Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Studio Manager and Shop Supervisor, the Studio Assistant provides critical instructional, technical, and safety support during open shop hours and class labs. This part-time, 9-month position assists in monitoring daily operations, ensuring a safe working environment, and guiding students and faculty through the safe execution of fabrication projects.

Ideal Candidate Statement

The ideal candidate is a skilled fabricator and art preparator who can confidently demonstrate and supervise diverse processes across woodworking, metalsmithing, and basic welding. They possess an unwavering commitment to safety, a proactive approach to studio cleanliness, and the communication skills necessary to mentor students, faculty, and student assistants. Additionally, they should be well-versed in standard art preparation and gallery installation practices, including the fabrication and utilization of cleats, mounts, pedestals, and hanging hardware.

Workplace Requirements

On-campus position: This position is exclusively on-site, requiring all duties to be performed in person.

Hiring Range

$22.00 – $25.00 per hour, depending on skills and qualifications. This is a 9-month, non-exempt (hourly) position requiring 20 hours per week and is not benefits-eligible.

Physical Demands

Long periods of standing, bending, and lifting. Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Working Conditions

Cement floors; steel-toed shoes and safety glasses required.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience above and beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis.)
• 1+ years of relevant experience (In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education above and beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis.)

Skills

• Proficiency in the safe operation and instruction of woodworking power and hand tools, metal fabrication tools, and basic welding equipment.
• Knowledge of best practices for professional art-handling protocols and gallery installation techniques.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex safety and technical instructions clearly to a diverse academic community.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with a proven ability to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks.
• High attention to detail, with a proactive, collaborative approach to problem-solving and studio maintenance.

Preferences

• B.A. or higher in Studio Art, Art Education, or Art Conservation/Preservation.
• Advanced, expert-level knowledge of specialized metalworking and woodworking equipment.
• Prior experience working within a university-level studio art or fabrication environment.
• Current First Aid and/or CPR certification.
• Direct experience with Rice University academic or studio workflows.
• Familiarity with or cross-disciplinary experience in ceramics, plaster, sewing, laser cutters, spray booths, 3D printers, or fibers/textiles.

Essential Functions

• Supports the daily operations, maintenance, and organization of the lab, workshop, studio, and maker spaces, including all associated equipment, machinery, and materials.
• Enforces and trains students, faculty, and student assistants on applicable university safety standards and cleanup protocols to ensure a hazard-free environment.
• Staffs and monitors scheduled “open shop” hours.
• Provides technical expertise, continuity, and direct supervision to students; assists them in resolving technical fabrication problems, choosing appropriate materials, and mastering equipment use.
• Demonstrates the safe and proper use of specialized tools and techniques, including: Wood Shop: Miter saws, band saws, scroll saws, and various sanders. Metal Shop: Oxyacetylene torches, cutting wheels, grinders, and welders. Techniques: Painting stretcher-bar construction and standard art preparation hardware installation (e.g., D-rings, cleats, mounts).