Technical Assistant III, Studio for Research in Sound and Technology

The Technical Assistant III oversees technical operations, provides technical support, and maintains the facilities and equipment of the RISD Studio for Research in Sound and Technology (SRST) for its educational programs, research activities, and events. Proactively engages with faculty to technically support instructional design and delivery, assists researchers with technical aspects of projects, provides guidance to students, and handles logistics of presentations and performances. Advises and trains Studio users on safe, efficient, and effective use of facilities and equipment, and recommends and implements related policies and procedures. Manages bookings and equipment checkout. Supervises, trains, and coordinates schedules for student workers. Researches and evaluates current and emerging technologies toward improvement and increased capacity of the Studio.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES

• Work closely with faculty, staff, students, and affiliated/visiting researchers based in the Studio for Research in Sound and Technology (SRST). Gather information on and obtain an understanding of SRST educational programs and research activities in order to assist, advise, and provide guidance on technical and conceptual aspects, as well as prepare equipment, supplies, and other resources to support the SRST mission. Provide open technical support hours for studio users. Respond to help requests.

• Maintain functionality of SRST equipment and systems, including multichannel loudspeakers arrays (High Order Ambisonics, Wave Field Synthesis), audio networking (AVB, Dante), modular synthesizers (analog and digital), computers and I/O devices, outboard gear, and additional multimedia production software and hardware. Conduct regular system tests and periodic equipment calibration. Proactively identify and perform preventative maintenance, minor repairs, and upgrades. Coordinate with other College offices/departments as necessary. Keep accurate and detailed records for all repairs and maintenance made. Arrange with outside vendors/contractors for repairs and maintenance that cannot be done in house. Track and maintain software licenses.

• Examine studios to ensure that space, equipment, and storage is well kept, in a clean and orderly manner. Proactively engage with faculty of hosted courses to ensure readiness for class sessions and verify that equipment, systems, and facilities are operational and functioning to required standards. Make adjustments, repairs, and modifications as needed. Address urgent situations that compromise use or safety. Complete physical setups as required, including, but not limited to, lifting, moving, and arranging a variety of equipment and furniture which may weigh up to 50 lbs.

• Hire, supervise, coordinate, and schedule student employees with technical positions (studio monitors and graduate assistantships). Train in the proper operation, handling, and care of equipment to assure quality and quantity of work with emphasis on safety. Cultivate a sense of responsibility and community.

• Identify, research, evaluate, and present recommendations on new, existing, and alternative technology, equipment, hardware, and software including availability, features, upgrades, specifications, and prices. Engage with vendors as directed. Order supplies and maintain proper inventory levels. Monitor expenditures in consultation with the Faculty Lead. Integrate newly acquired technology. Design and/or construct specialized equipment, including fabrication for special projects as requested.

• Provide recommendations and implement, as approved, policies and procedures to help improve and ensure efficient and safe operations. Maintain internal web pages and regularly update a studio operating manual with studio use guidelines and relevant learning resources for installed equipment. Coordinate card access for studio users and studio scheduling, including an online system for studio bookings. Ensure optimal functioning of equipment inventory and checkout.

• Support the technical logistics of events, including workshops, lectures, performances, exhibitions, symposia, and conferences. Set up, operate, and strike in-house or portable sound systems and mixing consoles, video projection, lighting systems, and other AV equipment as required. Oversee recording of events. Drive vehicles when necessary for the transport of equipment. Give demonstrations and tours for internal and external audiences, as requested.

• Train and assist studio users in safe and proper use of equipment. Maintain compliance with all safety regulations, including for sound level exposures and integrity of speaker rigging. Proactively engage with College offices/departments to suggest, develop, promote, and implement best safety practices and standards.

• Engage in training to remain curren