Innovation Center - Student Lab Assistant

The New School's Innovation Center is actively seeking enthusiastic and motivated undergraduate students to join our team as Lab Assistants. These roles will work closely with the Senior Director and team and will focus on supporting and advancing the lab's curriculum and extracurricular programs related to augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR). The purpose of the Lab within the extended reality domain is to innovate and design new applications in the areas of virtual, augmented, and mixed realities. This offers an incredible opportunity for those eager to engage in various Innovation initiatives, and partnership projects, and to continue to learn about the cutting-edge field of AR/VR/MR. Ideal candidates should have experience in working with or developing Augmented and Virtual reality applications and a proactive approach to further developing their skills. Excellent communication skills are essential, particularly the ability to explain complex AR/VR/MR concepts to a diverse community.

Expected hours of work: 10-15 hrs / per week

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.

Responsibilities:

Extended Reality (XR/VR/AR) Support  

• Utilize, test, evaluate, and resolve issues with Augmented and Virtual Reality content and equipment within the lab environment. Training on the Lab’s equipment will be provided as part of the onboarding process for this position.

• Facilitate student access to VR and AR gear during open hours and classroom visits, ensuring an optimal user experience.

• assist in the exploration and development of projects using 3D AR/VR applications such as Unity, Blender, and Adobe Aero.

• Provide technical support, training, and assistance to students and faculty.

• Conduct user testing and research on AR/VR/MR applications
   

Communications and Web Platforms:

• Conceptualize and design visuals, and develop illustrations for workshops and promotional materials.

• Produce and edit multimedia content including video, web, social media, and graphics.

• Schedule and maintain lab media publication calendar.

• Assist with graphic design and content creation for web and social media.

• Manage digital communications platforms like Websites and Instagram. Write posts on Social Media, Digital trends, VR/AR, and Emerging technologies.

• Organize digital content to expand the center’s presence.

Project and Events Management:

• Assist with multiple projects with time efficiency and attention to detail.

• Assist with workshops, hackathons, conferences, and public events.

• Support administrative tasks related to lab projects, such as scheduling meetings, managing project documentation, and maintaining research databases

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at The New School

• Background in immersive/digital media/ design /video/photography/ communications/ marketing.

• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Proven organizational and logistical capabilities, including strong event management skills

• Ability to work within the Center’s guidelines and enforce policy and procedures

• Ability to maintain focus and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.

• Knowledge of audio/video equipment and multimedia design applications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with VR headsets like the Meta Quest 2, Quest Pro, HTC Vive Elite or Valve Index 

• Experience and/or willingness to learn 360 Video, VR/AR development platforms like Unity, Blender, and Adobe Aero.

• Strong skills in photography, video editing, Adobe CC design apps, and web publishing platforms such as WordPress.

• Familiarity with development for Virtual and Augmented Reality, UX, and Interaction design.

• Some experience in project management, game or application development, tutoring sessions, and helping with workshops.

• Must be customer service-oriented, including an abundance of patience, kindness, and helpfulness.

This is a unique opportunity for students interested in immersive technologies, digital media, and emerging tech trends to build their skillset and contribute to various Innovation initiatives. We welcome applicants who are driven and creative, and who are eager to engage proactively in this multidisciplinary role.
 

Work Mode: On-Campus Position – Employees in this position are expected to work in the Innovation Center Lab

Hourly Rate:
$17 - 19 

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities will include assisting with XR projects and events, facilitating VR/AR workshops, and providing support to students during open lab hours. In addition, students will assist with developing visuals and videos for communication and social media about the center’s projects.