Studio Technician, Spudnik Press, Chicago

Studio Technician
Part-Time, 20 hours per week
Some evening & weekend hours required

The Studio Technician is charged with maintaining the tools, equipment, and facilities at Spudnik Press Cooperative, performing routine studio maintenance, and resolving technical issues as they arise. The ultimate goal of the Studio Technician is to ensure a conducive artistic environment for all that utilize Spudnik Press Cooperative. The Technician will be the main point
of contact for all technical and process-based questions and support, and thus must be well-versed in multiple fine art print processes. They must be comfortable with mechanical and digital technology and be able to troubleshoot and research issues they are not familiar with.

The Studio Tech will work closely with those using the studio to ensure safe operation of equipment. To this end, the Studio Tech will lead twice-weekly Orientations to authorize people to print at Spudnik Press. They will also provide proper and thorough training to Studio Fellows and Teaching Artists and orient them to our protocols and procedures regarding best practices.
When scheduling allows, the Studio Tech will assist with or teach private lessons, private workshops, and youth workshops. To help maintain a clean, professional, and safe studio space, the Studio Tech will work closely with interns, Studio Fellows and volunteers to not only maintain equipment, but to complete cleaning, organizing, and studio improvements projects.

The Shop Tech will maintain and order all supplies for the studio, including supplies for class, workshops, and publishing projects. They will assist with the administrative organization for education and studio use programs, and ensure that all rules and regulations are followed by printers. The Shop Tech should be prepared to use a database on a daily basis and regularly document and report on their work and the use of the studio. The Studio Tech will also provide instrumental support to the Publishing Program by acting as lead or assistant printer on a
variety of print projects including internal, client, and invitational fine art publishing projects. Additionally, this position will provide support to the Exhibitions Program through assisting artists and curators with install and de-install. All staff share the responsibility of serving on planning committees for our annual fundraisers, working with interns, and staffing exhibition openings and outreach events. Because the shop tech will support aspects of many programs, flexibility and time management skills are required.

The ideal candidate will enjoy collaboration while being able to work independently. They will be resourceful and comfortable troubleshooting with minimal supervision. They will always seek ways to improve the studio equipment and facilities while maintaining a space that is welcoming and comfortable for all. Competencies that have been identified as essential for all staff
at Spudnik Press include consistency and reliability, dedication to community, and conceptual thinking. Spudnik Press staff are expected to bring passion and integrity to their work while enjoying the community of creative artists, makers, students, and teachers that contribute to Spudnik Press.

For more information about Spudnik Press, please visit www.spudnikpress.org.

Key Skills & Qualifications:
• Extensive experience creating professional-quality fine art prints utilizing multiple printing processes (required)
• Studio assistant or technician experience highly preferred
• Teaching experience preferred
• Ability to work independently
• Strong problem solving skills
• Outgoing demeanor and strong communication skills

Compensation is $13.50/hour through 2017. Benefits include paid time off, waived tuition for all Spudnik Press classes, and unlimited access to all materials and equipment. Application review will begin July 15.

To apply, please send e-mail with resume and cover letter to angee@spudnikpress.org.
312-563-0302
www.spudnikpress.org
1821 W. Hubbard, Suite 302
Chicago, IL 60622