Spatial Computing/VR Assistant Programmer

Description

SUMMARY:

MCAD is seeking a Spatial Computing/VR Assistant Programmer. The Spatial Computing/VR Assistant Programmer is responsible for working with two research assistants in creating XR - virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) content using data and media. The end-use of which will be for digital humanities, pedagogical, and scientific components of a massive immersive mapping project of areas in Alaska which are being studied, with particular focus on climate change and permafrost thaw. The Spatial Computing/VR Assistant Programmer must be sensitive to college needs, employee and student goodwill, and overall brand equity of MCAD as an employer and educational institution.

DETAILS: This is a full time, non-exempt position expected to work 35 hours a week, with field work in Alaska. This position reports to Post Graduate Researcher and is paid $26 hourly and the position is expected to last six months.

TO APPLY: Please submit a resume and cover letter to https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/b0ccf9fc-c11e-4ce1-bb54-075eb5c74c59/Minneapolis-College-of-Art-and-Design. Priority will be given to those who respond by February 28, 2024. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist with integrating media and data (photo, video, audio, LiDAR point clouds) into a collaborative interactive mapping platform on Cesium, including integration with VR headset applications. 
• Assist with fieldwork in remote regions of Arctic and SubArctic Alaska.
• Use of 2D photography and video cameras, an Apple Vision Pro headset, audio recorders, microphones, and a Matterport 3 scanning camera and a LiDAR device. 
• Prepping equipment for the day by rigging tripods and lighting equipment.
• Charging batteries, repacking bags, hard cases, and luggage as needed between locations.
• Transfering media from cards to laptops in the field and at the end of each day.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Represents MCAD's vision, purpose, and values in day to day work and interactions with MCAD students, staff, faculty, and campus guests, as well as the greater community.
• Other duties as assigned.  
• Represents MCAD's vision, purpose, and values in day to day work and interactions with MCAD students, staff, faculty, and campus guests, as well as the greater community. 

Requirements

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Undergraduate degree in computer engineering with focus on visual multimedia and XR programming, media arts, filmmaking, 3D game design, integrated design, or landscape architecture.
• Flexibility to spend a week in Alaska in May, June, July, or August. 
• Experience with photography and video production and editing preferred. 
• Experience with 3D rendering software preferred.
• Experience with Xcode or similar programming is preferred.
• Experience with ESRI ArcGIS StoryMaps preferred.
• Experience with Google Maps, Earth, and MyMaps or similar preferred. 

ENVIRONMENT: This position operates in a professional office environment. This position requires the ability and willingness to closely partner with team members and colleagues in other departments. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. Upon request, reasonable accommodation will be provided to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

BENEFITS: MCAD's community of staff and faculty enjoy a dynamic, creative, and inclusive work environment. We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, and 403(b) retirement plans, commuter benefits, and employer paid basic life insurance policy, short term and long-term disability coverage.
MCAD promotes work-life balance with a 35 hour work week, will receive 14 paid holidays, an additional two personal holidays, accrued vacation time, accrued sick time, and volunteer time off.
In addition, after six months of service, full-time employees and their eligible dependents can receive free tuition at MCAD, as well as the potential to receive reduced tuition at more than 600 colleges nationwide.

BACKGROUND: Founded in 1886, Minneapolis College of Art and Design is located in the rich creative community of the Twin Cities. Recognized nationally and internationally for its innovative approaches to art and design  education, MCAD is home to approximately 800 students from 45 states and 15 countries. The college offers bachelor's degrees in fourteen disciplines including arts entrepreneurship, design, fine arts, and media arts; one MFA; three online master's degrees; and continuing education classes for all ages. Through the core curriculum, students focus on their careers and craft by learning technical and professional skills while developing their creative leadership capabilities. 

MCAD is especially interested in candidates from under-represented groups as well as individuals who have experience with diverse populations who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the MCAD community. MCAD welcomes diversity of identity, experience, and thought. Members of marginalized communities are encouraged to apply.