Full-Time Technical Assistant II, FAV

Job Summary

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) seeks a Technical Assistant II to join the Film/Animation/Video department. In this department, students explore the art of the moving image, learning to master the tools needed to articulate a creative vision, whether using film, animation, installations, interactive media, or a combination. 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.

The Technical Assistant II manages, tracks, and provides access to equipment use in the Film, Animation and Video Department, including the field equipment and in-house facilities. The incumbent manages inventory and test equipment, confirms parts are operational and available, and orders new or replacement parts as needed. This position resets main studios between class meetings.

As an employer, RISD offers a supportive, collegial and inclusive work environment, and a competitive benefits package.

Essential Functions

• Provide students and faculty access to and use of FAV equipment through department check-out. Maintain accurate records of equipment use; design efficient check out and room use procedures. Maintain regular communication with faculty and staff about the use of, policies, and procedures of the FAV check-out. Maintain the equipment check-out room in a neat and orderly fashion.
• Provide over the counter training and demonstration of responsible care and handling of equipment. Engage with students to understand the intended technique and make suggestions about the most appropriate gear to achieve desired result given the student’s ability, access level, and class assignment.
• Reset main studios between classes.
• Hire, train, supervise, schedule and maintain a professional working relationship with work-study students.
• Responsible for identifying malfunctioning equipment and referencing and conveying the equipment to the outside contractors. Maintain regular communication with the FAV staff and faculty regarding the state of equipment.
• Maintain and update computer log tracking the use of FAV equipment. Management of data includes sourcing information such as who has checked out equipment, history of use of specific pieces of equipment, and histories of individual student use of equipment.
• Assist in general problem solving with other department equipment and facilities.
• Conduct an annual inventory of equipment holdings with complete testing and evaluation of such equipment.
• Originate orders for supplies and equipment within budgetary allowances in consideration of departmental and institutional goals, as well as properly accounting for expenses and maintaining documentation of all transactions.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience

• BFA degree in appropriate technical discipline or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two to four years practical experience in film, video, and animation required.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work cooperatively with and be sensitive to the diverse populations of RISD’s community is essential.
• Experience in management of inventory for an equipment rental or borrowing facility preferred. Experience working in an academic environment is preferred.
• Proven ability to interact with members of the community representing diverse backgrounds and interests

Union:
Yes; Technical Association

Work Schedule:
40 hours per week

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

Grade:
04/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.

For certain positions, RISD is currently supporting remote work arrangements due to the pandemic. When work resumes in person, employees are expected to perform work on campus.

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.

For internal use only - Job Family:

Technician