Technical Specialist

Role Description

Department

The York School of Architecture (YSA) is one of the University of York’s exciting transformational initiatives. The school’s expertise is interdisciplinary, building on York research strengths in culture, community, computation, environment and geography, heritage and social policy to create a school that supports our commitment to public good. Our first students will start in September 2025 on the BA (honours) Architecture course, postgraduate courses will start from 2028.

We recognise the many benefits of a diverse workforce and are committed to ensuring an inclusive place to work. We particularly encourage applications from women and members of minority groups, who are underrepresented across the School as a whole.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements (e.g. part-time working, job share etc.), with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion web page.

This post is available from 1 April 2025

Role

The Technical Specialist will be responsible for the day-to-day management and safe operation of the architectural model-making workshop at the York School of Architecture. The workshop focuses on traditional timber craftsmanship and incorporates advanced digital fabrication technologies.

The role involves providing technical expertise and guidance to students and staff, ensuring the workshop is a creative and safe environment for producing architectural models and prototypes. The technician will train and support students in model-making techniques, from handcrafting with wood to advanced digital fabrication methods. They will also be responsible for maintaining workshop equipment, implementing health and safety protocols, and advising on innovative materials and processes for model making.

This role plays a key part in supporting the creative education of architecture students by fostering hands-on learning and experimentation with both traditional and modern fabrication techniques.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• An undergraduate degree in architecture, product design, or engineering, or equivalent relevant experience.
• A qualification or proven training in model making or digital fabrication.
• NEBOSH/IOSH qualification is desirable.
• Knowledge of managing architectural model making workshops is desirable
• Expertise in the use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of woodworking tools and machinery.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines.
• Experience in developing innovative solutions for fabrication challenges in design and architecture is desirable
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines is desirable.
• Proven experience in working with a range of traditional and digital fabrication tools
• Substantial experience in managing or working in a creative workshop environment, particularly in architectural model making.
• Experience in maintaining and repairing workshop equipment and ability to train and mentor others in workshop techniques.
• Basic model making experience, in Architecture or in other areas of design.
• Enthusiasm for supporting student learning and creativity in an architectural context.

Interview date: TBC

For informal enquiries: please contact Erik Olafsen (Technical Facilities Manager) via email: erik@olfasen@york.ac.uk

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

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