Project Technician 1 Lead

The Franklin Institute, the most visited museum in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, strives to be the world leader in promoting science and technology education and literacy through inspiring and engaging experiences that cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and an understanding of the crucial role science plays in our lives.

At The Franklin Institute, we provide an environment that is as nurturing as it is dynamic. Our team-oriented approach allows for ample learning and career growth opportunities. We think you will find the Institute offers the ideal atmosphere in which to best use your skills and talents. We are eager for your input, ideas, and inspiration.

Position Description:

The Lead Technician will direct the Project and Operations technicians in the repair and maintenance of exhibit devices.  This position will also take part in the installation and de-installation of all travel exhibits working closely with visiting production teams and the hired IATSE installation team.  The Lead Technician will be the Program Support administrator for the Operations Work Order system.  The Lead Technician will also:

Work closely with design team as new exhibits are developed to determine staffing and equipment needs.

Update and maintain a complete inventory of all exhibits and devices. 

Supply inventory and restock as needed; ensuring inventory is up to date including maintaining spare parts inventory.

Make weekly tours of all devices and determine operational status.

Ensure that staff members are trained in the operation of the equipment and basic repair of exhibits.

Direct operations technicians in exhibit repair and maintenance.

Schedule, follow-up and report on PM maintenance tasks using reporting tools in Maintenance Connection.

Assist operations technicians with floor coverage when needed and determine when issues should be escalated.

Assign and follow-up on work orders.

Maintain a working relationship with service vendors and function as their point of contact. 

Collaborate closely with the Assistant Director of Exhibit Operations to assign daily tasks and direct daily workflow.

Attend meetings for new, permanent and travel exhibitions and weekly operations Leads meetings.

Review technical documents for new exhibits and be able to provide guidance to operations technicians as needed. 

Post event/overtime assignments for operations technicians and cover assignments as needed.

Position Requirements:

5-7 years of experience working in a maintenance or service technician field.

Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills. Computer and AV systems troubleshooting experience preferred.

Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office 360 computer programs. Will also need to learn the TFI work order system, QSys, and Dante.

Experience working in a museum, hospitality, or entertainment venue.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

The ability to work varied shifts and hours as required, including evenings and weekends.

Ability to read and interpret building and technical drawings.

Ability to install, operate, and dismantle required AV systems for events.

Experience using hand, shop, and power tools.

The ability to use pallet jacks, forklifts, and scissors lifts.

Status:  Full-time, 40 hours per week, Tuesday – Saturday (7:30 am – 4:00 pm).  Represented by I.U.O.E. Local 835.  Must be available to work a varied schedule and overtime.

Salary:  $39.07/hour

Benefits Information:

The Franklin Institute offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision, 401K, life insurance and disability coverage. We also offer generous Paid Time Off, paid holidays, and numerous wellness program benefits.

To apply, please visit our Career Center. We look forward to hearing from you!

Research shows that women and people from underrepresented groups often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications.  We recognize that it is highly unlikely that someone meets 100% of the qualifications for a role.  If much of this job description describes you, then please apply for this role.

The Franklin Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability or protected veteran status.