Instructor Print Studio - Willem de Kooning Academy–Publication Station (0,6 fte)

Join the Print Studio Team at Willem de Kooning Academy – Publication Station

The Willem de Kooning Academy, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (WdKA/RUAS), offers a variety of bachelor and master’s programmes in the field of visual culture, art, design, education in arts, and leisure management. The curriculum of the Willem de Kooning Academy is founded on an interdisciplinary ethos. The Majors are the entry point of study for all Bachelor students; the Practices of the interdisciplinary research contexts in the second half of the Bachelor programs; and the highly unique Stations (advanced workshops focused on Research through Making) complete the three pillars of the institute.

The Stations

The stations are centres of knowledge and expertise. They are both physical and non-physical locations that cover traditional as well as innovative technologies. The stations are at the vanguard of the developments within the professional field and the processes of production that are relevant for the art and design practice. Stations are not only a space of execution and production, but also a space in which tutors, instructors and students question why we make, how we make and for whom we make. Stations are part of a collaborative effort (an educational instrument) to develop a student-driven curriculum that supports self-directed learning.

About the Publication Station

The Publication Station is a learning environment that supports students from across disciplines in developing both digital and physical publications. It differs from a conventional print lab through its strong emphasis on research through making, combining hands-on practice with conceptual exploration. The Station explores the future of publishing by combining traditional print methods with digital innovation and hybrid publishing strategies – for example, by integrating classic techniques with coded design to create new, smart forms of publication.

A team of specialised instructors and tutors supports students through a combination of one-on-one guidance, group instruction and skills-based workshops, encouraging them to realise their ideas through prototyping, small-scale production, and experimentation.

About the Print Studio

The Print Studio is one of the three core studios within the Publication Station. It features two A2 inkjet photo printers, two roll-fed inkjet printers, Canon V900 digital production printers, binding machines, office copiers, and a professional guillotine paper cutter. It is a workspace where students learn how to bring their publications to life – from initial print files to finished prototypes or small editions.

What will you be doing?

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Instructor to join the Print Studio team. You will support students in mastering digital printing techniques and production workflows, helping them realise their ideas in print and expand their understanding of the publication process.

Your focus will be on both the technical and educational aspects of the studio. You will maintain and operate digital printers, advise students on file preparation and printing, and support the continued development of sustainable and experimental print practices within the station.

You will work independently and collaboratively as part of a small, enthusiastic team. The ideal candidate combines technical know-how with a passion for education and enjoys working closely with students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Provide instruction in digital printing techniques across all levels, from beginner to advanced.
• Support students in preparing files for various printing workflows.
• Guide and coach students individually and in small groups as they develop and produce their print-based projects.
• Manage the day-to-day operation of the Print Studio, including technical maintenance and troubleshooting of printers and mechanical equipment.
• Help keep studio software, documentation, and instructional materials up to date.
• Work closely with other instructors and tutors to contribute to an inspiring, safe, and accessible learning environment.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking a proactive and technically skilled instructor with experience in commercial and/or experimental digital printing practices. You bring a passion for print, a curiosity for innovation, and a desire to share your expertise with emerging makers and designers.

• You show good communication skills and social skills.
• You like to work in an organised, clean, and structured way and can work independently on tasks.
• Have demonstrable work experience in digital print production and are experienced in file preparation, print workflows and can teach these effectively.
• Have technical knowledge of digital printers and experience with their maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Are confident using software such as Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Acrobat Pro.
• Have experience with Command Workstation and Mirage (preferred).
• Have a knowledge of basic bookbinding techniques and tools.
• Can bridge professional production techniques with experimental and artistic approaches.
• You can create a stimulating learning environment and can motivate and generate enthusiasm among students.
• Your level of working and thinking is relevant to higher professional education (completed HBO education).
• You have a clear motivation and affinity with art, design, and publication-making; you can communicate, and share and transfer knowledge, in both Dutch and English.

The Print Studio is part of the Publication Station, which also includes a Printmaking Studio focused on more analogue techniques such as screen printing, linocut, etching and other traditional processes. While this position is primarily based in the digital Print Studio, the ability to contribute to both digital and analogue printing practices will be considered a strong plus.

What do we offer?

Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences offers a temporary one-year employment contract (D4 cao hbo) for 0.6 FTE. The salary ranges from € 3.233,14 to € 4.376,46 gross per month (salary scale 8) for full-time employment. This includes 8% holiday pay and a 13th-month allowance (8.3%). Our secondary benefits include good training opportunities, including unlimited access to stations for professionalization, and an attractive pension plan. In addition, we offer a good work-life balance through more than 50 days off per year for full-time employment.

All employees must be able to provide a Certificate of Conduct (VOG) and, if applicable, hold a valid EU work permit.

We aim at diversity and recruiting colleagues from groups currently underrepresented in our education. We give preference to a candidate who strengthens the diversity within our team in case of equal suitability.

Being able to provide a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) is a condition of employment as well as a valid EU work permit if you are from outside the EU.

Closing date: June 9, 2025