About Maine College of Art & Design
Maine College of Art & Design is an independent college of art and design located in the center of the thriving arts district of Portland, Maine. Established in 1882, the College currently enrolls approximately 450 students, the majority of whom are in the undergraduate program. About 1,000 students take classes through MECA&D’s Continuing Studies Program annually.
MECA&D is characterized by its intimate learning community, its interdisciplinary nature, and the breadth of its programs. It confers the degrees of Bachelor of Fine Arts in eight majors, a Master of Fine Arts in Studio Art, a Master of Arts in Teaching, and the Salt Graduate Certificate in Documentary Studies. Maine College of Art & Design is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Position Overview
The Printmaking Studio Technician & Artist-in-Residence plays a vital role in the Printmaking Department by supporting the maintenance and safe operation of the printmaking facilities and equipment while also contributing to the creative energy of the MECA&D community through an active studio practice.
This hybrid role supports both the technical and artistic aspects of the department. The Studio Technician maintains a wide range of traditional and contemporary printmaking processes and equipment and supports students and faculty in printmaking courses. As an Artist-in-Residence, the individual selected will engage with the MECA&D community through studio work, mentorship, and public-facing opportunities, such as studio visits or a speaking engagement.
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise and maintain all equipment and spaces in the printmaking studios.
- Provide technical training and in-class assistance to faculty and students.
- Manage and mentor student employees within the studio.
- Maintain an accurate inventory of supplies and coordinate purchasing.
- Collaborate with the Department Chair on tracking the departmental budget.
- Facilitate the sale of materials to students as needed.
- Serve as the departmental liaison for environmental health and safety compliance, adhering to OSHA, EPA, and institutional standards.
- Assist visiting artists with technical needs or collaborative projects when appropriate.
What We’re Looking For
- A Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
- Expertise in traditional and contemporary printmaking processes (e.g., lithography, etching, relief, screenprinting, monoprinting, letterpress).
- Experience operating, maintaining, and repairing print shop equipment.
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to collaborate with and support a diverse community of students and faculty.
- Familiarity with digital fabrication tools (e.g., Risograph, laser cutting, 3D printing, CNC routing) is preferred.
- Experience in an academic or educational studio environment is a plus.
What We Offer
Join a collaborative and creative environment where your technical expertise and artistic practice contribute to the development of emerging artists and designers.
This part-time, 25-hours-per-week, 48-week-per-year position offers the opportunity to maintain an active studio practice with 24/7 studio access and contribute to a vibrant arts community in Portland, Maine—known for its thriving cultural scene and quality of life.
Compensation: $19.10 per hour.
Ready to Apply?
We’d love to hear from you! Please submit your application as a single PDF to employment@meca.edu. Your PDF must include:
- A cover letter that describes how your experience, accomplishments, and qualifications intersect with the position
- A resumé or curriculum vitae
- A list of four professional references with contact information (one must be a current or former supervisor or instructor)
Maine College of Art & Design is committed to full inclusion of all qualified individuals. If reasonable accommodation is needed during any part of the application or interview process, or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact Human Resources at hr@meca.edu.
MECA&D complies with all applicable federal and state laws and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, veteran or military status, or any other protected status. To learn more about Maine College of Art & Design, please visit www.meca.edu.