R&D
Entry Level R&D Engineer
We are looking for an Entry Level R&D Engineer that is passionate about making/digital fabrication and interested in learning how to build BIG intricate architectural projects. A. Zahner Company specializes in digital fabrication and mass customization of architectural projects at large scales. In this position, you will use cutting edge technology to construct many of the world’s most exciting and iconic buildings/sculptures. Past Zahner projects include: The de Young Museum, Museum of Pop Culture, Contemporary Jewish Museum, Petersen Automotive Museum, Cooper Union, Broad Art Museum, Chrysalis Amphitheatre, Stadiums, Airports and more!
Description of Role and Responsibilities
Every Zahner project is different and thus requires a custom production process. Such processes must be quickly developed and deployed to satisfy project specific requirements and design aspirations. Zahner R&D utilizes a mix of technologies and techniques (supporting and/or augmenting our in house metalworking expertise) to meet client design intent and expand what is possible to build.
R&D Engineers are responsible for supporting research projects and initiatives including process development(70%). Knowledge of architectural project delivery is helpful but not required. In addition, this position will be involved in ongoing Zahner Labs product support in the areas of design, concept refinement, modeling, fabrication, and problem solving (30%). In this role you’ll work with the larger team to take projects from concept all the way to production!
Ever built your own 3d printer or custom machine? Worked on a pavilion project or a complex assembly? Did you work in your school’s workshop or fabrication lab? Or, were you a teaching assistant for a course focused on design for manufacturing? – if so, we want to talk to you!
What you can expect
- Be part of the R&D team to plan and deploy project specific software and fabrication processes.
- Develop workflows and operating standards for the introduction of new processes.
- Design and coordinate with Zahner craftspeople to produce tools, jigs, parts, and assemblies to support project planning.
- Support Zahner Labs campaigns and proof of concepts.
Zahner installation of Petersen Automotive Museum Façade
Application Instructions
Job Title: R&D Engineer
Position: Full Time
Reports to: R&D Manager
Location: Kansas City, MO
Department: Research & Development
Date: October 2022
Send your resume to: [email protected]
*Applicants with Architecture background please provide a portfolio of past work. *Applicants with Engineering background please provide clear description of past work experience.
Example of a Zahner R&D summer intern research project. Robotic Wheeling by Elena Vazquez
Qualifications and Educational Requirements
- MS or BS Degree in related fields (mech eng, architecture, mfg engineering, etc) or equivalent experience/knowledge.
- Experience/interest in digital fabrication workflows including CAD/CAM.
- Experience using parametric design tools (Rhino/Grasshopper a plus).
- General familiarity with construction documents and architectural models.
- Relevant experience in AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) or manufacturing.
Bonus Characteristics
- Experience with basic computer programming languages like Python or Matlab.
- Previous work in the sheet metal, structural steel, or curtain wall industries is a plus.
- Experience with industrial robots and CNC machinery a plus.
- Work experience in construction or manufacturing is a plus.
- Electronics prototyping (physical computing) experience.
- Proven process development and deployment (built a 3d printer or cnc machine?).