Specialist Technician 3D Workshops; Product/Interior Design Technician / IM London

Role Description

The Specialist Technician for Product and Interior Design plays a key role in supporting both academic delivery and the continual development of the School’s facilities.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to work within higher education and apply technical expertise in support of an academic environment. As part of the technical team, they will contribute to enhancing and advancing students’ skills in prototyping, modelling, making, and safe studio practices.

They provide professional expertise, guidance, and advice, ensuring the effective delivery of academic activities across courses. A core aspect of the role is to support student learning through both informal and formal training and instruction, enabling students to develop proficiency in specialist techniques, production methods, materials, and technologies.

In addition, the Specialist Technician contributes to the development, maintenance, and ongoing operational improvement of the School’s facilities, ensuring they remain safe, effective, and aligned with teaching and learning needs.

Flexibility will be required at times to support student deadlines, and Specialist Technician will be expected to work collaboratively with colleagues across the team to provide a high-quality technical and learning experience.

By combining technical expertise with educational support, the role helps students to realise their creative and practical intentions while also contributing to the continuous enhancement of the School’s learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for the day-to-day management and smooth operation of designated areas and related facilities within the School. This includes coordinating the use and booking of specialist resources (such as 3D printers and studios, both during and outside timetabled teaching sessions) and working closely with the Health & Safety Officer to ensure the safe and compliant use of all equipment and spaces.
• Contribute and collaborate with the Facilities Team as required to ensure the key priorities and levels of service are met successfully, such as compliance with Health and Safety, maintenance and repairs of equipment and technical learning spaces.
• Contribute to the planning, development, and delivery of learning activities that support student learning and research, working collaboratively with Programme Leaders and academic staff through both informal discussions and formal programme meetings.
• Provide feedback to Programme Leaders, Facilities Manager, and the Director of Education on service levels and student needs, helping to inform adaptations and contributing to the ongoing review and improvement of service delivery standards.
• Supervise learning activities by providing expert guidance and advice to students, supporting them in identifying and applying appropriate techniques, processes, materials, resources, and equipment to achieve the intended learning outcomes.
• Deliver formal and informal demonstration sessions for students, showcasing specific processes, techniques, or skills. Guide learners through step-by-step instruction, provide hands-on coaching, and support the development of proficiency in targeted areas.
• Support the planning and delivery of exhibitions and events within the School, contributing to the design, production, and development of teaching and learning materials tailored to your specialist area and service delivery.
• Carry out maintenance and repair tasks, manage the supply of consumables, and coordinate with suppliers and contractors to ensure facilities operate efficiently and comply with professional standards and guidelines.
• Manage and maintain inventories, conduct risk assessments, and keep accurate records for equipment, stock, and consumables. Oversee ordering, monitor servicing and repairs, and report relevant updates to the Facilities Manager.
• Make full use of all information and communication technologies to meet the requirements of the role and to promote organisational effectiveness.
• Conduct all financial matters associated with the role in accordance with the School’s policies and procedures.

Person Specification – Skills and Expertise

Essential

• Proficient a range of digital fabrication skills including 3D printing, laser cutting, CNC milling, CAD/CAM design, and rapid prototyping.
• Proficient a range of Design and Technology equipment skills such as bandsaws, sanders, table saw including techniques in carpentry, joinery, turning, finishing, furniture making
• Traditional model making (foam, cardboard, wood, metal)
• Hand tool usage (saws, files, chisels, hammers)
• Materials knowledge: plastics, metals, wood, textiles, composites
• Excellent experience, knowledge, skill and understanding in the use of a wide range of manufacturing processes, materials and machinery
• Knowledge and experience in the use of 3D and 2D CAD software
• Effectively communication orally, in writing and/or using visual media
• Physical ability to move equipment and materials, for example, planks, MDF boards etc
• To be proactive, use initiative and work with independence and self-motivation
• Uses initiative or creativity to resolve day-to-day problems
• Ability to work to deadlines
• Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues of all levels as well as students
• Ability to develop professional, working relationships with colleagues and students
• Good attendance and punctuality

Desirable

• A Degree level qualification in a Design related subject
• Experience of working as a Design Technology Technician, preferably within an educational setting
• Experience of working with students in an educational setting
• Knowledge and experience within Design and Technology

Remuneration package

• 835 standard hours per year (18,75 hours per week)
• 15 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Private Medical Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to work scheme
• LinkedIn Learning