What are the responsibilities and job description for the Technical Assistant III, Knitting position at RISD - Rhode Island School of Design?
Job Summary
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) seeks a Technical Assistant III, Knitting to join Textiles.
The Technical Assistant III 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 assigned department courses and labs. The position provides advice and guidance on technical parameters of student projects. The Technical Assistant II designs, builds, maintains, and repairs complicated and diverse technical equipment required in the department and/or works with outside vendors to arrange for more complicated repairs. The role inventories and purchases stock materials required to keep lab and classes operating smoothly and efficiently.
We seek a culturally competent candidate who 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:
- Oversee and maintain optimal operation and functioning of the following: CAD Lab computers, printers, scanners and related software; industrial knitting machines and related CAD software, single- and double-bed knitting
machines and related knitting equipment (cone winders, yarn twisting machine, linkers and industrial sergers). Keep related textile machinery and equipment in a neat and orderly manner. Maintain computers and software
connected to the machines. - 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 time-cards, process and monitor paperwork on such transactions.
Additional Functions:
- Perform related assignment as directed by the supervisor. (Miscellaneous duties can include, but are not limited to work orders, assisting with room preparation for critiques, assisting in the setup of department exhibitions at school gallery, assisting visiting artists in workshops, etc.)
Required Knowledge/Skills/Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts or equivalent combination of education and technical experience.
- Four to six years practical experience in the textile design or related field.
- Sensitivity to materials and precision.
- Excellent interpersonal communications skills and basic computer skills required.
- Knowledge of textile techniques, experience with textile software.
- Ability to work cooperatively with and be sensitive to the diverse populations of RISD’s community.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous knitting and CAD experience preferred.
- Supervisory or leadership experience preferred
Union:
Yes; Technical Association
Work Schedule:
40 hours per week; 12 months per year
Employment Status:
Full-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 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
