Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

To provide graphic production services, particularly for new exhibits and/or maintenance of existing exhibits at the Ontario Science Centre. To perform related duties, as assigned.

Duties / Responsibilities :

1. In a multi-disciplinary, team approach setting, organizes own work activities and uses graphic lay-out skills to produce graphic designs by: receiving Designer's sketch and work order, discussing specifica-tions, colour with Designer, verifying details and special instructions; using "Photographic" or "Hand Cutting" techniques to transfer designer's graphics drawn on clear autopositive film or paper, i.e.traces drawing onto paper or amberlith film, cuts out lettering and details on paper copy or amberlith copy, exposes cut out copy onto blue Polyfilm with arc lamp, develops film, washes film (which becomes a positive "stencil"), transfers stencil to wet silk screen removing cello backing from film when dry; using matrocolour/chromatec, production;systems of proofing and transfer mixing colours to match Designer's colour requirements on graphics using a pantone colour system and other colour swatches; making screens for producing graphic reproductions (e.g. cuts nylon to fit required size frame), using Newman Roller System and tension meters and torque wrenches;installing and removing (photographs) and other keys, and hammers.

2. Uses screen printing skills to reproduce Designer's graphics onto a variety of surfaces by: placing graphic panels , exhibit on layout table; setting screen in clamps over panel or display poster, or placing screen over exhibit in work shop; applying ink to screen (stencil) and to panel by downward pressure of squeegee brush on screen, spreading ink through screen onto panel, repeating process for each colour application;
cleaning screens and frames with cleaning solution under pressure in re­ circulating spray tank equipped with fume hood, i.e. cleans ink from screens and frames with spray gun, volatile vapours are drawn off in fume hood, solution is reused for further cleaning; employing airbrushing techniques on graphic materials (e.g. , panels, photographs), utilizing water-based and solvent-based materials, including cutting friskets and mixing appropriate inks and paints to be sprayed for this purpose. Note : This process is used to enhance illustrations and images and to provide such things as depth perception, illusions and graduated backgrounds.

3. Prepares graphics directly for exhibits, signs, graphics on new exhibits or in maintenance of existing exhibits by: using various graphics software programs to design and produce graphics for permanent and temporary exhibits; independently using the Gerber Grafix Advantage System (scanner, plotter, and advanced keyboard operations) for temporary and permanent building signage . Note: This system is a sophisticated design terminal allowing the operator the ability to produce advanced texts and images; laying out, installing computer-cut vinyl onto various substrates utilizing both "wet" and "dry" applications;
removing and replacing vinyl, as required; preparing paper stencil of graphics for direct application on signs, walls i.e. traces graphics on paper, cuts out designs, letters, to form stencil; applying stencil directly on exhibits, wall areas, signs with cello tape or rubber cement; mixing paint to match Designer's colour requirements; transferring graphics onto wall areas, signs with required paint by brush or hand rollers;
making enlargements of graphics to required size on paper to produce stencils (i.e. use light projector to project designer's graphics on screen), copies screened image on paper, cutting out lettering, sketch, to make stencils.

4. Performs related and/or auxiliary duties such as: mounting photographs on exhibit panels using dry method (photo backing and adhesive pressed together under heat and pressure in dry mounting machine) and wet method (glue solution applied to back of water soaked photo, pressed on backing, excess solution squeezed out, 1-2 per month) ; laminating a variety of substrates and artifacts using a pressurized application system (e.g. for travelling exhibits and events, and temporary signages); maintaining equipment; developing and maintaining films and technical files; assisting in development and operation of an apprenticeship program for a junior graphics technician; performing on-going preventative maintenance as scheduled (e.g. cleaning, adjusting, replacing as required); handling top priority breakdowns or failures in equipment as soon as possible to ensure as many exhibits as possible are in satisfactory running order;
repairing incorrect function and/or equipment by appropriate method, and depending on the nature of the equipment and complexity, consults other members of staff in other Centre shops.

Exhibit Repair, Renewal and Maintenance:
5. Provides repair and maintenance services for exhibits by: receiving repair slips on rotation basis from Lead Hand; determining or verifying independently the cause(s) of exhibit breakdown, whether or not indicated on repair slip and providing input for possible enhancements and upgrades to exhibit; repairing a wide variety of exhibits by replacing or repairing, using state-of-the-art graphic production techniques; in the absence of the group leader, participating in the negotiation for and engaging services of outside suppliers for new technology and sub­ contracting; specifying equipment and materials to facilitate project goals in a cost effective manner and ordering same; liaising, on an on-going basis, with other Centre Shops;
maintaining current knowledge of new developments in computer-assisted graphic production technologies;
maintaining a library and data base on state-of-the-art parts and equipment, and researching new products and ideas from trade magaz ines and known distributors and manufacturers; in the absence of the group leader, contacting sales representatives to provide product demonstrations; attending trade shows, seminars and training courses; participating in Outreach Shows (travel and set-up) by instructing on and participating in the installation of graphics; conforming to safety standards and requirements by ensuring safety clothing and equipment are used when and where required; as assigned.

Knowledge :

Knowledge of correct use of trade equipment, machinery and an array of specialized tools . Up-to-date knowledge of changing materials and technology.

Skills :

Proven ability to produce finished product form a designer's sketch or film. Ability to use different applications in combination. Strong organization skills regarding graphic production operations. Proven communication (oral and written)and interpersonal skills to deal effectively with skilled tradespeople and other staff. Ability to provide training to junior graphics technicians .Ability to work with other trades and manufacturers ' representative. Proven ability to interpret and work from drawings and sketches. Ability to work within relevant industry and Ontario Science Centre standards . Problem solving skills and the ability to anticipate probable outcome and recommend viable options; initiative and ability to manage one's own schedule. Analytical and planning skills. Ability to conceptualize and realize Designer's specifications and ensure aesthetic quality of final product.

Freedom of Action :

Judgement :
Judgement is exercised in determining the nature of the project, modifying/adapting/selecting methods on own and commenting on the merits and feasibility of the designer's ideas to actual fabrication (e.g. when mixing paint to match the Designer's colour requirements). Judgement is also exercised in providing technical expertise and insights throughout the life of the project. Judgement is also used in taking initiative where and when opportunities arise to improve exhibit up-time, reduce maintenance costs and replace obsolete material to improve overall exhibit quality. Judgement is also used to independently plan and carry out work under minimal supervision/ estimate project materials/time/cost requirements. Judgement is also used to provide advice to designers on foreseeable outcome (e.g. colour choice); and toe provide input for possible enhancements and upgrades to exhibit.

Accountability:
Incumbent is fully accountable for:
Effectively working with Designer's and Scientists, as assigned, to determine graphic requirements of exhibit; (i.e. function, physical abuse, compatibility, serviceability and aesthetics,); using graphics lay-out skills to produce graphics to realize designer's specifications ; preparing for production of graphics directly on exhibits, signs, graphics on new exhibits or in maintenance of existing exhibits; maintaining clean, safe, and secure shop/storeroom; requisitioning tools, parts, materials, and arranging repairs to tools, equipment and machinery; exercising due diligence on safety issues at all times.

Impact of error is such that omissions and other mistakes and misjudgments would result in waste of time, money and other resources.

Note : Willingness to work some weekends, statutory holidays and evenings. Willingness to travel occasionally.