with a variety materials and processes on non-standard exhibit and building components. Further responsibilities are to support new initiatives such as temporary exhibitions and capital projects.

• Fabricate and install exhibits and exhibit elements and communicates performance issues to appropriate team members.
• Develops solutions to performance issues related to the Built Environment (Exhibits & Facilities) components, materials, approach. Troubleshoots repairs and provides practical insight to Management regarding facilities and exhibit performance and methods for improvement.
• Researches and sources materials for projects
• Maintain shop areas in clean/working condition.
• Fabricate exhibits according to the highest level of safety and performance needs.
• Create plans, bill of materials, cut lists, diagrams, etc. and documents any new specifications. Works with Director to ensure documentation for support and operations of the Built Environment is up to date. This may include drawings, components, preventative maintenance and operational documentation.
• Regularly communicate with Manager on status of equipment, projects, and materials.
• Provide project timelines and estimated cost. Maintain time and production records.
• Interpret drawings and instructions and use them to troubleshoot facilities and exhibits-related issues.
• Create and maintain information on vendors and inventory.
• Support Operational arm of the division, to support temporary exhibitions or daily operations as needed.
• Immediately reports any major Building system issues. Supports with triage efforts, as necessary.
• Purchase and maintain stock materials, spare parts, and consumable items.
• Maintain shop areas in a clean and working condition.
• Communicate with other DPI team members and departments to resolve issues.
• Interpret drawings and instructions and use them to troubleshoot facilities and exhibits-related issues.
• Maintain information on vendors and inventory.
• Participate in all applicable exhibit installs and strikes.
• Ensure all products meet DPIs highest level of quality.
• Uphold the values of Discovery Place:
  • Science leads us.
  • Integrity guides us
  • Equity drives us
  • Innovation energizes us
• Work to create positive change in our communities.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two four years of hands-on fabrication experience.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Ability to calculate figures and apply basic mathematic concepts.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
• Microsoft Outlook, word processing, and spreadsheet software
• Proficient in one (or more) of the following: in electronics, carpentry, metal working, plastics, machining, carpentry, mechanical component design, scenic and prop development.
• Additional basic skills and experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Diagnosing and troubleshooting/repairing electronic components.
  • Computer diagnostic, troubleshooting and repair skills.
  • Woodworking fabrication skills.
  • Building systems knowledge and skills (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, etc.).

Employees of Discovery Place should uphold the mission, vision, and values of the organization. We strive to provide exceptional service through four core values: uncommon courtesy, the pursuit of personal excellence, teamwork, and inclusion. We value the diversity of opinions and intellectual thought and encourage an environment where employees can share ideas openly.

The foregoing description is not intended and should not be construed to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities of this job. Other duties may be assigned.

The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Visual accuracy Expert manual dexterity

Technical Skills Proficient with all types of power tools. Familiarity with heavy equipment [forklift and scissor lift]. Willingness to experiment with new materials and production methods.

Problem Solving Takes initiative in identifying and resolving problems in a timely manner. Gathers and analyzes information skillfully. Develops and communicates alternative solutions. Works well in group problem solving situations.

Adaptability - Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events. Reacts well under pressure.

Productivity - Meets productivity standards. Responds well to management direction and able to create a professional dialogue if views differ. Takes ownership of projects and answers for its success or failure. Commits to expanded hours when necessary to reach goals. Completes tasks on time or notifies Manager with project concerns.

Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities. Uses time efficiently. Plans for additional resources. Sets goals and objectives. Works within approved budget. Develops and implements cost saving measures. Conserves organizational resources.

Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views. Gives and welcomes feedback. Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests. Recognizes accomplishments of other team members. Solicits manager and exhibits team feedback to improve service. Responds promptly to requests for service and assistance. Meets commitments.

Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness. Looks for ways to improve and promote quality. Applies feedback to improve performance. Monitors own work to ensure quality.

Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures. Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines. Reports potentially unsafe conditions. Uses equipment and materials properly.

Professional Development - Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities. Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills. Shares expertise with others.

Strong Oral and Written communication.

Primarily a fabrication shop environment with exposure to moving mechanical parts and equipment. Frequently required to sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb ladders, lift, and operate motorized equipment. Indoor and outdoor exposure. Must have a valid NC or SC drivers license. Travel to other museum locations.

Employees of Discovery Place should uphold the mission, vision and values of the organization. We strive to provide exceptional service through four core values: uncommon courtesy, the pursuit of personal excellence, teamwork and inclusion. We value the diversity of opinions and intellectual thought and encourage an environment where employees can share ideas openly.

The foregoing description is not intended and should not be construed to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities of this job. Other duties may be assigned. This job description may be changed to include new responsibilities and tasks or change existing ones as management deems necessary.