Woodworking & Furniture Design Studio Technician

Location: Portland, Maine About Maine College of Art & Design Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) seeks a skilled, safety-focused, and student-centered Woodworking & Furniture Design Studio Technician to support its Woodworking & Furniture Design program within Academic Affairs. Located in the heart of Portland’s vibrant Arts District, MECA&D is a nationally recognized college of art and design that fosters a diverse, inclusive, and creative learning community. Studio-based learning is central to the College’s academic mission, and this role plays a critical part in maintaining safe, functional, and welcoming studio environments that support hands-on teaching, learning, and creative practice. Position Summary Reporting to the Department Chair, the Woodworking & Furniture Design Studio Technician is responsible for maintaining studio facilities, tools, and equipment, and for supporting students’ technical and safety needs. This position ensures the safe, organized, and effective operation of the woodworking and furniture design studios and provides direct support to students and faculty during scheduled and open studio hours. The Studio Technician works collaboratively with faculty, staff, and student employees to support instructional activities, studio improvements, and departmental initiatives. The role requires a strong commitment to safety, clear communication, and inclusive instructional support in a hands-on, equipment-intensive environment. Key Responsibilities Studio Operations and Safety Maintain woodworking and furniture design studios, tools, and equipment to ensure safe, clean, organized, and fully functional learning environments. Support safe and healthy studio operations by assisting students with proper equipment use and adherence to health and safety protocols. Monitor studio usage during scheduled and open studio hours to support students and faculty and identify unsafe conditions or behaviors. Communicate equipment issues, safety concerns, and maintenance needs promptly and clearly to faculty and supervisors. Perform routine cleaning, basic maintenance, troubleshooting, and coordination of equipment repairs as needed. Instructional and Faculty Support Provide clear, respectful technical guidance to students with varying levels of experience in woodworking and furniture design processes. Assist faculty with studio-related projects, setup, instructional needs, and space improvements as directed. Collaborate with other academic programs and departments to support shared instructional or studio initiatives. Contribute to special projects, which may include researching new equipment, constructing worktables, improving workflows, organizing field trips, or implementing new studio processes. Administrative and Student Employee Support Manage studio supply inventory, including ordering, receiving, replenishment, and recordkeeping. Supervise and support part-time student employees or work-study students in coordination with the Program Chair. Maintain accurate documentation related to inventory, incidents, maintenance needs, and safety concerns. What We’re Looking For Qualifications / Experience / Skills & Abilities Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent professional experience required. Minimum of three (3) years of relevant experience in woodworking and/or furniture design, including demonstrated knowledge of industry best practices and safe shop operations. Demonstrated experience working with woodworking tools, machinery, and shop processes, including the implementation and enforcement of safety protocols. Experience supporting students, apprentices, or emerging makers in an educational, training, or mentorship setting preferred. Experience maintaining studio or shop equipment, including routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and coordination of repairs. Prior experience in an academic, community, or shared studio environment preferred. Familiarity with Google Workspace tools preferred. Strong commitment to studio safety, risk mitigation, and compliance with institutional policies and procedures. Ability to provide clear, inclusive, and respectful technical guidance and instruction. Strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with faculty, staff, and students. Demonstrated commitment to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful learning environment. Ability to perform the essential physical and operational functions of the role, including standing and moving throughout the studio for extended periods; operating woodworking machinery and tools; performing routine cleaning and minor repairs; supervising student employees; lifting materials or equipment (generally up to 25 pounds); bending, reaching, and navigating shared studio and storage spaces; and communicating effectively in person and electronically, with or without reasonable accommodation. What We Offer This is a full-time, non-exempt position with a variable schedule aligned to the academic calendar: 35 hours per week during the BFA academic year (August–May) 16 hours per week during summer months Compensation ranges from $22.00 to $24.00 per hour. Start Date: July 1, 2026 MECA&D offers a comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; short- and long-term disability insurance; flexible spending accounts; a 403(b) retirement plan with employer match; generous paid time off; and other valuable benefits. Ready to Apply? To apply, please submit the following as a single PDF to employment@meca.edu: 1. A cover letter describing your interest in the position and alignment with the role; 2. A current résumé or CV; 3. A list of three professional references, including at least one former supervisor. Recognizing that no candidate will possess every qualification listed, we encourage you to apply if you align with many of the skills and experiences outlined above. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Maine College of Art & Design is committed to fully including all qualified individuals. If a reasonable accommodation is required to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other employment benefits, please contact Human Resources at hr@meca.edu. Equal Opportunity Statement Maine College of Art & Design is committed to fostering a welcoming and respectful environment where all individuals have the opportunity to succeed based on their talents, qualifications, and achievements. We uphold the principles of fairness, merit, and equal opportunity in our academic and professional community. MECA&D complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination and does not discriminate based on any legally protected status. This commitment applies to all aspects of the College’s educational programs, admissions, employment, financial aid, and other institutionally administered programs. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply, and selection decisions are made based on individual merit and institutional needs.