Ceramic Studio Technician and Fabricator

Powerhouse is seeking a full-time Ceramic Studio Technician & Fabricator who will report to the Ceramic Studio Director and will participate in all aspects of shop management and fabrication. The ceramic studio technician will play a key role in maintaining daily operations of the studio.

Responsibilities:

Community Ceramic Studio

• Provide members with assistance and service including, distributing materials, assistance with the firing process, orientation, training on equipment, and all issues as it relates 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 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

Fabrication Studio

• On a project basis partake in the executing fabrication projects on schedule and within budget
• Research and develop innovative fabrication techniques and methods
• Collaborate with other staff, shops, and departments on projects as needed

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 skills that are transferable, please apply. 

• 5+ years’ experience or, the equivalent of, in ceramic studio technical operations
• Knowledge of best practices in health and safety
• Basic knowledge 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, and/or hand building
• Attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, ability to problem solve
• Ability to prioritize shifting needs of a busy membership and fabrication studio
• Fluency in G Suite

Areas of interest but not mandatory:

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

Compensation & Benefits: Salary range is $25-29 and commensurate with experience. Benefits include health insurance, an employer-sponsored retirement plan, generous paid vacation, and a Citibike membership.The shifts available for this position will be 8-hour increments while the  building is open from 8:00am-10:00pm on weekdays and 10:00-8:00pm on weekends. Flexibility on evenings and weekends is required.