How to apply 

The woodshop assistant will report to Ken Kalchik, woodshop manager. Along with your resume, please submit a cover letter that outlines your specific interest in the position and your related skills/experiences. Your cover letter will be used to evaluate your writing ability. 

Submit your application materials by uploading a single PDF file of your cover letter followed by your resume to the Fall 26 application folder here. Name your file "Lastname_application.pdf

The application deadline is September 11, 2026. 

If you have any questions about this position, email Ken Kalchik at kalchik@umich.edu.

Job Summary 

As the woodshop assistant, you will assist the wood shop manager and the woodshop studio technician in providing lab/machine and shop/makerspace services to the users of the A&A Shop from the Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Design and the Stamps School of Art and Design. 

Responsibilities 

• Under the direction of studio coordinators, provide support to all users of the shop in the following areas:

• Safety - Ensure the safe use of the studio by enforcing safety rules regarding dress, personal protective equipment, and equipment-specific safe operation practices.

• Instruction - Provide users of the shop with support in desired design outcomes through training, equipment selection, and best practices.

• Physical Aid -  Physically assist shop users with their work when required based on “The Buddy System” concepts.

• Studio Maintenance - Assist with materials handling, equipment maintenance and repair, and cleaning activities in the shop.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed and are not an exhaustive list of all associated responsibilities.

Note: Some flexibility of scheduled work hours may be required, including evenings or weekends on a prior scheduled basis.  

Additional Information 

• Appointment Period: September 2026 - May 2027 

• Estimated Effort: Up to 12 hours a week 

• Compensation: $17.50/hr 

Decision-Making Process 

• Applications will be reviewed and selected candidates will be contacted for an interview.

• Candidates will be interviewed in person in The A&A Shop.

• Interviews will continue until a total of three positions are filled.

Selection Process 

Every effort will be made to have a hiring decision within two weeks of the application deadline. 

Required Qualifications

• Applicants must have a work study award as part of their financial aid package.

• Applicants must be enrolled in either Stamps School (Art) or Taubman College (Architecture)

• Previous experience in a shop environment is desired, but not required. Successful applicants will be trained.