All is Explained:

A Service Based Experience PositionService Based Experience Position

• Lasts for the duration of the gallery season from February/March through November (this is negotiable).

• Has a greater level of supervisory responsibility than an Internship position.

• Requires less concentrated voluntary hours-quotas i.e. Internship can exceed 20 hours per month; SBE averages at 12 hours per month depending on position (20 hours during installation periods for “shop” and “installation”). An SBE requires a minimum of 8 voluntary hours during quieter months.

• SBE positions are more suitable for graduates and working adults although students are welcome to apply.

• You do not have to have any formal education to apply for an SBE if you can prove that you have relevant experience for the position.

• When possible, an incoming SBE will receive some mentorship/training from their predecessor in the position. SBE candidates will also receive training from TSF staff.

• The Manager of Volunteer Programs and/or the Building and Installation Manager will be SBE staff supervisors.

An Internship PositionAn Internship Position

• Project-based or specialized opportunity.

• Will take a level of supervisory responsibility during assigned projects/events.

• Requires 20-30 hours during the month preceding their assigned projects/events, culminating in a concentrated 20 hours+ during the week of the projects/events. This varies according to position.

• Students, graduates and working adults may apply for Internship positions. However the hour-quota may be more suitable for students and recent graduates.

• Internships at The Soap Factory may be eligible for course credit.

• We encourage students from a variety of backgrounds to apply. You do not have to have formal education to apply for an Internship at The Soap Factory provided that you can prove that you have relevant experience for the position.

• An Intern at The Soap Factory will receive training from staff members and will be assigned to a specific staff supervisor for the duration of their project.

Applicable to both, Internships and SBE PositionsApplicable to both, Internships and SBE Positions

All Interns and SBE position candidates are expected to diversify their experience within the The Soap Factory by assisting with more generalized gallery operations when it is deemed appropriate by the Manager of Volunteer and/or their staff supervisor.

• All Intern and SBE position candidates will receive learning contracts detailing goals and expectations for their tenure.

• Each Intern and SBE will be asked to complete a mid-term questionnaire and an evaluation upon completion of their position.

• SBE candidates are required to attend a once monthly mandatory meeting with the Manager of Volunteer Program.

• Interns are required to attend mandatory meetings with their assigned staff supervisor (at least once a month)

Internships at The Soap Factory in 2008

In 2008 The Soap Factory had 18 Interns/voluntary team leads throughout the year. Together they contributed over 750 voluntary hours to the gallery and proved to be invaluable members of our unpaid staff, providing vital assistance in every area of gallery operation. The Soap Factory is an equal opportunity employer.

On a smart phone? Click here for access to popup info above.

What is the difference between a Service Based Experience Position (SBE) when compared to an Internship?

At The Soap Factory (TSF) we have two categories of opportunity available. These categories were put in place to delineate timescale and candidate suitability for certain roles at the gallery. For answers look left!

Incentives for all Internships and SBEs

• Use of The Soap Factory’s wood shop and volunteer meeting room (wood shop can only be used when the gallery is closed).

• Take part in volunteer incentive activities such as: the bike-a-whirl (NE bike tour), Volunteer Biennale Exhibition and volunteer get-togethers.

• Eligibility for a studio space on the 2nd and 3rd floors (8 hrs per month minimum, may be a waiting list).

• A written reference from staff supervisor. If learning objectives/goals are reached.

• Work experience at one of the Midwest’s most prestigious art spaces devoted to the work of emerging artists.

• Unconventional and broad-ranging experience, which will prepare you for a job within arts admin or gallery operations.

• Membership of one of the largest and most vibrant volunteer communities in the Twin Cities. As well as involvement in the larger art community.