Technical Instructor in Art & Design - Graduate Diploma

The Royal College of Art is the world’s leading institution for postgraduate art and design education. With a focus on fostering innovation, creativity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, the RCA attracts the most talented individuals in the arts and design fields. The Graduate Diploma programme offers students a unique opportunity to explore and develop their creative practice across a range of media and disciplines.  The Graduate Diploma Making  facilities include equipment for working with wood, metal, plastics and fabric. The team also provides training and support in a variety of software such as Illustrator, Photoshop and Premiere.  We expect significant knowledge in a variety of these areas and ideally a good working knowledge across all.

Main Purpose of the Role:

The Technical Instructor will support the Lead Technical Instructor as part of the team responsible for the daily operation of the Making Space—the dedicated technical facility for the Graduate Diploma programme. This hands-on role offers technical support and instructional guidance across a broad range of physical and digital processes, helping students integrate diverse methods into their creative projects. You will contribute to the effective running of the Making Space, ensuring the availability of resources and workspaces that support academic delivery, student learning, and Research Knowledge Exchange and Innovation (RKEI) activities.

Key Responsibilities:

Student Support and Instruction:

• Provide technical advice, support, and demonstrations on a wide range of physical and digital processes relevant to art and design practices within the Making Space.
• Assist students in developing technical skills at introductory to intermediate levels, empowering them to realise their creative projects using various fabrication techniques.
• Offer problem-solving support to students and staff, helping to develop integrated technical solutions.
• Promote a learning environment based on guided autonomy, encouraging students to develop their own technical skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Create and maintain learning resources that support student engagement with technical processes.

Workshop Operations and Maintenance:

• Ensure the effective operation and maintenance of tools and equipment within the Making Space.
• Monitor student activity to uphold high standards of health and safety and housekeeping at all times.
• Manage daily digital booking systems to ensure fair access to technical support and facilities for all students.
• Support the procurement, research, and implementation of new equipment and services, keeping up with emerging technologies and industry trends.
• Assist the Lead Technical Instructor in updating risk assessments and COSHH reports, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Key Requirements:

• A relevant degree or equivalent professional qualification in Art and Design or a related field.
• Strong practical experience in art and design technical support, including both physical and digital fabrication techniques.
• A solid understanding of health and safety regulations, risk assessments, and COSHH guidelines.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to balance multiple queries and projects simultaneously.
• A proactive and adaptable approach to teaching and supporting student development.

Why Join The Royal College of Art?

As a Technical Instructor at RCA, you will work in a dynamic, world-class environment at the heart of cutting-edge art and design education. You’ll have the opportunity to work with inspiring students and contribute to a diverse range of creative practices. The role offers plenty of opportunities for professional growth, collaboration, and a chance to be part of a vibrant, forward-thinking institution.

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