Surface Assembler / Refinement Lead

LifeFormations is hiring full-time Surface Assembly and Refinement leads at our Cincinnati.

LifeFormations location for upcoming work in theme parks, museums, and immersive experiences all over the world. This position is responsible for preparing and assembling a variety of materials, parts, and components for animated figures and scenic elements to achieve the desired creative and performance outcomes. Ideal candidates must have experience working with multiple surface materials such as 3D printed materials (e.g. Glass Filled Nylon, PLA, and resins), Fiberglass, Epoxy, and Silicone; as well as a working knowledge of mechanical hardware and fasteners, metal fabrication (e.g. grinding & welding), and mechanical assembly. Candidate must be a team player, problem solver, self-motivated to achieve superior quality and efficiency, curious, and have a critical eye for bringing many parts together into a single creative element.

Responsibilities:

• Leading the surface assembly and mechanical integration for static and animated figures as well as scenic elements.
• Learn and build upon the team’s knowledge of materials and fit-up/surface-preparation methods as required on a project-by project basis.
• Ability to problem-solve issues that may arise in the fit-up/assembly of multiple materials and parts to both designed- and bench-built structures.
• Ability to integrate a variety of surface materials, often within the same character or scenic element.
• Ability to recognize issues and be motivated to problem-solve through them to achieve desired performance and presentation.
• Ability to communicate and collaborate with mechanical engineering, digital sculpting, and plastics teams to preemptively identify and troubleshoot surface and fit-up challenges.
• Must be efficient and adaptable to changing processes and priorities in a creative studio environment.
• Produce technically excellent work; high quality of craft and attention to detail is a must.
• Maintain a safe working environment.
• Ability to stay focused and productive throughout the day.
• Adhere to company Quality Assurance Policies.

Requirements:

• Experience in a related field with a portfolio to support.
• Working knowledge of materials listed above as well as the molding and casting process of sculptures.
• Professional references that speak to your craft, accountability, and efficiency.
• Strong ability to problem-solve in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of fiberglass production, carpentry, and steel fabrication.
• Experience with both electric and pneumatic hand power tools.
• Dependable.
• Strong communication skills.
• Driver’s license required.
• High school diploma required.
• This position is full-time; must have flexibility in your schedule to allow for extended hours as needed on a project-by-project basis.

Additional skills that would be beneficial:

• Experience with surface bodywork (including prepping a surface for paint).
• Leadership mindset: Ability to lead a small- to medium-sized team.
• Ability to read assembly drawings.
• Basic knowledge of mechanical design and engineering.
• Welding.

LF is an eclectic, fast-paced studio full of artists, craftspeople, engineers, and builders who create unique, custom creations that are featured around the world in theme parks, museums and entertainment complexes. We celebrate individuals of all backgrounds and welcome any challenges thrown our way. In short, we make the seemingly impossible possible and are looking to continue to build our team with those who want to join us.

About LF Studios:

LF Studios (Formerly LifeFormations) is design and specialty fabrication studio dedicated to telling stories, making people laugh and creating lasting memories for the world's leading attractions, exhibits, branded spaces and IP based products. We specialize in animatronics, static figures and specialty scenic. For more information about LF Studios, please visit