Technical Assistant - Studio Art

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The Studio Arts department in the Sarofim School of Fine Arts at Southwestern University invites applications for a Technical Assistant.  This is a 10-month, full-time professional staff position with benefits.  The work schedule will be August 15-June 14, M-Th, 12:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m., Friday hours flexible.

This position provides technical assistance to the faculty in Studio Art in support of their classes in sculpture, ceramics, design, photography, digital arts and architecture.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:  supervise evening labs in ceramics, sculpture, design, digital photography and computer animation and architecture; inventory, order, deliver, store and maintain supplies and materials for ceramics, sculpture, design, digital photography and architecture studios; prepare classroom materials; maintain and repair tools and equipment in the studios; maintain, load and fire both gas and electric kilns; supervise student workers and enrolled students in the studios; assume responsibility for HAZMAT and safety programs in all assigned studios and the teaching of safety/HAZMAT procedures to students and faculty (training provided); construct and repair studio furniture; assistance with student exhibitions in assigned media.

Primary qualifications:  MFA in ceramics or sculpture; knowledge of the function of various tools used to work in the following media: clay, stone carving, metal fabrication, wood fabrication, wax and bronze casting; knowledge and ability to operate and maintain gas and electric kilns, electric and pneumatic tools, wood shop tools, oxyacetylene welding and arc cutting tools; strong design and carpentry skills; ability to weld; ability to surface finish all types of wood; ability to demonstrate use of shop equipment to students; strong organizational skills; familiarity with Photoshop and Carrara software and willingness to learn new software; knowledge, understanding, and acceptance of cultural differences and the diversity within the campus and community.  Must also be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.  Prior experience working in ceramics or sculpture is preferred. 

Southwestern University offers competitive salary and benefits including health, dental, life, long term disability, retirement, 15-paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, tuition assistance, access to athletic facilities, free parking and discounted meal rates.  Southwestern University is a selective, undergraduate institution committed to a broad-based liberal arts, sciences, and fine arts education.   Southwestern University is deeply committed to fostering a diverse educational environment and especially encourages applications from members of groups traditionally under-represented in academia.  For information concerning the University, visit our Web site at www.southwestern.edu.