Job Description

Job Summary:

The Book Arts Studio assistant performs a variety of tasks directly related to the operation of the Book Arts Studio at Boatwright Memorial Library. Students will be tasked with general studio maintenance, including: organizing and maintaining studio and supplies, assisting with studio set up for instruction, daily maintenance of binding and printing equipment, distributing metal type, and preparation of materials and supplies for classes and events. Students will also be tasked with learning to use and maintain studio technologies including but not limited to the Boss laser cutter, Risograph printer, ShopBot CNC router, Formlabs 3D printer, and design software. Students will familiarize themselves with the software associated with these technologies and be able to troubleshoot tech issues with staff and/or student visitors to the studio. Student assistants also work closely with Book Arts Program Director and Book Arts Studio Manager to create handmade books, prints, and other creative project samples for instruction and outreach events. Position works moderately independently with frequent feedback from supervisor. Attention to detail and independent problem solving are crucial.

Position starts at Level 1 and pay rate is $13.25/hour.

Specific Duties:

• Assist Book Arts Studio Manager and Book Arts Program Director with creation of creative project samples, including handmade books, letterpress prints, relief prints, among others.
• Organize and maintain studio tools and materials, including Creativity and Bookbinding Kits.
• Assist student visitors to the studio with the use of software on Windows and Macintosh.
• Collaborate with staff and student employees to troubleshoot technology challenges.
• Perform routine maintenance of bookbinding and printing equipment.
• Redistribute metal type to correct drawers after class use.
• Prepare materials and studio for class instruction and drop-in events.
• Assist with organization, set-up, and breakdown of Book Arts Studio pop-up maker events.
• Assist students using tools and equipment during Book Arts Studio Open Hours.
• Assist with updates and care for studio technologies.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Interest in book arts and printmaking, specifically letterpress printing and book making.
• Employee must be a UR student in good-standing and currently enrolled at UR in either an undergraduate or graduate program.
• Previous experience with art materials, including drawing, hand bookbinding, and relief printing, preferred but not required.
• Prior experience with at least one of the following creative studio technologies such as 3d printing, laser cutting, or CNC routing equipment and software, preferred but not required.
• Prior experience with Adobe Creative Suite software such as Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, preferred but not required.
• Must possesses the ability to pay attention to details, problem solve, and think critically.
• Must be able to lift objects weighing 30 pounds or less.
• Must be able to work independently and follow written instructions when necessary.
• Must communicate clearly and timely using both verbal skills and e-mail with full-time staff.
• Must be available to work 8-12 hours per week including daytime, evening, and Sunday.
• Good attendance and timeliness are crucial and deviations from the scheduled must be reported on time.

Note to Applicant:

This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.