Job Summary

Rhode Island School of Design seeks a Technical Assistant III, Surface to join the Textiles department which offers a broad-based education in many aspects of fabric, fiber, and pattern, emphasizing a thorough understanding of the design process, structure, materials, and techniques. Our students are diverse, coming from a wide range of geographic, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds, representing all forms of diversity. We seek a culturally competent candidate who will thrive in a campus environment that advances principles of social equity and inclusion, environmental and climate justice, and equal access to resources and opportunities.

In this position, the Technical Assistant III, Surface instructs faculty and students in the safe and proper use, care, storage, and, as appropriate, disposal of machinery, general equipment, safety equipment, and supplies/materials. This role identifies, researches, evaluates, and presents recommendations on new and existing technology, equipment, and features for use in the assigned department courses and labs. The Technical Assistant III, Surface provides advice and guidance on technical parameters of student projects. Additionally, this role designs, builds, maintains, and repairs complicated and diverse technical equipment required in the department and/or work with outside vendors to arrange for more complicated repairs. As well, the Technical Assistant III, Surface performs inventory and purchases stock materials required to keep lab and classes operating smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Functions

• Oversee and maintain optimal operation and functioning of assigned labs and equipment, including but not limited to CAD Lab computers, printers, scanners and related software, digital fabric printer and digital embroidery machine and related software; fabric silkscreen studios, dye labs, the industrial steamer, and related textile machinery as appropriate.
• Perform preventative maintenance to and minor repairs on machinery and equipment as required, such as scheduled lubrication and cleaning; arrange with outside vendors for repairs that cannot be done in the department.
• Train and assist faculty, students, and others in the proper use operation, handling and care of machinery, safety equipment, supplies and in following safety procedures; train and assist faculty and students in the implementation of the EPA hazardous materials standards; provide advice and guidance on the technical parameters of student projects.
• Order supplies and maintain proper inventory levels. Develop and maintain a system of checking out and in equipment and supplies; track and chart supply usage and compile and report on the same; assist in budget development and review for the textile department by recording, updating, analyzing, tracking and reporting on all textile budget expenditures and financial transactions.
• Research and suggest improvements to, or modifications of, the facility, machines, equipment, and tools. Design and/or construct specialized equipment or unique models as requested by faculty, department heads, or deans.
• Assist with physical setup of tools, materials, and spaces for classes.
• Hire, train, schedule, and oversee student monitors. Ensure that studios and labs are sufficiently covered as needed for the textile department; monitor student timecards, process, and monitor paperwork on such transactions.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts or equivalent combination of education and technical experience.
• Four to six years of practical experience in the textile design or related field.
• Experience with digital equipment and CAD software as well as advanced computer skills required. Sensitivity to materials and precision.
• Excellent interpersonal communications skills required. Knowledge of textile techniques, experience with textile software.
• Supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
• Ability to work cooperatively with and be sensitive to the diverse populations of RISD's community.

Union:
Yes

Work Schedule:
40 hours per week; 12 months per year

Employment Status:
Full-Time, Non-exempt (hourly)

Grade:
03/CT-TU

Documents Needed to Apply:
Resume
Cover Letter

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 diversity and inclusivity as fundamental to its learning community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and 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.

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