Sculpture Lab Technician

University of Texas at Austin

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The College of Fine Arts at The University of Texas at Austin is seeking a Sculpture Lab Technician to provide technical support and expertise across a range of sculpture processes and materials. This position is responsible for the ongoing maintenance and safe operation of studio equipment, management of inventory and budgetary resources, and assists with the supervision of student workers. The Art and Art History department is committed to providing staff with a supportive work environment where contributions are valued and encouraged. Leadership is actively engaged and committed to ensuring staff have the resources and guidance needed to thrive, fostering collaboration and professional growth. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a high level of hands-on skill, working knowledge in sculpture, strong independent judgment, organizational and problem-solving skills, and the ability to design and implement systems for efficient facility use. A broad range of technical fabrication knowledge is essential.

Requirements

A High School Degree.
At least one year of shop and/or studio experience.
Experience working with sculpture students.
Experience in the operation, daily maintenance, and repairs of woodworking, metal fabrication, and foundry equipment.
Demonstrated extensive knowledge of Sculpture fabrication techniques and processes including mold making and casting (silicone, urethane rubber, alginate, plaster, resins), nonferrous metal casting (using bonded sand), ceramics (hand building, slip casting, electric-kiln firing and kiln maintenance), welding (Oxy/Acetylene, MIG, TIG), woodworking, electrical wiring, general construction.
Demonstrated knowledge of contemporary art and practice.
Teamwork
Effective Communication
Service Excellence
Initiative
Attention to Detail
Manage Multiple Priorities
Working experience using: Adobe Suite, Photoshop, Premiere, Illustrator, Rhino 3D, Microsoft Office, i.e. Excel, Word

Nice To Haves

A bachelor’s degree in Sculpture or relevant field.
Bookkeeping, accounting, and administrative experience
Teaching experience

Responsibilities

Assist faculty in providing demonstrations of equipment and techniques for students.
Develop and document standard operating procedures for equipment and lab processes to ensure efficient use of shared facilities and equipment.
Communicate policies, procedures, expectations, and updates clearly to students, staff, and faculty.
Supervise students, ensuring the proper and safe use of facilities.
Assist students with all aspects of construction and fabrication of their projects.
Assist in the supervision of graduate Teaching Assistants (TAs) during monitor hours and student employees, including scheduling, task delegation, and performance monitoring.
Schedule and monitor open lab hours to support student walk-ins and questions.
Maintain all sculpture facility equipment and keep it in safe working order.
Repair equipment and/or work with vendors to maintain and repair existing equipment.
Purchase and/or buy new equipment.
Maintain accurate inventory of equipment, materials, and supplies; coordinate ordering, receiving, and restocking of materials.
Maintain an organized and functional studio environment to support teaching and learning.
Other related functions as assigned.