Model Making & Fabrication Intern
Location: Irvine CA
Type: Part Time
Department: Design/Production
Applications accepted on a rolling basis
Role Overview
We are seeking aModel Making & Fabrication Internto oversee all physical and digital model-making operations within our architecture studio. This role is responsible for managing our in-house fabrication tools supporting design teams maintaining material standards and ensuring efficient high-quality production of architectural models at all project scales.
This position blendshands-on fabricationtechnical expertise andoperational management and will serve as the primary resource for model-making strategy execution and innovation within the firm.
Key Responsibilities
Model Making & Fabrication
- Oversee all architectural model production including concept schematic and presentation models
- Operate and maintain:
- 6 Prusa XL FDM 3D printers
- 2 Bambu Lab A1 3D printers
- Laser cutting equipment (xTool P2S)
- Establish best practices for model scale material use file preparation and output quality
- Troubleshoot fabrication issues and optimize print and cut workflows
- Coordinate model production schedules with project teams to meet deadlines
- Convert detailed architectural Sketchup and Revit files into 3D-printable models
Software & Digital Workflow
- Prepare manage and model files for fabrication using:
- SketchUp Rhino 3D PrusaSlicer Bambu Studio xTool Studio
- Develop standardized workflows from digital model to physical output
Materials Inventory & Budgeting
- Manage material cataloging labeling and storage systems
- Track inventory levels for filaments sheets model materials and consumables
- Handle ordering vendor coordination and cost tracking
- Develop and manage the model shop budget
- Recommend new materials tools and technologies as the department evolves
Operations & Studio Integration
- Maintain a clean safe and organized fabrication environment
- Document procedures machine settings and standards
- Train staff on basic equipment use and fabrication guidelines
- Support firm-wide initiatives involving physical models exhibitions and client presentations
Qualifications
Required
- Professional experience in architectural model making digital fabrication or fabrication lab management
- Hands-on experience with FDM 3D printing and laser cutting
- Proficiency in:
- SketchUp
- Rhino
- PrusaSlicer
- Bambu Studio
- xTool software
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills
Preferred
- Background in architecture industrial design fabrication or related field
- Experience managing inventories and budgets
- Interest in evolving fabrication technologies and methods
What This Role Offers
- Opportunity to build and shape a dedicated model-making department from the ground up
- Direct collaboration with architects and designers across project phases
- Ownership over tools processes and standards within the firm
Equal Opportunity Employer
MVE Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit qualifications and abilities. MVE does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of: race color religion gender national origin age sexual orientation gender identity ability veteran status or any other characteristic protected by country regional or local law.
In accordance with local Fair Chance Ordinance(s) qualified applicants including those with criminal histories will be considered for employment.
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