Printmaking Technician

About the role

The Printmaking Technician maintains the printmaking studio at Sarah Lawrence College, ensuring all equipment is functional, supplies are available, and safety protocols are enforced. This position provides technical support for faculty and students across printmaking processes such as intaglio, relief, and screen printing in an environment that practices newly developed nontoxic printmaking methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Prepares and maintains printmaking equipment and spaces, including intaglio presses, acid room, and exposure units, ensuring all machines and tools are in working order and available for classes.
• Manages the printmaking budget, including ordering and maintaining stock of chemicals, paper, and tools, and submitting expense reports for purchases.
• Trains and supervises student assistants, delegating tasks such as cleaning and equipment setup, and monitoring compliance with studio policies.
• Supports faculty with printmaking techniques and material recommendations, sharing expertise to enhance curricular goals.
• Ensures a safe environment by maintaining and regularly checking safety equipment such as eyewash stations and chemical storage, in partnership with Campus Safety and in accordance with institutional and OSHA standards.
• Consults with students on their projects, providing instruction on printmaking techniques, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring safe handling of materials.
• Monitors studio access, granting and overseeing swipe card access each semester.
• Assists faculty and visiting artists with studio setup, material preparation and mixing chemical solutions as needed.
• Maintains the organization of the storeroom, monitoring inventory levels and replenishing supplies.
• Prepares and mixes chemicals and solutions.
• Supports event preparation by coordinating with Visual Arts staff to ensure the studio is visitor-ready.
• Prepares the studio for annual or special maintenance tasks, such as painting walls and replacing glass slab countertops.
• Handles mail, unpacking deliveries, and organizing supplies on a weekly basis.

Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts or a related field is required, along with a minimum of 1 – 3 years of experience in printmaking or studio management. Facility management skills and knowledge of printmaking equipment, including intaglio presses, letterpresses, and exposure units, are necessary. Budget management experience and familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud for screenprinting are also required.

Physical And Cognitive Requirements

The role involves moderately sedentary work, with periods of sitting and computer use, as well as frequent walking, standing, and lifting during daily operations. The ability to organize and synthesize detailed information, and high levels of visual and manual coordination for operating equipment, are necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience as a technician or studio manager in a college setting.
• Carpentry skills and experience with minor repairs and maintenance.
• Understanding of health and safety regulations in a studio setting and experience implementing these standards.

Pay

The salary for this position is $25,000 - $28,000.