Apply to Join the Co-Works Team

Overview

Co-Works typically employs over thirty Grad Instructors and Undergraduate Peer Tutors per academic year, prioritizing a diverse team representing many backgrounds, identities and RISD departments.

Our Graduate Instructors and Undergrad Peer Tutors contribute a broad array of perspectives and skills, provide instruction and mentorship and support an inclusive and interdisciplinary community culture. Please see the applicant profile and job descriptions below.

  • Application Deadline: May 1 (spring semester)

    • Applications received by the deadline are considered for next fall semester.

    • Applications received after the deadline may be considered if openings remain.

    • Interviews are scheduled at the end of spring semester.

    • We accept applications at any time but generally review them in spring.

    • Applications are kept on file in case a position opens during the academic year.

  • What is Co-Works looking for?

    Our top priority is that a candidate is committed to fostering community and making it accessible and welcoming to people of all identities and disciplines.

    Different than a shop monitor role, being on the Co-Works team requires that you:

    • Provide exceptional peer instruction and mentorship

    • Take responsibility for inclusivity and community stewardship

    • Learn new skills outside of your discipline

    • Support Co-Works courses, sponsored studios and research

    • Help to develop co-curricular programs and resources

    • Have excellent listening, communication and interpersonal skills

    • Take initiative and be engaged with your peers

    Do I need to have specific technical skills?

    Experience in any of the following technical areas is helpful. However, skill in more than one area is not required as long as a candidate is prepared to learn others.

    • 3D modeling (Rhino, SolidWorks, AutoCAD)

    • Adobe Suite (particularly Illustrator)

    • Physical computing and programming languages

    • 3D printing, Laser cutting, CNC processes

    • Vacuum forming, mould making/casting

    • Machine sewing and apparel construction

    • Machine embroidery and knitting

    • Digital printing and UV printing

    • Virtual and augmented reality technologies

    • Traditional fine arts, woodworking and craft techniques

  • Primary responsibilities include giving instruction on equipment and helping others to develop projects, learn new making skills and software proficiencies, troubleshoot technical challenges and experiment with combining techniques and technologies.

    Other duties include supervising use of Co-Works equipment, ensuring proper usage and adherence to safety protocols, supporting Co-Works classes and sponsored studios, serving as a cross-departmental liaison, general maintenance and clean-up, and assisting the Director and Lab Manager as needed.

    Undergraduate roles are hourly and qualify for work-study. Pay is set at the highest rate that RISD permits for undergraduate employment. See the student wage scale posted on the Student Employment Office page for the most current information.

  • In addition to what is required of Peer Tutors, Graduate Instructors have a pedagogical and research responsibility. Graduate Instructors have the opportunity to create and instruct training sessions and courses, innovate equipment applications and crossovers and develop new resources and workflows for Co-Works.

    Graduate Instructors may propose teaching and research projects that are designed in response to current needs and their strengths. Successful projects have led to additional academic and professional opportunities.

    Graduate roles are structured as graduate assistantships and paid as stipends based on time commitment and project scope each semester.

    1. Read the candidate profile and job descriptions above carefully.

    2. Fill out the online application form.

    3. Have a resume PDF ready to upload if you have one (not required).