Studio at SAM Assistant

ABOUT THE ROLE

In support of the installation Studio at SAM, the Print Shop Assistant supports and guides visitors through self-guided and hosted printmaking activities. Utilizing pre-established materials and activities, the facilitator provides dynamic and hands-on ways for visitors of all ages to explore major themes and topics presented in the exhibition. This role will be responsible for welcoming visitors to the space and orienting them to the activity. They are also responsible for setting up and resetting the DIY printmaking activity, preparing and restocking materials, assisting in the hanging of visitor artwork, and interacting with a diverse public. Excellent customer service and problem solving skills are required. 

Applications due by: 9/8/2026

 

ABOUT SAM 

 

As SAM heads into its second century, we are boldly reimagining what we can and should be. Our goal is to be a model for the future of museums - a bold, dynamic hub of creativity, belonging, and cultural leadership, shaping the future of art and community. Embracing new ways of engaging communities and seeking innovative partnerships - all while keeping art and community at the center of what we do. This ambitious effort represents a transformative shift and radically redefining how art museums operate. This is a pivotal moment for SAM, and we are seeking great talent to join us on our journey. Working at SAM is not just a job—it's a chance to be part of a vibrant, creative community.

 

 

 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Warmly welcome visitors to the installation, orient them to the activity space, and support their artmaking
• Share information about the SAM Studio installation with visitors 
• Adapt the content of offered activities to meet the needs and interests of visitor(s)
• Interact with multiple visitors or groups of visitors simultaneously 
• Replenish and restock activity materials and supplies as needed
• Assist visitors in the hanging of their artwork in the collective installation
• Engage with and support artists and guest printmakers during select Print Shop hours
• Inform other SAM Staff of issues and needs in the space
• Perform other duties as assigned

 

 

WE ARE LOOKING FOR 

Required Qualifications 

• Facilitation or teaching experience with diverse audiences is required
• Knowledge of art materials
• Strong customer service/public engagement skills
• Adaptability and flexibility are required to deliver a high-quality educational experience for a range of visitor interests
• Excellent oral communication skills; able to communicate effectively with visitors. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish preferred
• Openness to ongoing training and feedback on the activity content and facilitation strategies from the Interpretation Department
• Ability to work independently and in a team setting; ability to self-motivate
• Ability to take initiative, prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Excellent time-management, problem-solving, and problem-prevention skills
• Ability to work accurately with close attention to detail
• Ability to work with co-workers, vendors, and volunteers professionally and tactfully
• Ability to adhere to Museum policies and to support management decisions in a positive, professional manner

 

 

FLSA Status: Temporary, Non-Exempt 

Reports To: Associate Director, Education 

Work Location: Onsite, Seattle Downtown

Work Schedule: Employment period for this role is September 24, 2026 to January 10, 2027. Required in-gallery work will occur during the run of the exhibition, with a typical schedule of Wednesday to Sundays 10:00am – 5:00pm with occasional Thursday evening hours. 

 

 

WORK CONDITIONS 

• Work areas are primarily inside, in a climate-controlled environment with light to moderate background noise
• Approximately 80% of time is spent standing or sitting in the gallery area. Balance of time (approximately 20%) is spent moving around the work area. Occasional extended periods of standing may be required when assisting at Museum events
• Clear and effective communication with volunteers, donors, members, the public, and co-workers is necessary
• The ability to move up to twenty pounds on occasion is necessary for moving equipment and supplies
• Ability to effectively and regularly operate a computer, keyboard, and other office productivity machinery, such as copy machines and printers, and ability to inspect, prepare and use paperwork, files, equipment, and supplies is necessary

 

 

BENEFITS

Temporary SAM Staff have access to an onsite fitness facility and SAM’s museum library, can access a no-cost Employee Assistance Program resource, enjoy a 20% discount at the SAM Museum Shop and a 15% discount at SAM’s MARKET cafe, receive 2 SAM guest passes per quarter worked, can access 8 Home Free Guarantee cab rides home per year, and accrue paid sick leave at a rate of .0385 per hour worked. 

 

ACCOMODATION 

 

The Seattle Art Museum will consider reasonable accommodations for all employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions/duties of this position. If you need an accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact [email protected]. For candidates, we ask that, if possible, you wait until you're invited to a screen, online technical assessment or interview before requesting an accommodation.

SAM is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming workplace for all employees and volunteers. Guided by our mission to connect art to life and engage diverse communities, we strive to create a sense of belonging for all of the communities we serve. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, military status, or any other protected characteristic

Not sure you check every box? Research shows that candidates from underrepresented backgrounds often only apply if they meet 100% of the criteria. If you believe you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply!    \n\n\n