Amsterdam, Netherlands
Mechanical engineer
at Studio Drift
Studio Drift is seeking a mechanical engineer to join its team in Amsterdam.
Profile
32-40 hours
Extensive background and experience in Engineering and prototyping.
At least three years’ relevant work experience in a comparable position.
DRIFT
DRIFT, founded by Lonneke Gordijn and Ralph Nauta, is a dynamic art studio that develops site specific often kinetic installations that incorporate state-of-the-art technologies. Drift focuses on the dialogue between seeming contradictions between nature and technology. Nature is a leading source of inspiration, where the creative process is fuelled by innovation and technology. Our studio is internationally oriented and is located in the top segment of the international art and design world.
In our studio in Amsterdam we work with 35 people of more than ten nationalities on the development and production of artworks and installations that are sold and exhibited all over the world. Since each project requires unique skills and knowledge we collaborate with a wide array of external professionals while doing all custom development and production in house.
The development team
Our development team is responsible for realizing new ideas for our artworks. We are the innovative part of DRIFT, where we constantly strive to make the impossible possible. We work in quick sprints on multiple technical projects. Our methodology is all about increasing the speed in which we bring new artworks to the world. We work on multiple projects, in rapid succession. Stepping outside your comfort zone is part of this process. We have an ambitious team with a drive for success. There is no nine to five mentality, as we have the chance to be part of some amazing results.
You will work in a multidisciplinary team under the supervision of the project manager and development director.
Job description
Mechanical solutions form the backbone of DRIFT. There are not many artists that give mechanical solutions (motors, gears, PCB’s) such a prominent display in their artworks. Your function is to design and construct these solutions, from rough idea to reality. To do this, you bring a lot of knowledge of manufacturing, you can quickly and accurately draw in 3D-CAD software and communicate with companies using technical drawings. However, before this stage, you test your ideas by making quick prototypes and mock-ups. Hardware engineering is your main focus, but you know the principles of connecting actuators or software to your designs.
Required hard skills and characteristics
- university degree in a mechanical engineering related field
- drawing in 3D CAD software and technical drawings (preferably Onshape)
- you are an expert in prototyping quick mechanical solutions
- understanding of actuators and kinetic principles
- extensive knowledge of materials and manufacturing (Metals, wood and plastics)
- you have a large (NL) network in the maker industry
- three years’ experience in a similar function and a broad set of example projects
- familiar with designing for micro-scale (precision mechanics) and macro-scale (architecture)
- you embed artistic qualities in your engineering work, but in how it looks and how it moves
Required soft skills
- a can-do mentality with a knack for problem-solving
- analytical view combined with a creative view
- strong team player, communication in the team is key
- you have a strong passion for engineering, that extends in your own time as well
- good interest in staying up to date with new technologies
- a high energy, entrepreneurial spirit
Reaction
If interested, please send your portfolio, motivation and CV for the attention of Martino Bidotti before February 28 2021.
For more information see: www.studiodrift.com. For specific questions regarding this vacancy please contact Erik Swaagstra at +31 (0)6 1865 2246. Please only reply if you meet all requirements and experience.