Ensures that the WGL is aligned with curricular and programmatic goals of the University. Works with WGL faculty director and academic leadership to research developments in the fields of gaming and game development, and make strategic investments in technologies and products that support academic and research goals.
Maintains and supports the physical resources of WGL and HAL including: analog and digital account based game collections, consoles and associated AV systems, gaming computers, studio and commons spaces, prototyping and development tools, 3D printers, laser cutters, and other digital fabrication and gaming equipment.
Provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for creative activity at the Game Lab during facility operating hours to all users, including academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities.
In partnership with colleagues and student staff, develops and supports programming for WGL, HAL, and MADD Center users that encourages community and empowers users to make the fullest use of resources, including public lectures and workshops, student club activities, and other engagements.
With the Associate Director of MADD Arts Labs, hires, trains, schedules, and supervises student staff assigned to the circulation/help desk, Game Lab, and Hack Arts Lab, to support the program and operations of the MADD Center Arts Labs overall.
Develops and distributes training materials such as quick start guides, Canvas quizzes (LMS) WIKI articles, etc.
Mentors and supports faculty, students, and partners who are using WGL for board, card, tabletop, mixed reality, and/or video game design projects
Under supervision of the Associate Director for MADD Arts Labs, develops and tracks the Game Lab budget; recommends, researches, and orders new or replacement technology, games, supplies, and systems; monitors and processes service bureau fees.
Uses moderate/solid understanding and experience to administer the delivery of services to program participants and/or beneficiaries.
Has moderate/high levels of interactions with faculty, researchers and staff for committee work or information.
Performs other related work as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
MFA/MA in in arts, media, game development, or a related field.
Experience:
5 years digital media and/or game development, design, technology, operations experience.
Technical Skills or Knowledge:
Game engine and development platforms (e.g., Unity, Unreal, Twine, RPG Maker).
3D design and animation (e.g., Vectorworks, Blender, Maya).
2D design (Adobe CC).
Familiarity with installing and supporting Mac and PC operating systems.
Familiarity with cloud based collaboration tools (G suite, Basecamp).
Preferred Competencies
Strong knowledge of a range of game development tools and processes, and passion for learning and playing games.
Exceptional organizational and customer service skills.
Oversee complex projects and schedules, maintain deadlines, work within budgets, with the ability to set priorities and manage several projects simultaneously.
Effectively translate and communicate complex technical details to managers, stakeholders and technical staff.
Excellent written and spoken communication skills with the ability to synthesize and accurately present relevant information.
Demonstrated success in building collaborative relationships with diverse constituencies including faculty, students, staff, artists, and community members.
Knowledge of the University of Chicago or another large research institution.
Working Conditions
Moves equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.
Conducts regular facility rounds and be stationary for extended periods of time.
Occasional evening and weekend work.
Travels off site to local vendors and work meetings.
Application Documents
Resume/CV (required)
Cover Letter (preferred)
References Contact Information (3) (preferred)
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