Sculpture Studio Technician

Position Summary

The Sculpture Studio Technician coordinates the daily operations of the sculpture studios. Collaborating closely with area faculty and the Manager of Art Studios, they integrate studio components, technology, and operations with the artistic and research needs of both faculty and students. They prepare and communicate studio schedules, coordinate equipment and studio access maintain supply inventory, purchase materials and collaborate with the AAP Store to address student course supply requirements. They provide in-class technical support, lead demonstrations, and offer one-on-one assistance to students, ensuring projects align with safety standards and facility capacities. With a focus on safety and compliance, they collaborate with the Manager of Art Studios and environmental health and safety (EHS) to maintain studio safety, repair equipment, conduct safety training, and manage chemical waste disposal. The technician also supervises student monitors, conducts performance evaluations, and responds to inquiries outside regular hours

Our curriculum encompasses traditional and non-traditional sculpture techniques in wood and metal working, mold making, ceramics, soft sculpture, additive and reductive techniques, and forming and joining materials. We also support plaster casting, furniture design, installation, and utilize armatures. Familiarity with hand-building, slip casting, wheel throwing, electric kilns and clay reclamation is preferred. Collaborating with dedicated technicians in digital fabrication, wood and metal shops, the technician facilitates student access to these facilities. Familiarity with the use of these fabrication processes and their associated software assist in supporting faculty and student projects. Though a specialized tech position, they are part of a collective community of support for the Art Department and will occasionally contribute to needs outside of their area as directed by the Manager of Art Studios.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of sculpture processes and a willingness to expand their expertise and incorporate emerging technologies through research and collaboration with faculty experts. Strong management and organizational skills are essential. Proficiency in procurement, expense tracking, and equipment research is necessary. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are vital, along with the ability to lead with flexibility, empathy, sensitivity, and tact when interacting with diverse groups. The role requires both independent work and collaboration within a team environment, emphasizing a firm commitment to success. The position may evolve and/or grow over time to meet the changing needs of the college and its programs.

As part of the art studio support team, this role serves as a mentor to students and fosters a professional studio atmosphere. It is well-suited for a practicing artist who will utilize the art facilities for their own practice, gaining valuable insights into studio operations and enhancing their ability to provide an exceptional studio environment for all users. 

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

Required Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree or equivalent in a Fine Art Studio environment, and 2-4 years’ experience with sculpture equipment, techniques, and associated safety procedures; or equivalent combination.
• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.
• Demonstrated skill in understanding cultural differences.
• Must be comfortable working with students, staff, and faculty and have excellent customer service and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• The ideal candidate will have (at minimum) a BFA and cross-disciplinary training with both the digital and physical mediums of art.

About Art Studios Support Team

The Art Studio Support Team, an integral part of Cornell AAP's Facilities Department, support the studios and labs located in Tjaden Hall and the Foundry. Our dedicated team is committed to advancing AAP’s material research and practice, while also offering support for physical infrastructure. Working closely within the Facilities Department, we collaborate with the wood and metal shop, digital fabrication, and robotics, to facilitate innovative projects for both students and faculty. We actively engage with various departments across the college, including IT Solutions and the AAP store. While our primary focus is on serving the Art Department, we also support the work of students and faculty in architecture, design, and planning, encouraging a multidisciplinary approach to education and practice.