Ceramic Studio Assistant

Part time / $20 hourly / Tao of Clay / San Diego, CA

Tao of Clay is seeking a motivated individual with a passion for ceramics to facilitate the daily operations of our studio. They believe that creating art is as much about self-discovery as it is about the final piece. We’re looking for someone who shares this philosophy and is eager to dive into the dynamic environment of a growing studio. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to their own artistic practice while also thriving in a collaborative, creative team. Working closely with fellow artists and staff, you’ll contribute to our collective mission of building a unique and inspiring space, serving a creative community with top-notch facilities and programs. Together, you’ll foster an environment where creativity flourishes and everyone’s contributions are valued.

About:
Tao of Clay is a vibrant ceramic membership studio dedicated to providing a supportive environment for creatively driven individuals to explore and expand their passion for ceramic arts. They offer a diverse range of courses in throwing, hand-building, and glazing/firing, led by skilled in-house instructors and guest artists.

At Tao of Clay they harmonize the artistry of clay with the healing principles of Mindfulness and Organicity. They promote immersing ourselves in the creative process, prioritizing our present experiences, and shaping not only objects but also individual growth. By nurturing both the artist and the art, they’re fostering a passion for ceramics and helping people tap into their inner creativity in a welcoming communal space.

Requirements

Position Description:
-Clay & Glaze: Oversee and execute the routine and systematic reclaim of our proprietary clays. Manage and maintain glaze stock, ensuring consistency and quality. Assist in the development of new glazes as needed. Training will be provided.
-Assistance to Members & Students: Offer guidance on studio procedures, equipment usage, and ceramics techniques.
-Kiln Operations: load and unload kilns as needed. Training will be provided.
-Inventory Management: Monitor the inventory of clay, glazes, tools, and supplies and report any shortages to the Studio Manager.
-Retail Support: Provide customer assistance with orders and package pickups. Manage inventory, handle daily shop cleaning and maintenance, and track orders using our POS system.
-Studio Cleanliness: Help keep the studio clean and organized through regular cleaning of studio tables, wheels, sinks, slop and first rinse bins, and floor. Restock toiletries as needed. Report any bathroom maintenance issues to the Studio Manager.
-Class/Workshop Support: Assist with setup, cleanup, and participant support during workshops and classes as needed.
-Administrative Projects: Contribute to the development of courses, workshops, and events. Participate in weekly meetings with the administrative team, offering feedback and recommendations for system and procedure improvements.
-Equipment Maintenance: Conduct routine checks on ceramic equipment and report issues promptly. Training will be provided.
-Brand Ambassador: Collaborate with the Studio Manager to enhance our social media and marketing efforts by documenting and promoting studio activities across our social channels.

Additional Responsibilities
-The above descriptions outline the primary responsibilities of this role but are not an exhaustive list of all tasks and skills required.
-Studio Assistants may be occasionally asked to assist the CEO with their work, provided it does not disrupt their core duties.
-Flexibility is required, as responsibilities may extend beyond regular tasks as needed. The role may involve working evenings and weekends.
-This position requires physical work that includes moving objects up to 50 pounds.
-This job description is subject to change and updates as necessary during employment.

Basic Qualifications:
-Ceramics Facility Expertise: Deep understanding and hands-on experience in maintaining a ceramics studio, including the daily operations and upkeep required for optimal performance.
-Ceramics Processes: Proficient in contemporary ceramics techniques such as loading and firing electric kilns, mixing clay and glazes, wheel throwing, and hand-building.
-Equipment Knowledge: Skilled with equipment including electric wheels, clay extruders, slab rollers, and programing and maintaining electric kilns.
-Time Management & Organization: Demonstrated ability to manage time effectively, stay organized, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, have good attention to detail and safety, as well as coordinate both short-term and long-term projects.
-Initiative & Communication: A proactive self-starter capable of working both independently and as part of a team. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
-Customer Service & Problem-Solving: Ability to deliver exceptional customer service, handle pressure, and resolve conflicts effectively.
-Technical Skills: Proficient with relevant software and technology including Google drive, google docs, instagram and facebook.
-Flexible Availability: Willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:
-Experience in Ceramics Education: Proven experience teaching ceramics, ideally throwing.
-Drive and Personality: enthusiasm, eagerness to learn and to share knowledge, humility, strong in collaboration, personable, and a positive attitude.

Compensation & Benefits:
-Hourly compensation: $20/hr
-Schedule: 30-40 hours per week, nights and weekends
-Start Date: immediate
-Location: 2295 National Ave, San Diego CA.
-Reports to: Studio Manager and CEO
-Studio Access: Enjoy the flexibility to create your own work outside of regular studio hours.
-Teaching Opportunities: Develop and teach additional curriculum in addition to regular hours. Teaching compensation ranges $30-$40/hr depending on experience.
-Discounts: Receive 10% member discount on supplies.