Lead Technician, Visual Arts

University of Ottawa•Ottawa, ON

6d•CA$85,040 - CA$107,421•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Chair of the Department of Visual Arts, provide technical and pedagogical support to the Visual Arts Department to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the workshop and associated studio spaces, and to support the delivery of teaching, research-creation, and exhibition activities. In this role, the incumbent is required to support faculty and students through technical instruction, supervise the safe use of specialized equipment, maintain workshop facilities, manage materials and inventory, and assist with artistic production and exhibition activities. The position also includes a teaching component consisting of the design and delivery of one undergraduate studio course per year in sculpture or a related field, including course preparation, student evaluation, and participation in a studio-based learning environment.

Requirements

Master’s degree in fine arts or related field or equivalent education and experience
A minimum of 3 years experience in knowledge of respective technical practices, tools and equipment, and shop environments
Ability to teach technical skills at basic and advanced levels
Experience delivering workshops and technical demonstrations
Knowledge of health and safety standards and WHMIS
Ability to manage workshop operations, inventory, and equipment maintenance
Ability to manage supplies, ordering, and budgets
Experience supporting artistic production and exhibition installation
Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
Ability to build respectful relationships with diverse students and faculty
Bilingualism – French and English (spoken and written)

Responsibilities

Provide technical support and guidance to undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and visiting artists. Welcome, inform, and direct workshop users, assess needs, and ensure appropriate follow-up while maintaining a safe and inclusive working environment. Support students and provide hands-on assistance and instruction in the safe and effective use of woodworking or metal working equipment and tools, troubleshoot technical challenges, and guide students through the processes required to complete their work within course requirements. Support both the technical and conceptual aspects of student work.
Design and teach undergraduate studio sessions in sculpture or a related area. Develop and deliver course content, assignments, and evaluation.
Direct and manage the workshop and associated studio spaces. Inspect equipment regularly and perform or coordinate maintenance and repairs.
Implement and enforce health and safety policies and procedures. Provide training on safe equipment use, identify and assess risks, ensure proper storage of hazardous materials, maintain first aid supplies, and act as a resource person for safety and fire-related matters.
Act as a primary liaison between the Department and university services (transport, maintenance, and campus protection) for major building issues, including equipment failures, water or gas leaks, and fire hazards. Collaborate with Facilities staff in renovation and maintenance projects, and participate in the planning, coordination and implementation of facility renovations. Manage the studio spaces ensuring they remain clean, organized, and free of hazardous or toxic materials in accordance with established safety standards.
Prepare, update, and maintain technical documentation, safety procedures, and instructional materials related to workshop equipment and processes. Draft and revise written materials for workshops, courses, and equipment use, and ensure clarity and compliance with university standards.
Coordinate access to the workshops and related facilities to support course delivery and student work. Organize workshop usage, ensure availability of equipment and materials, and assist in coordinating activities related to teaching and production schedules.
Maintain effective communication with faculty, students, technicians, and administrative staff to ensure coordination of workshop activities, courses, and exhibition timelines.
Coordinate the acquisition of materials, tools, and equipment. Obtain quotes, prepare orders, receive and verify deliveries, and maintain inventory systems to ensure availability of required resources.
Maintain inventory records, equipment logs, maintenance schedules, and safety documentation. Ensure proper tracking of tools and materials and maintain organized systems for storage and distribution.
Assist in the planning and execution of exhibitions within the Department. Provide guidance to students in the preparation and installation of artwork and coordinate the technical aspects of exhibition setup to ensure safe, efficient, and timely completion.
Participate in planning and implementing improvements to workshop operations, equipment, and facilities. Recommend new tools and processes to enhance teaching quality, safety, and efficiency.
Train, supervise, and coordinate the work of student assistants. Ensure they have completed the required WHMIS training and adhere to all applicable health and safety procedures.