Exhibit Fabricator

The Position

We seek a full-time Exhibit Fabricator I to help build and install custom exhibits. We are looking for a detail-oriented, entry-level craftsperson who can help us create world-class exhibits and installations. The work is bespoke—every project is different and no two days are the same. We often embed digital systems into the objects we create, such as the multi-touch displays built by our product manufacturing team or custom exhibits designed by our Creative Services group.

Our clients for these projects are world-famous museums, zoos, aquariums, and Fortune 500 companies worldwide. This in-person position is at Ideum's studios in scenic Corrales, New Mexico (near Albuquerque and an hour from Santa Fe). This position will also travel multiple times each year to install Ideum's exhibits and products nationally and internationally.

Successful candidates will have some experience (1 to 2 years) working in a professional shop environment, preferably creating custom or one-off work, and installing that work in the field. They must know how to use tools. Basic woodworking skills are essential, though a background in metal or plastic fabrication will also be considered valuable. Proficiency in digital fabrication, especially CNC routers, will be highly regarded.

A willingness to travel for installations is also desired. We don't expect everyone to have all the skills they need; we will provide opportunities for training and for learning new skills and how to operate new equipment.

The position requires teamwork and good communication skills. We work in small fabrication teams, often collaborating with other groups at Ideum, such as AV, Hardware Workshop, or Creative Services. The Exhibit Fabricator 1 will work closely with Producers, Exhibit Designers, Media Systems Staff, and other team members. The position will report directly to the Director of Fabrication and will work closely with the Lead Exhibit Fabricator.

This position presents the opportunity to travel around the country and deliver exhibits and products to clients in the field. Travel will make up about 10% of this position's annual work. When few installations are scheduled, this position will focus on assisting the Lead Exhibit Fabricator with the construction of exhibit pieces and cabinet bases.

• 1-year minimum general shop experience
• 2 years of experience with woodworking
• Ability to see a project through from concept to completion
• Demonstrated ability to work in the field and complete exhibit & product installations
• Experience designing and building personal designs (ideally, demonstrated by a portfolio)
• Ability to use a variety of shop tools
• Detail-oriented
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to contribute to documentation and other written materials
• Highly motivated and self-directed
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Strong organizational skills
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability and willingness to travel

• Experience with Solid Works, Fusion 360, and/or other CAD software
• Experience with digital fabrication processes, especially CNC routers and laser cutters
• Experience spraying finishes: paint, lacquer
• A degree in museum studies and/or experience with museum exhibits and installations
• Knowledge of ADA standards and regulations
• Experience with metal fabrication - MIG/TIG welding, cutting, grinding
• Experience with plastic fabrication
• Experience with fine woodworking or furniture-making
• Experience in art, object design, or industrial design
• Experience with rigging
• Experience with electronics and electrical systems, especially microcontrollers and LEDs
• Experience with UI/UX or graphic design
• Experience with technical documentation
• Knowledge and/or passion for history, culture, art, or sciences

We are a multidisciplinary experience design firm that focuses on using emerging technologies in creative and unexpected ways. We create visitor-centric exhibits that evoke wonder, awe, and surprise while also telling important stories about science, art, history, and culture that have a lasting impact. We work with museums, educational institutions, Fortune 500 companies, and other entities…