Jr. Ceramics Studio Technician

Powerhouse Arts is a not-for-profit organization committed to creative expression. Housed in a purpose-built-facility in Brooklyn, the organization hosts an extended network of art and fabrication professionals and educators who work together to co-create and share artistic practices vital to the well-being of artists and the communities to which they serve. Our new facilities house fabrication services, production services, production spaces, and member workshops for artisans.

The Ceramic Technician reports to the Community Ceramic Studio Manager and participates in all aspects of community studio operations. The ceramic studio technician plays a crucial role in the studio's daily operations, maintenance, and member communication.

Responsibilities:

• Provide members with assistance and service, including distributing materials, helping with the firing process, orientation, training on equipment, and all issues as they relate to membership
• Assist in maintaining and creating accessible, accurate, user-friendly signage and instructions for various processes and equipment
• Assist in facilitating specialty workshops
• Monitor and educate members in health and safety best practices and proper use of equipment
• Load and monitor kilns
• Formulate, test, and mix glaze
• Materials processing: pugging clay, recycling slip, and glaze
• Collaboratively clean the studio daily
• Assist in maintaining equipment and furniture
• Follow material tracking protocol
• Execute opening and closing checklist depending on the shift you are signed up for
• Training studio monitors
• Collaborate on creating an accessible and safe work environment
• Occasionally partake in executing fabrication projects
• Research and develop innovative fabrication techniques and methods
• Collaborate with other staff, shops, and departments on projects as needed
• Participate in Powerhouse Arts events and shop tours as needed
• Occasional work required outside of regularly scheduled hours

Qualifications:

Powerhouse Arts is a safe, inclusive workplace for people of all backgrounds and walks of life. We strongly encourage you to apply if you are from a marginalized or underrepresented group. The requirements listed are guidelines; you don't have to satisfy every requirement or meet every qualification listed. If 80% of what you read fits you or if you have transferable skills, please apply.

• 2+ years’ experience or the equivalent of in ceramic studio technical operations
• Attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, ability to problem-solve
• Ability to prioritize shifting needs of a busy studio
• Knowledge of best practices in health and safety
• Desire to share knowledge and serve a robust community of artists
• Willingness to work within a community studio setting
• Basic understanding of kiln repair
• Glaze formulation and mixing
• Materials recycling––clay, slip, glaze, etc
• Basic handy skills for studio maintenance and upgrades
• Proficient in one or more of the following: mold making, slip casting, wheel throwing, or hand building
• Fluency in G Suite

Areas of interest but not required:

• Realistic/ figurative sculpting skills
• 3D printing in clay or other mediums
• Digital fabrication, CNC machining
• Ability to work in CAD programs
• Ability to work with PS and ID

Hours + Compensation: The schedule for this position is an 8-hour shift from Tuesday-Saturday or Sunday-Thursday with schedules between 9:30am-7:30pm. Evening and weekend work required. The hourly range for this role is $23-$26.

Benefits: Benefits include medical, dental and vision health insurance, an employer-sponsored retirement plan, generous paid vacation, sick time off, paid time off between Christmas and New Years, and a Citibike membership.

Powerhouse Arts is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants receive consideration without regard to race, age, ethnicity, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. We're committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds.