Wax Team Lead

UAP | Urban Art Projects believes incredible things don't just happen; they're created, nurtured, believed in. Spanning art, architecture, design, environments, and everything in between – UAP works with artists and creatives to make incredible things all over the world.

UAP collaborates with emerging and renowned artists, architects, developers, and designers; to deliver creative outcomes for the public realm. We engage in all aspects of the delivery process from curatorial services and design development, through to fabrication and installation.

Visit uapcompany.com for more information.

Objective: The Wax | Team Lead’s primary objectives are to coordinate Mold, Make Wax, Rework and Gating to ensure production and quality targets are met and that Wax Team talent is engaged in the work. This position is also responsible for the safety and smooth operation of activities and equipment in the Wax Department while ensuring required materials are organized, stocked and maintained.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Supervision
• • Lead, train, and mentor the Wax Team in lost wax casting to achieve production goals and maintain artistic standards.
  • Assign daily tasks, monitor progress, and provide hands-on guidance.
  • Foster a collaborative and safe work environment.
• Production & Quality Control
• • Oversee all lost wax processes including rework, gating, and mold.
  • Ensure consistency, accuracy, and quality in all completed artwork.
  • Collaborate with artists, designers, and project managers to achieve the intended artistic vision.
  • Inspect finished work for defects or deviations and take corrective actions as needed.
  • Ensuring that all consumables are stocked, and equipment is operational.

• Workflow & Scheduling
• • Coordinate production schedules to meet deadlines.
  • Track and report project progress to management.
  • Optimize workflows to reduce downtime and increase efficiency.
  • Strategizing the efficient handling of materials, information and consistent collaboration between all departments.
  • Ensuring communication channels between your department and the business are effective

• Safety & Compliance
• • Enforce adherence to safety protocols, PPE use, and OSHA standards.
  • Conduct safety checks and training for wax team staff.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Working with the team to maintain and develop clean shop practices 

Qualifications: 

• 5+ years of experience in lost wax techniques, or foundry work, with at least 5 years in a leadership role and managing projects in art production.
• Strong technical expertise in lost wax and PMMA print processes, and surface preparation.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Computer skills utilizing Microsoft Office (Teams, Outlook, Excel)
• Excellent problem solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and artistic renderings.
• Ability to solve complex problems in collaboration with various teams throughout the foundry.
• Ability to understand and coordinate all processes of the Wax Department. 
• Ability to switch quickly and continuously across different projects while maintaining momentum.
• A commitment to the art of sculpture creation!   

Physical Requirements:

• Industrial workshop environment with exposure to paint fumes, dust, and chemicals.

• Must be able to wear a respirator and other required personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods, including respirators, gloves, and protective gear.

• Must be able to stand, bend, stoop, reach, and crouch for extended periods of time.

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly.

• Frequent use of hands and arms for sanding, masking, spraying, and handling tools and materials.

• Must have good hand–eye coordination and manual dexterity for detailed paint work.

• Ability to work in confined spaces and maintain awkward positions for short periods.

• Tolerance to working in environments with strong odors, fumes, and varying temperatures (with proper protective equipment provided).

• Visual acuity to detect color variations, finish flaws, and surface imperfections.

• Hearing ability to perceive safety signals, equipment sounds, and verbal instructions.

 Accountability:    

•  Working with the Manufacturing Manager I Foundry + Finishing to realize goals set in collaboration. 
• Maintaining a smooth workflow intake and output with adjacent departments.
• Ensuring a positive, transparent connection between the Wax Team and the business with developed career trajectories. 

• Monitor Project performance in % complete vs. hours expended and remaining—GP

Performance Indicators

• The Wax Team operates safely without incident and maintains a positive work environment.

• Production goals set by the Manufacturing Manager are being set and maintained.

• Report up the communication chain when forecasting GP’s hits and manufacturing goals are in trouble.

• The Wax Team should continuously train and mentor new and alternate members.

• The Wax processes are continually improving and evolving to meet market demands.

• The Wax Department improves the workflow of the production line holistically.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts (medical and dependent care).
• Commuter and transit programs.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with 4% company match.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability and life insurance.
• Paid holidays, Paid Time Off, and sick leave.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement. 

We offer a vibrant, creative environment with great teammates. Opportunities to work on exciting, high-profile projects.

Salary Description - $36.47/hr up to $43.41/hr

UAP Productions LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and strictly prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. All employment opportunities are based on qualifications, merit, and the needs of the business.