Job Description

Art Assistant Photography

Bucknell University is seeking a Photography Assistant in the department of Art & Art History. The Photography Assistant assists students outside of class with technical and conceptual questions or problems regarding their photographic projects. The person in this position guides students in printing photos in the 2D printing room, navigating and using the Darkroom for analog photography, and utilizing the lighting studio. The Photography Assistant orders supplies for student use and keeps all photographic studios (2D Print Room, Darkroom, & Lighting Studio) well-stocked. As a role model in the classroom, the Art Assistant must exhibit a high level of professionalism, be punctual, and respond promptly to emails and other inquiries. This one-year position will begin mid-August and continue through mid-May. There is a possibility of renewal for a second year (contingent upon favorable evaluations). This is a 25-hour per week, limited benefits eligible position. This position is an excellent stepping-stone for a student who has recently completed their undergraduate studies or is about to graduate, and who is interested in pursuing an MFA in studio art but prefers a few additional years to develop a stronger portfolio and gain experience. The Art Assistant hired for this position will have 24/7 access to the photo facilities to work on their own projects when not involved in Art Assistant duties.

Job Duties:

What You Will Do:

• Ensures the maintenance and safe student use of enlargers, silver and non-silver photographic chemicals, professional lighting equipment such as strobes and diffused soft boxes, department owned high-end Digital Single Lens Reflex cameras, extra-large inkjet printers, and medium format film cameras.
• Assists with Photography I, II, III, and Digital Photography courses, as well as Video Art and Installation courses.
• Monitors students in and out of class, to oversee both the Analog and Digital Photography Labs and the Lighting Studio.
• Ensures safe access to the equipment and chemicals located in both Analog and Digital Photography Labs by providing expert knowledge and help to the students, both in and out of class.
• Provides students with extensive instruction on how to use the laboratories' equipment and chemicals both safely and efficiently.
• Performs work in the maintenance, inventory, and procurement of equipment and supplies.

What You Will Bring:

Required:

• Bachelors degree
• Excellent communications skills

Preferred but not required:

• Bachelors degree in photography or related media
• Some work experience as lab employee or lab teaching assistant
• Experience in analog and digital processes, as well as printing, lighting and studio applications
• Experience in video production

Other knowledge and skills required:

• Knowledge of Art Lab safety protocols
• Knowledge of industry creative software applications
• Skilled in the use of lighting studio and darkroom equipment
• Demonstrated analytical and critical thinking skills
• Ability to coordinate and administer program/project activities and protocols
• Ability to manage resources, monitor activities, and assess risks and quality issues associated with program/project
• Ability to use basic databases and computer software, such as Google Suite or Microsoft Office

Physical requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 25 pounds.
• Ability to move equipment around.
• Must use proper safety equipment for head, eyes, hands, and body protection.
• Exposure to photographic chemicals, acids, etc.

Job exempt:

No

Salary range:

18.00-21.45

The offer rate will be based on a review of the candidates credentials compared to the qualifications of the position, internal equity, and our overall compensation philosophy. This role is not budgeted for visa sponsorship at this time, all candidates must be authorized to work in the US at the time of submission of the application.

Advertised: May 14, 2025

Benefits:

• Flexible scheduling options determined by role
• Medical, prescription drug, vision, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance options
• An outstanding 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan (no contribution requirement for non-exempt positions)
• Generous paid time off, including vacation and sick time, a community service day, and 19 paid holidays (including two full weeks off for Winter Break!)
• Full-time and part-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for themselves. Additionally, full-time members of the faculty and staff are eligible for tuition remission for their spouse/spousal equivalent and are eligible for various tuition programs for their children. Credit for full-time benefits eligible employment at other institutions of higher education will be applied to waiting periods.
• A comprehensive employee wellness program including program incentives
• A myriad of other benefits, including parental leave, an employee assistance program, fitness center membership, and the power of your Bucknell ID card

To learn more about Bucknells benefits, click here! (*Eligibility criteria and waiting periods may apply.)

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: Bucknell is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community. We endeavor to enhance our capacity to value and capitalize on the cultural richness that diversity brings. We encourage all individuals to apply and do not discriminate in admissions, employment, educational programs and/or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, sex/gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or family status, military or veteran status, or genetic information.

E-Verify: Bucknell University participates with the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) E-Verify program. We will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

For additional information regarding Bucknells E-Verify requirements, please contact the office of Talent, Culture & Human Resources (570) 577-1631 or email hr@bucknell.edu.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs