The technological complexity behind one of the most fundamental parts of the design process has evolved progressively beyond paper and other rudimentary, hand skills-based ways of form-making to include 3D printing, laser-cutting, and even AR systems as the new and constantly improving tools that go into architectural modeling.

As part of our recurring job highlights series, we recently showcased an opportunity to work as a Signage & Wayfinding Project Manager at the iconic graphic design agency Pentagram or as an exhibition design professional at the biggest and most influential art museum in the United States. This week, we're profiling an industry heavyweight as it searches for the right person to play an important part in this crucial step essential to its philosophical underpinnings and pursuit of new business.

Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) is now hiring a full-time Model Shop Assistant to work alongside its Model Shop Manager running the day-to-day operations at the firm’s Brooklyn, New York office. The firm is looking for a self-starter with a blend of interpersonal and highly-trained organizational skills which will be essential to the execution of its myriad functions. Proficiency in Rhino and CNC milling software is considered mandatory, along with past experience working as an assistant or technician in a model shop, fabrications laboratory, or other kinds of high-tech maker spaces.

Part of the job will entail training team members and serving as a point person for any of their technical assistance needs. The Assistant will also help the Manager to develop and implement any new shop protocols, coordinate equipment service contracts, and inventory material all while maintaining the shop’s equipment and also working closely with the in-house Archivist to store models for later use.

Model making is an integral part of any design process for any firm; and BIG is no exception, incorporating the most cutting-edge technology into what is becoming more and more a small but very influential cog within this interdisciplinary and highly collaborative office. Recent projects through the shop have included the 3D printing of much-needed face shields that were supplied to the city’s Weill Cornell and Mount Sinai hospital systems during Covid. A mind for creative learning and constant improvisation will therefore be indispensable in the role, which has an outsized potential for future growth.

BIG as a company is based around the Danish concept of formgiving, which has recently engendered such projects as the Mars Dune Alpha experimental habitat for NASA and the forthcoming 3D printed pop-up neighborhood in Texas’ burgeoning state capital. 

Relisten to Archinect Session's chat with Bjarke Ingels at the opening of BIG's "Hot to Cold" exhibition at the National Building Museum

The full job description can be accessed here. Stay tuned for future curated job highlights and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for more exciting opportunities on Archinect's industry-leading job board.

For a closer look into this highly specialized niche of the architecture industry, look up Archinect's Guide to Job Titles: Model Maker.