About Western

Since 1878, Western University has been committed to serving our communities through the pursuit of academic excellence and by providing students, faculty, and community members with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social, and cultural growth. We seek excellent students, faculty, and staff to join us in what has become known as the "Western Experience" - an opportunity to contribute to a better world through the development of new knowledge, new abilities, new connections, and new ways to make a difference.

About Us

For more information about the Department of Visual Arts, please visit our website www.uwo.ca/visarts

Responsibilities

The Artlab Preparator/Photo Technician has two areas of responsibility. First, working under the direction of the ArtLab Manager in the ArtLab and Cohen Commons Gallery on the preparation, installation, photographing, archiving and striking of exhibitions throughout the Fall, Winter and Summer terms of the academic year. The role is also responsible for maintaining the darkroom studio and associated maintenance, safety and technical assistance.

Planning and strategizing

• consulting with artists to address specific needs of exhibit
• consults with Faculty, students and staff to ensure displays meet standard of practice
• during special exhibits or events taking place in the artLab is consulted by artists for rearrangement as needed, designing and building new display structures when needed
• identify and source resources and materials required for installations

Physical Space Preparation

• moving displays, movable walls, vitrines, plinths, furniture
• repairing walls and painting walls
• ensuring proper media set up (eg. installations, audio and moving image, digital media)
• ensuring proper lighting conditions for art
• maintaining, repairing and/or adjusting exhibition elements through duration of exhibition if needed
• maintaining gallery supplies, tools, equipment, ensuring storage space is organized and equipment is accounted for
• installing and de-installing exhibition graphics, signage, vinyl (use of vinyl plotter), and labels
• framing and matting, installing (changing out) lightboxes
• use of scissor lift (Fall Protection, Elevated Platform and Ladder Safety Training)
• maintaining the space (and supports) of the artLAB Gallery and Cohen Commons

Safety & Accessibility

• ensures safety of gallery installations, with all items securely fastened, ensuring no safety hazards are present
• using hand tools, power tools
• climbs ladders and works at heights with proper safety precautions, using a lift device as necessary
• Working with Manager ensures accessibility standards are met

Exhibition documentation

• takes photographs of exhibits for display, advertisements & archiving
• using Adobe Creative Suite and Lightroom to process and colour correct images
• selects photographs in consultation with gallery manager for social media
• supports events in Artlab by arranging chairs, photographing for archive, setting up PA system and stage

Workshops

• Matting/mounting and framing workshops for students
• Lighting demonstration (how to set up and choose lighting kits)
• Photo documentation demonstration
• Professional art installations and gallery setups that meet world-class artist standards
• Well supported Faculty and student artist
• Organized and aesthetic set ups for galleries
• Safe and welcoming gallery environments
• High quality advertisements and gallery archives

Qualifications

Education:

• Undergraduate university degree in visual arts required
• Specialization or coursework in fine arts preferred
• Training on working at heights and training with a lift

Experience:

• 2 years' work experience providing technical assistance in an art gallery, and photo documentation

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Expertise:

• Knowledge of photography techniques, materials and equipment
• Knowledge of chemicals used in a darkroom and proper disposal
• Knowledge of University health and safety policies and procedures
• Knowledge and certified training on scissor lift
• Proficiency in Adobe suite and Lightroom
• Knowledge of photography lighting techniques and use of light kits
• General knowledge of power and hand tools
• Knowledge of digital video and audio installation setups
• Knowledge of digital photography documentation techniques
• Ability to follow processes with high attention to detail
• Ability to communicate effectively in a group situation
• Ability to employ a systematic and efficient approach to work
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, work independently and follow through on work assignments
• Personable and courteous in working relationships with faculty, staff and students
• Demonstrated ability to understand and resolve issues
• Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the team to achieve department goals
• Ability to develop creative solutions to unconventional problems
• Ability to work flexible hours, non-standard workweek
• Drivers license required

Why Western?

Western offers a broad and exciting variety of part-time and temporary employment opportunities with ample room for job exploration and growth. Within our beautiful campus, you are part of a progressive work environment that promotes work/life balance including access to our state-of-the-art recreation centre. Apply for an opportunity to be part of the Western community and contribute to its success!

Applying at Western

To ensure that your application is given full consideration, please complete all relevant sections of the application. In addition, you can choose to supplement your application with a cover letter and current resume.

Consideration of applicants will include an assessment of previous performance, experience, and qualifications. Applicants should have oral communication skills in English.

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

Please Note:

This position is an existing vacancy. This position is fully in-person, on-site. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, we expect this position to be filled internally.