Photo and Stage Specialist — part-time

Art Center College of Design is searching for an experienced Photo and Stage Specialist I — part-time to join our team. The salary range for this position: $25.00 - 30.00

Final salary is based on education, experience, skills relevant to the role, and internal equity.

About Art Center:
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education and has had an international reputation for its rigorous, transdisciplinary curriculum, faculty of professionals, strong ties to industry, and commitment to socially responsible design. Art Center is a private nonprofit fully accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Every position at Art Center plays an important part in carrying out the cultural values, goals, strategic vision, and mission of the College. This includes upholding and cultivating an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Reporting to the Manager, Photo Labs, the Photo and Stage Specialist works across both traditional and digital photo technologies and provides supervision of Photo Stages. This position uses imaging software (Photoshop, Lightroom) and utilizes calibration equipment and software for the maintenance of all digital systems (input, output, and monitors). Responsibilities include the maintenance, troubleshooting, and potential repair of all electro and photomechanical systems (Chromira, Hostert, Bessler, Devere, Kreonite, Imocon, and Mole) and ensuring on‑stage safety through keen supervision.

This is an on‑site part‑time position, 15–18 hours per week depending on department needs, including Saturdays. Primarily during the fall term through the beginning of the summer term, based on departmental needs.

• Ensure a consistent quality of processing and digital imaging equipment
• Maintain photo and related equipment, including troubleshooting and repair of all electro and photomechanical systems
• Maintain a productive and safe learning environment for students

• Oversee and manage the Stage area with minimal oversight after school hours
• Open and close the Photo Stage on Saturdays during the term to facilitate student work on projects and assignments
• Maintain regular order and ensure compliance with safety protocols
• Foster an optimum learning atmosphere by supporting and guiding students in their projects
• Address any challenges that arise during class sessions, ensuring a positive and productive experience for all participants

• Maintain memberships and active involvement in applicable professional organizations
• Other duties as assigned

• AA certificate or a minimum of two years of equivalent experience in photography, photo, lab, or electromechanical repair
• Must have extensive understanding of both traditional and digital photo technologies and prior experience with stage, lighting, and grip equipment
• Digital—experience using imaging software; familiarity with calibration equipment and software for maintenance of digital systems
• Photo Stage 1—familiarity with tungsten and strobe lighting, grip equipment, and its maintenance
• Strong communication skills are essential to interact effectively with and support all variety of clients including students, faculty, and staff
• Knowledge and experience in traditional B/W and Color photographic practices, i.e. papers and chemicals and their characteristics, mixing, storing, and the strategic deployment of chemistry in a lab facility
• Ability to enforce and implement policies and procedures
• Ability to work well in an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment within Art Center’s diverse communities. A commitment to and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships within Art Center’s diverse communities.
• Ability to handle all information with tact and discretion and recognize the confidential nature of Art Center business

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Prior experience in higher education
• Knowledge of art and design education