Technical Assistant III, Interior Architecture (Part-Time)

Job Summary

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) seeks a Part-Time Technical Assistant III to join Interior Architecture. The part-time Technical Assistant III in Interior Architecture serves as the key technical contact in a lively learning community that mixes digital studio processes with traditional analog ones in service of exploring the built environment. Responsible for the set-up and operation of the core making space for the Department. Instruct faculty and students in the safe and proper use of equipment, hardware, and software. Provide advice and guidance on the technical and conceptual parameters of student projects. Provide maintenance and repairs on diverse technical equipment required in the department. Implement environmental health and safety practices in equipment spaces in coordination with the relevant RISD offices. Coordinate with faculty on the physical setup of tools, equipment, materials, and spaces for classes. 

The successful candidate will thrive in a campus environment that is committed to advancing the principles of social equity and inclusion, environmental and climate justice, and equal access to resources and opportunities. 

Essential Functions:

• Set up and operate core making spaces for the Department, including the shared making spaces in the studio (CIT), 3D printing equipment hardware, 3D scanning survey machinery, VR Hardware, studio printers, and other ancillary spaces dedicated to project-based learning. 

• Aid in moving and arrangement of studio dedicated furniture in the various multi-use spaces or as needed to support dynamic learning spaces. Submit work orders to facilities as needed. 

• Provide advice and guidance to faculty and students on the technical parameters of class assignments and projects and the proper handling and care of machinery and making processes. Implement environmental health and safety practices in equipment spaces in coordination with the relevant RISD offices.

• Administer web hosting accounts, set up domains and digital accounts with faculty and students. 

• Perform preventative maintenance to and make both minor and major repairs on machinery, software upgrades and equipment as needed. Arrange with outside vendors for repairs that cannot be done internally. 

• Research, set up, and maintain new equipment and spaces as curriculum, models and technologies evolve. This includes the set-up of lighting, moldmaking/casting spaces. Order equipment, related supplies, and other purchases to support student making and maintain proper inventory levels.

• Hire, train, schedule, and supervise student monitors.  

• Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in appropriate discipline or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

• Minimum four years of practical or relevant work experience in the art & design disciplines and associated technologies required. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Excellent interpersonal communications skills and the ability to work with a wide variety of individuals and identities through respectful, positive interactions. 

• Familiarity and interest in working with a wide range of digital tools including 3D printers, 3D scanning survey machinery, VR Hardware, laser printers, CNC Milling machinery, physical computing technologies, Lighting & digital cameras for photo lab studio, Mac OS, Adobe Creative Cloud, Autodesk and Rhinoceros, other printing equipment. 

• Demonstrated interest in working with analog processes such as casting, plaster work, ceramics firing and other moldmaking & modelling methods & materials.

• Fluency with contemporary digital platforms and networking systems including but not limited to Mac OS, Chrome/Google products, Apple & windows products, (laptops, monitors, etc), Autodesk, Rhinoceros, Adobe CC, real-time rendering software 3D building animation software.

• Ability to proactively anticipate needs, make suggestions and think creatively and organizationally. 

• Commitment to supporting an inclusive work environment and the ability to work respectfully and effectively across differences in background, role, and perspective.

Union:

Yes, Technical Association

Work Schedule:

20 hours per week 

Employment Status:

Part-time; Non-exempt; Regular

Grade:

840NE

Work Modality

On-Campus

Documents Needed to Apply:

Resume (Required)

Cover Letter (Required)

Salary Grade Structure

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please upload all required documents.

The successful candidate will be required to meet our pre-employment background screening requirements.

RISD recognizes inclusion and belonging as fundamental to its learning and working community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to this community and to our commitment to excellence. RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.