Photo / Darkroom Student Assistant at Whitman College

Whitman College; Walla Walla (WA); Hybrid; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Whitman College seeks a Photo / Darkroom Student Assistant for Fall 2026 with potential Spring 2027, work-study eligible. Start date is as soon as hired. The role involves darkroom management, safety monitoring, equipment testing, and assisting with photo printing and class materials under FCVA supervision.

Hours are approximately 2 hours per week, with priority given to work-study students and possible continuation based on hours and performance.

Qualifications

• Prior darkroom experience and a working knowledge of basic photographic processes, tools, and equipment.
• Successful candidates will be highly motivated to help maintain the darkroom, photography equipment and related studio spaces.
• Experience with digital photo printing is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Monitor the darkroom and digital lab for safety issues.
• Regular testing and maintenance of darkroom and photo equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the darkroom.
• Monitor darkroom and photography inventories.
• Photo printing, class material preparation, and special project assistance.

Skills

Darkroom experience

Self-directed work

Attention to detail

Job description

JOB TITLE: Photo / Darkroom Student Assistant - Work Study
PAY: $17.13/hr
START DATE: As soon as hired
END DATE: 12/11/26
HOURS: Approx 2hrs Per Week

JOB PURPOSE:

Fouts Center for Visual Arts is accepting applications for a Photo / Darkroom Student Assistant for Fall 2026, with the possibility of Spring 2027 depending on the availability of hours and performance. Work-Study eligible students will be given priority. Successful student hires will work under the direction of the FCVA Studio and Safety Technician and Photography Faculty.

Student techs will spend much of their time helping manage the darkroom, a small studio located in a separate building from the main art building. Regular duties include monitoring for safety issues, testing and maintaining equipment, keeping the darkroom clean and organized, monitoring inventories, and preparing class materials. In the art building, they may also assist with photo printing in the digital lab, special projects, and other tasks for staff and faculty.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Monitoring the darkroom and digital lab for safety issues
• Regular testing and maintenance of darkroom and photo equipment
• Maintaining cleanliness and organization of the darkroom
• Monitoring darkroom and photography inventories
• Photo printing, class material preparation, and special project assistance

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Individuals must be able to explain and demonstrate that they possess the knowledge, skills and abilities to safely perform the essential functions of the job.

• Prior darkroom experience and knowledge of basic darkroom processes
• Being comfortable with self-directed work and contributing ideas
• Attention to detail, and ability to follow directions

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 darkroom upkeep and equipment care, students will strengthen their knowledge of photographic processes while developing technical proficiency and attention to detail. Supporting photo printing in the digital lab and preparing class materials will build practical experience across analog and digital workflows. Managing studio safety will improve critical thinking, problem-solving, and organizational skills, ensuring a safe and functional environment for all studio users. 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:

• Prior darkroom experience and a working knowledge of basic photographic processes, tools, and equipment are required.
• Successful candidates will be highly motivated to help maintain the darkroom, photography equipment, and related studio spaces.
• Experience with digital photo printing is desirable.

HOURS:

2hr are available each week.