Apparel Design Tech Lead & Shop Operations

RISD - Rhode Island School of Design; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Union membership

Job summary

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) seeks a Technical Assistant III for the Apparel Design Department. The role maintains shop machinery, supports instructional activities, and trains work-study students to ensure safe operation of equipment.

Responsibilities include coordinating with ITS for the Computer Lab, overseeing budgets for equipment, and ensuring compliance with EPA/OSHA regulations and RISD policies. This on-campus, full-time position emphasizes safety and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and four years of practical work experience in art and design disciplines.
• Knowledge of garment manufacturing processes and machinery.
• Experience with environmental health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and troubleshoot shop machinery and department equipment across rooms and facilities.
• Coordinate routine and emergency equipment maintenance with RISD Facilities and contractors.
• Assist with critiques, runway shows, and exhibitions, organizing spaces and equipment.
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise work-study students with emphasis on safety.
• Instruct and support faculty, staff, and students in safe use of equipment and procedures.
• Coordinate hardware/software setup with ITS for department computer lab and offices.
• Research, procure, and manage apparel-specific equipment and software.
• Develop policies for lab operations and communicate them to faculty, staff, and students.
• Ensure compliance with RISD EPA, RI DEM, Narragansett Bay Commission, and OSHA regulations; act as liaison with EHS and Academic Affairs.

Skills

Garment manufacturing

Textile knowledge

Safety & EPA knowledge

Budgeting

Leadership

Vendor management

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Job description

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) seeks a Technical Assistant III for the Apparel Design Department. The role maintains shop machinery, supports instructional activities, and trains work-study students to ensure safe operation of equipment.

Responsibilities include coordinating with ITS for the Computer Lab, overseeing budgets for equipment, and ensuring compliance with EPA/OSHA regulations and RISD policies. This on-campus, full-time position emphasizes safety and inclusion.