Job description

JOB TITLE: Systems Administrator
JOB POSTED: November 8, 2024
DEPARTMENT: Visible Futures Lab (VFL)
REPORTS TO: Director, Visible Futures Lab
SCHEDULE: Mon - Fri, 10:00 - 6:00 PM. This position is in-person and onsite only.
COMPENSATION: $60,000/year, Non-Exempt, Full-Time

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Director - Visible Futures Lab (VFL), the Systems Administrator will play a key role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and seamless operation of the facility. This position provides comprehensive technical support, customer service, and administrative support to students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The Systems Administrator will be based full-time in a hands-on, in-person, and collaborative environment, where they will engage with a wide array of tools and resources.

The VFL is dedicated to providing SVA MFA students with the tools and support necessary to fabricate work across a broad range of methods and materials. Consisting of a makerspace, workshop and digital fabrication facilities, the VFL's tool inventory ranges from traditional hand tools and workshop machinery to advanced 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers, and 2D printers for a variety of substrates and applications. The VFL supports artists and designers in varied areas of professional study to explore the boundaries of contemporary art & design craft work that advances real change. More information can be found here: www.vfl.sva.edu/.


DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Administrative Duties:
Oversee daily operations of the VFL, including opening and closing the facility during regular business hours, and occasionally for evening or weekend shifts as needed.
Ensure a safe environment by keeping the facility and workspaces clean, and organized, and overseeing the proper use of equipment.
Assist with the execution of special events, projects, presentations, and workshops held in the VFL, supporting logistics and setup.
Update the VFL website and social media accounts, keeping the SVA community informed about VFL events, news, and available resources.
Manage the VFL calendar system, including scheduling appointments and managing reservations.

Technical Duties :
Perform routine maintenance of VFL computers, websites, and IT systems.
Write and debug code that performs tasks related to data storage, access authentication, and email integration.
Coordinate with SVA’s IT department and vendors to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues as they arise.
Oversee and maintain audio-visual (A/V) equipment, ensuring all devices are operational and up-to-date, and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Providing training and guidance to students, faculty, and staff on VFL policies, safety protocols, and proper equipment usage, including introductory software and hardware training.
Operate and maintain an array of shop tools, including CNC (Computer Numerical Control) devices, 3D printers, 3D scanners, VR equipment, laser cutters, vinyl printer/cutters, sewing and embroidery machines, and traditional workshop tools (table saw, band saw, lathe, acrylic bender, soldering tools, etc.)
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION DUTIES:
None

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in areas such as Art, Design, technology-based fields, or a related discipline.
Two years of professional experience in a studio environment that serves students or designers.
Experience working with programming languages including but not limited to JavaScript, HTML, Python, and CSS.
Experience with configuring local networks and managing databases.
Proficiency with Mac and PC systems.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Demonstrated experience with 3D modeling, computer animation, and digital rendering
Experience with 2D & 3D CAD and CAM software preferred
Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, Photoshop, etc.
Demonstrated experience with shop tools including CNC (Computer Numerical Control) devices, 3D printers, 3D scanners, VR equipment, laser cutters, vinyl printer/cutters, sewing and embroidery machines, table saw, band saw, lathe, acrylic bender, soldering tools, etc.
Experience teaching or mentoring in a studio environment that serves students or designers, and an ability to communicate technical concepts effectively

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of assigned practices, and procedures.
Knowledge of safety practices, and procedures.
Commitment to providing exceptional customer service to students, faculty, and staff.
Clear and professional verbal, written, and email communication skills; able to communicate effectively across diverse personalities.
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Ability to operate and maintain an array of shop tools.
Ability to learn new technology and workflows in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to troubleshoot AV equipment and identify solutions to technical issues.
Ability to identify and mitigate safety risks.
Ability to train others.
Ability to develop and maintain knowledge in assigned specialized areas.
Ability to resolve problems or situations requiring the exercise of good judgment.
Ability to interact with all levels of administrative staff, faculty, students, visitors, and prospective students.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OR WORKING CONDITIONS:
The normal schedule is Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, with evening or weekend hours as needed.
This is a fully onsite position, requiring in-person attendance at our designated work location. Remote work is not permitted for this role.
Visible Futures Lab operational hours:
Monday to Thursday, 10 am - 10 pm
Friday, 10 am - 6 pm
Saturday to Sunday, 12:00 - 8:00 pm
Ability to perform physical tasks, such as standing for long periods of time, walking, lifting, and carrying items up to 20 lbs.
Exposure to large equipment, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
To be considered for this position, candidates must submit the following:
Resume
Cover Letter
(Optional) A portfolio demonstrating an ability to create working, complex, and diversified design projects.
WORKING AT SVA

School of Visual Arts has been a leader in the education of artists, designers, and creative professionals for more than seven decades. With a faculty of distinguished working professionals, a dynamic curriculum, and an emphasis on critical thinking, SVA is a catalyst for innovation and social responsibility. Comprising over 7,000 students at its Manhattan campus and over 41,000 alumni from 128 countries, SVA also represents one of the most influential artistic communities in the world. For more information about the College's 31 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and Continuing Education division, visit sva.edu.

Learn more about working at SVA.

The School of Visual Arts is an equal-opportunity employer. Diversity and inclusion is a core principle of the College. SVA enjoys a community that represents a significant number of historically underrepresented communities, ethnic and religious backgrounds, gender identities, diverse abilities, and foreign countries, and all are encouraged to apply.