Lead Fabricator | Austin, TX

Lead Fabricator

Position Summary: The Bullock Texas State History Museum (TSHM) Lead Fabricator works effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team to achieve the aesthetic and educational goals of Museum exhibits for diverse audiences. The Lead Fabricator reports to the Exhibits Production Supervisor and under the direction of the Head of Exhibit Production leads and trains a team of dedicated exhibit technicians which performs fine carpentry and complex construction, exhibit lighting, artifact mount making, painting, installation, de-installation and general maintenance of all Museum exhibits. The Lead Fabricator may specialize in a particular area, such as lighting, carpentry, woodworking, design, audio-visual, or other functional area(s) but must be competent in all areas of exhibit and mount fabrication. A problem-solver, the Lead Fabricator tracks expenditures and schedules for all installations and de-installations, keeping their supervisor apprised of any concerns. The Lead Fabricator works collaboratively with all TSHM divisions and interacts with the general public in a manner that promotes public confidence in the Museum and its staff. Must be able to work both independently and collaboratively under limited supervision, demonstrating sound judgment and a high level of initiative. Performs all other duties as assigned. *Work hours are based on the Agency's 360 day-per-year schedule and may include weekends, evenings and/or holidays, including occasional activities on short notice.  

Essential Job Duties: For purposes of this agency's job descriptions, "essential job duties" are defined as assigned tasks that are critical or fundamental to the position and not marginal. If an individual is qualified to perform the essential job duties, he or she must be able to perform the essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation. 

• Exhibit Team Lead Responsibilities 

• Works with Head of Exhibits and Exhibit Production Supervisor to establish comprehensive production goals for the department. Leads and directs routine workflow of the production staff to promptly and efficiently meet department goals and expectations. Monitors production pace and reports progress back to Exhibit Production Supervisor. 
• Evaluates feasibility of both broad-view and short term projects. Assists the Exhibit Production Supervisor with structural, material, technical and safety expertise regarding exhibit design components. Interprets sketches, plans and blueprints and performs research and analysis of exhibit materials and production costs. 

• Coordinates monthly exhibit team work schedule to ensure ample coverage. Coordinate the work of production staff with outside installation crews, communicating any concerns or needs to Head of Exhibits or Exhibit Production Supervisor. 

• Exhibit Maintenance 

• Performs walk-through and visual inspections of exhibits to identify possible repairs and general maintenance requirements. Coordinates and/or performs repairs as needed to maintain a high level of care and upkeep. 
• Solicit assistance from Museum Facilities and Housekeeping personnel to ensure proper coordination and servicing of exhibits as required. 
• Demonstrates responsiveness and resourcefulness in handling requests for assistance from other TSHM staff. 

• Maintains Exhibit department safety program and serves as department ADSO (Additional Duty Safety Officer). Works closely with Agency risk manager to maintain industry safety standards and compliance. Regularly monitors exhibit areas to ensure visitor and building occupant safety. Leads by example and demonstrates proper and safe use of tools, materials, and techniques. Continuously assesses safety conditions to enhance and protect individual and workplace safety and in the best interests of visitors, staff and self. 
• Works with vendors or provide technical direction to vendors regarding Museum and Exhibits requirements, and with museum professionals and other outside organizations to answer technical inquiries regarding materials, equipment, techniques, practices and exhibit displays. Responds to routine requests from the general public while working in public areas of the Museum. 

• Exhibit Fabrication, Artifact Handling, Mount making, Installation 

• Leads and performs fabrication and installation of museum-quality exhibit casework and related components. Related components may include legend materials, electrical equipment, wiring, audio visual and media control equipment. 
• Leads, directs and oversees quality fabrication of Museum artifact mounts utilizing materials appropriate to the task, including brass, steel, acrylic, mats and frames. Works with Registrars to ensure that mounts provide adequate support for each object while being as visually unobtrusive as possible. 

• Exhibit Installation and De-installation 

• Works with Head of Exhibits to develop the lighting design and implementation of exhibit lighting. Carefully ensures safe and proper light levels as directed by registrars and lenders. Oversees light fixture, lamp, and accessory inventory and purchasing. Maintains industry-wide standards while actively researching new lighting technology and advancements. 

• Exhibit Shop Responsibilities 

• Orders, organizes, maintains and secures all equipment, tools, paint, and materials required to perform the assigned duties and coordinates with museum designate to identify, catalog and prepare Exhibit department surplus for disposal. 

• Uses a personal computer in a Windows-based environment to perform various administrative tasks including e-mail, materials and supplies research and/or inventory control. Keeps well-organized computer and hardcopy records of material expended on specific assignments per agency requirements and departmental needs. 

• Demonstrates excellent eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity; and is able to repetitively reach, climb, safely lift up to 50 pounds, transport materials, organize and clean work areas, kneel, stretch, stoop, bend and perform other duties requiring considerable manual and physical exertion. 
• Complies with all applicable safety rules, regulations, and standards. Plans and preforms work with safety and security front of mind. Continuously assesses safety conditions to ensure individual and workplace safety and the safety of building occupants, visitors and staff. May assist in building evacuation. 
• Required to legally drive a state vehicle relative to the assigned duties; must have current and valid driver's license. 
• Must be available to work extended hours, including evenings, nights and/or weekends and within tight deadlines as necessary. 
• Performs all duties as assigned in a manner that promotes public confidence in the State Preservation Board and its employees. 

• Regular attendance is an essential job duty for all SPB positions. 
• Performs all other duties as assigned. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: The successful candidate will have three (3) years experience in museum exhibits as either a fabricator, carpenter, preparator, or exhibit technician. Applicant's background must reflect team leadership, as well as fine woodworking with all carpentry power and hand tools. The position requires the ability to work conceptually, physically and skillfully within designated timelines to create aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound displays. Safely lifts and/or transports up to 50 pounds; demonstrates broad knowledge of museum fabrication techniques, materials, supplies and equipment. Positions held must demonstrate prior experience with project management, planning, scheduling, monitoring milestones and cost analysis. Applicant's background must include use of a personal computer in a Windows-based environment, as well as carpentry shop safety standards experience. This position is not sedentary in nature and requires regular evening, night and/or weekend work, including on short notice. A valid driver's license with a clear driving record is required. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: The ideal candidate will be a college graduate with a degree in studio art, architecture, design, or a related field. Additional related experience may be considered as substitutable for the degree requirement. Additional areas of specialization as identified under the minimum qualifications and a minimum of 5 years of related experience are preferred. Experience with faux painting and drawing or sketching of design concepts, artifact mount construction, carpentry certification, audio-visual equipment maintenance will be favorably considered by the hiring division. 

To Apply: 

Submit a fully completed State of Texas application to the SPB by: 

Email: TSPB.employment@tspb.texas.gov 

Fax: (512) 463-3372 

Mail or in person: 201 E. 14th Street, Suite 950, Austin, TX, 78701 

For an application see:  http://www.tspb.texas.gov/spb/employ/employ.html, the Agency Intranet or call: (512) 463-5495. **All resumes must be accompanied by a fully completed state application.** All applications must be received by the SPB by the closing date for consideration. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Compensation package includes benefit options of: medical, dental, vision and other insurances; a defined benefit pension and 401K retirement plans. Free: Parking, Museum Membership. 

State Job Title:  Lead Fabricator Classification:  1570 Salary Group:  B-17 

Veterans: Military Occupational Specialty Codes (MOS): Navy/Coast Guard: OS Operations Specialist; Marines: 8U000 Unit Deployment Manager Veterans with other related MOS or additional duties pertaining to the minimum experience requirements may meet the minimum qualifications for this position and are highly encouraged to apply. Use your military skills to qualify for this position or other jobs. Go to www.texasskillstowork.com to translate your military work experience and training into civilian job terms, qualifications and skill sets or for additional Military Crosswalk information go to http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx. 

EEO Statement: The State Preservation Board is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified applicants without regard to national origin, race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADAA), if you require reasonable accommodation in the interview and selection process, please call the agency's ADA Coordinator at (512) 463- 3633. 

Selection Information: At the time of hire, selected applicants must show proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. All males who are age 18 through 25 are required to register with the Selective Service and may be asked to present proof of registration or exemption from registration upon hire. 

The State Preservation Board uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.