The Lab is hiring: Lead Craftsperson / Studio Manager in Alpine

General Overview

We are a community-oriented makers studio that offers memberships, workshops, and creative experiences using a wide range of professional-grade equipment, including a CNC router, full woodworking shop, welding and metal fabrication tools, laser equipment, and more. We also partner with our sister company, Hue & Hem, producing and selling custom furniture.

In addition to hands-on craftsmanship, this role plays a critical part in shaping our growing studio community—expanding memberships, developing partnerships, and helping build new revenue opportunities for the space. Some day-to-day tasks include:

• Building high-quality custom cabinets, furniture, and bespoke pieces for clients
• Managing and executing furniture designs from concept to finished product
• Producing items for consignment with a focus on craftsmanship, durability, and aesthetics
• Hosting workshop classes to instruct individuals with varying skill levels
• Growing and managing member relationships to support a thriving community
• Creating B2B partnerships with local businesses, vendors, and collaborators
• Working with schools and educational platforms to develop maker-focused relationships
• Helping develop additional revenue streams that support long-term studio success

Responsibilities

Technical & Shop Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain major shop equipment (table saw, jointer/planer, CNC, sanders, band saws, welding equipment, metal fabrication tools)
• Maintain safe shop practices and assist in establishing standard operating procedures
• Oversee material selection, ordering, and inventory as needed

Instructional & Community Support

• Lead small project-based classes for community members
• Serve as a mentor and skills resource for beginner-level makers, studio members, and staff
• Help shape new class offerings that align with your skill set
• Support membership engagement through education, collaboration, and community-building
• Focus on constant improvement and self-learning to continue providing a world-class experience to both members and clients

Business & Growth Responsibilities

• Grow and manage studio memberships, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment
• Build partnerships with local schools, universities, and vocational programs to expand educational relationships
• Develop B2B partnerships to strengthen the studio’s network, capabilities, and visibility
• Identify and support the creation of new revenue streams—from workshops to product offerings to strategic collaborations

Qualifications

Who You Are

• A skilled woodworker, cabinetmaker, furniture builder, or fabricator with 3–10+ years of hands‑on professional experience
• Competent in fine woodworking joinery, accuracy, finishing techniques, and project assembly
• Able to interpret drawings, create cut lists, and execute precise builds with minimal supervision
• Confident and safe using all major woodshop tools; CNC or metal fabrication experience is a major plus
• Creative, patient, and enthusiastic about sharing knowledge with beginners
• Comfortable working independently on client jobs and taking ownership of outcomes
• Organized, reliable, and able to help maintain a clean, friendly, and professional studio environment
• Community-minded and excited by the opportunity to help grow a makerspace through outreach, relationships, and innovation

Preferred Skills

• CNC programming (Biesse/Rover/Biesseworks or similar)
• Welding and metal furniture fabrication
• CAD experience (SketchUp, Fusion 360, Cabinet Vision, etc.)
• Experience developing or teaching maker-style classes
• Finishing expertise (spray finishing, stains, oils, lacquers, etc.)
• Experience with partnerships, sales, or community engagement (preferred but not required)

Additional Information

Why Join Us

• Opportunity to take a lead role in developing the entire custom furniture division
• Creative autonomy to design and build original work
• Access to a full makerspace with high‑end equipment
• Flexible environment where your ideas and craftsmanship directly shape the studio’s future
• A community-centered space where your work genuinely matters to local makers
• Growth-focused role with potential for profit sharing or bonuses as the custom work and membership divisions expand

To Apply, Please Provide:

• A resume or brief summary of relevant experience
• A portfolio of past work