General Art Facilities Assistant at Whitman College

Whitman College; Walla Walla (WA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Whitman College seeks a General Art Facilities Assistant to support studio spaces, lighting, and gallery operations. You will assist with show installations and de-installations, and help maintain safety information and equipment.

This role offers hands-on learning in a creative academic setting with flexible hours (3–6 per week) and close collaboration with the FCVA Studio and Safety Technician. Ideal candidates are reliable, willing to perform manual tasks, and eager to develop practical

Qualifications

• Willingness to learn new making skills and operate shop tools.
• Ability to learn wood/metal shop equipment and CNC/laser devices.
• Motivation to jump in, be hands-on, and stay motivated.

Responsibilities

• Monitor display space organization and lighting.
• Assist with artwork installation and de-installations.
• Assist with repairing studio equipment.
• Update safety information and signage.

Skills

Willingness to perform manual labor

Attention to detail

Problem solving ability

Hands-on creativity

Tools

Wood & metal shop equipment

CNC router

Vinyl cutter

Laser engraver

Digital lab equipment

Job description

JOB TITLE: General Art Facilities Assistant
PAY:$17.13 - $17.13/hour
START DATE: As soon as hired

JOB PURPOSE

Successful student assistant hires will work under the direction of the FCVA Studio and Safety Technician. Student assistants will be tasked with regular duties such as monitoring display space organization and lighting, assisting with show installation and de-installations, and helping faculty to keep studio spaces tidy. Additionally, they will assist the full-time Studio and Safety Technician with various specialized tasks often involving making and repairing studio equipment, reorganizing studio spaces, and updating safety information. This position is for 3-6 hours/week.

The role we have available this semester will predominately be assisting with safety related paperwork organization, signage printing, and labeling chemicals.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Clean and organize studio spaces.
• Assist with repairing studio equipment.
• Assist with updating safety information.
• Monitor gallery and display area organization and lighting.
• Assist with artwork installation and de-installations.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Individuals must be able to explain and demonstrate that they possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Willingness to perform manual labor
• Attention to detail, and ability to follow directions
• Ability to problem solve, and think or work independently and occasionally without supervision
• Desire to create, make, build, and work with your hands

EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS TO BE DERIVED BY STUDENTS IN THIS JOB

This position offers valuable hands on experience that enhances both technical and interpersonal skills, making it an excellent opportunity for students pursuing many careers. Through art studio repair and maintenance, students will gain practical knowledge of hand and power tools, developing both technical proficiency and attention to detail. Managing art studio safety will improve critical thinking, problem-solving, and organizational skills, ensuring a safe and functional environment for all studio users. Additionally, the opportunity to assist with gallery installations will enhance time management, multi-tasking, and communication abilities, as students collaborate with peers and faculty in a creative and professional setting. Overall, this role provides a unique blend of technical expertise and creative collaboration that aligns with future careers in the arts, design, management and many more.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A working knowledge of basic building skills using hand and power tools is desirable, but not necessary. Successful candidates will be highly motivated to learn new making skills. In this position you will have the opportunity to learn to use much of the wood and metal shop equipment, CNC router, vinyl cutter, laser engraver, and digital lab equipment. Much of what you may gain from this position is up to you, how motivated you are and how willing you are to jump in and get your hands dirty.

HOURS

Appointment of this position typically ends at the end of the spring semester, dependent on funding and available hours. Scheduling will be flexible during breaks and vigorous academic periods. Students who are able to prioritize their schedules, including their academic break schedules, will be given priority when scheduling positions and hours. Four hours are available each week with the possibility of more during academic breaks. Hours must be Monday through Friday between 8am and 4pm.

Depending on performance the position can be carried over into the next academic year.

SUPERVISOR NAME: Ben Selby, Studio and Safety Technician
SUPERVISOR EMAIL: [e-mail]
DATE POSTED: September 8, 2026