Ceramics Technician

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

This information is intended to be a descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The list of essential functions below does not identify all duties performed by any single incumbent in this position. Perform other duties as assigned.

• Loading/firing/unloading electric and gas kilns
• Mixing and testing glazes, mixing and testing clay bodies
• Maintain good working conditions of kilns and related kiln equipment
• Maintain the safe and clean working conditions of the studio
• Take inventory of studio materials
• Manage a team of three graduate students who contribute to the aforementioned duties.
• This position works closely with a full-time faculty member in ceramics and acts as a liaison to undergraduate students working in the studio outside of class time.
• Active support for the College's Principles of Community and Institutional Values in the performance of job duties.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

The successful candidate will possess the knowledge, skills and ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the position or be able to explain or demonstrate how the essential functions will be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skills and abilities.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize workload.
• Ability to coordinate and train a team of student workers with varied levels of ceramic knowledge.
• Exposure to potentially hazardous materials, for which a mask and gloves must be worn.
• Exposure to extreme heat, for which refractory gloves, clothing, and a face shield must be worn.
• Exposure to open flames in relation to gas fueled kilns.
• Required to obey proper safety procedures when handling power tools.

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

BFA in ceramics or related field, or any combination of education, training or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and ability.

2 years demonstrated technical experience with the following: Firing electric and gas kilns; experience mixing cone 6 glazes; experience with basic kiln, wheel and studio equipment maintenance; and experience managing staff and/or student workers in a similar setting

Preferred qualifications: MFA in ceramics or related field and 3 years demonstrated experience as a ceramics technician or ceramics faculty member; experience operating basic wood shop tools and equipment.

LICENSES / CERTIFICATES:

None.

HOURS & CLASSIFICATION AND STATUS:

This is a temporary status, part-time (no more than 24 hours per week), non-benefits eligible, non-exempt position.

This position is expected to end on or before May 15, 2026.

Hourly rate range: $18.00-$20.00. The hourly rate of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

Will supervise student employees.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is quiet to loud.

Physical and Mental Requirements

Ability to maintain good concentration level while dealing with interruptions; attention to details with emphasis on accuracy; capable of giving, receiving, and analyzing information, formulating work plans, and articulating goals and action plans.

Sitting in a normal seated position for extended periods of time. Standing for extended periods of time. Reaching and extending hand(s) or arm(s) in any direction. Finger dexterity required to manipulate objects with fingers rather than the whole hand(s), or arm(s), for example, using a keyboard. Communication skills using the spoken word. Ability to see within normal parameters. Ability to hear within normal parameters. Ability to bend and stoop, for example, to file. Ability to move about. Ability to lift and carry short distances up to 50 lbs., for example to lift or move bags of clay, kiln shelves, and packages.