FabLab Technician

TL;DR

FabLab Technician: Supporting the operation and instructional delivery of a FabLab so students can design, prototype, and test physical and digital products with an accent on equipment management, safety compliance, and hands-on student guidance. Focus on troubleshooting fabrication tools, enabling lab-based program sessions, and maintaining lab documentation, inventory, and usage records.

Location: Rwanda

Company

hirify.global (African Leadership University) develops experiential learning programs to train ethical and entrepreneurial leaders.

What you will do

• Oversee day-to-day FabLab operations, including equipment setup, routine maintenance, calibration, and safe usage.
• Manage and maintain FabLab tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, electronics kits, and soldering stations.
• Ensure strict compliance with safety protocols, access rules, and equipment handling standards; troubleshoot issues and coordinate repairs.
• Support delivery of FabLab-enabled programs (e.g., Maker Sprints, Smart Hardware Labs, Creative Build Labs) with hands-on technical guidance.
• Help students translate ideas and designs into functional prototypes; assist facilitators during lab workshops and build sessions.
• Track equipment usage, consumables, inventory levels, maintenance schedules, and maintain lab documentation, usage logs, and safety records.

Requirements

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Design, Computer Science, Technology, or a related technical field.
• Hands-on experience working with fabrication/prototyping tools (e.g., 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics, maker equipment).
• Ability to troubleshoot hardware, electronics, and basic mechanical issues.
• Basic understanding of product development, hardware prototyping, or maker-based innovation workflows.
• Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical users and guide students through trial-and-error learning.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for lab management, schedules, and equipment demands; comfort working under pressure during peak usage.

Culture & Benefits

• Work in a hands-on, innovation-focused learning environment supporting student makers and early-stage product builders.
• Emphasis on safety, integrity, and responsibility for shared equipment and spaces.
• Collaborate across programs and departments to align FabLab activities with venture program needs and timelines.
• Encouraging learning environment with a focus on enabling students to prototype and iterate.