Photo Lab Student Assistant

Chapman University, located in Orange, California, is a prestigious private institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and fostering a dynamic learning environment. The university serves a diverse student body, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. One of its vibrant departments is the Art Department, which supports creative and technical education in the visual arts, including photography. This department is dedicated to providing students with hands-on experience, promoting artistic expression, and preparing them for professional careers in creative industries.

The Photo Lab Student Assistant position at Chapman University is an exciting opportunity for both undergraduate and graduate students who are passionate about photography and eager to develop their skills in a practical setting. This role is part-time with an anticipated pay range of $16.90 to $17.50 per hour and is designed to accommodate students' academic schedules, offering up to 10 hours of work per week. The position is based on the Orange campus and is supervised by the Photography Program Lead and the Art Department Manager, providing direct mentorship from experienced professionals.

As a Photo Lab Student Assistant, you will play a crucial role in supporting the daily operations of the university's Photography Studio. Your responsibilities will include assisting with the management of the photo lab, helping students and faculty with their photographic needs, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace. A significant part of your duties involves handling chemical mixing and proper disposal, which is essential for the safe and efficient operation of the darkroom facilities. This hands-on experience in black and white darkroom production, including film development and enlargement printing, will enhance your technical expertise and understanding of photographic processes.

Working in this role requires a balance of independence and teamwork, as you will sometimes operate without direct supervision while still being accountable for adhering to studio policies and safety protocols. The Photo Lab Student Assistant must be professional, dependable, and organized, with the ability to multitask effectively. Excellent communication skills are vital since you will be interacting regularly with students, faculty members, and department staff, ensuring that everyone adheres to the studio guidelines and that any facility issues are promptly reported.

The university values candidates who have previous exposure to photography, particularly those who have taken a photo class or have experience working in photography studio environments. This background will help you support your peers more effectively and contribute to a productive and educational lab atmosphere. The position is flexible with working hours that may include evenings and weekends, making it an ideal job for students seeking to align their work experience with their academic commitments.

In addition to gaining practical lab experience, you will be part of a creative community within the Art Department, contributing to the success and smooth operation of the photo studio. This role offers an excellent pathway to deepen your knowledge of photographic techniques, equipment handling, and studio management, all while earning competitive pay and balancing your studies. It is a valuable opportunity to build your resume and develop professional skills that are essential for future careers in photography, art, or related fields.

Chapman University is committed to providing a supportive work environment where students can thrive and make meaningful contributions to the campus community. Joining the Art Department as a Photo Lab Student Assistant means being part of a nurturing academic setting where your contributions help maintain high standards of creative and technical education.