Ceramic Technician (2 Days Per Week)

Main Duties

Studio Management

• Order and maintain all materials and tools in the studio
• Mix slips and glazes
• Manage the kiln firings of the gas and electric kiln (Training will be given), loading and unloading kilns

Health and Safety

• Be the main point of contact for Health and Safety in the studio
• Adhere to relevant risk assessments and use of personal protective equipment as required
• Take training when necessary to keep up to date with H&S

Maintenance

• Maintain the studio equipment and kilns. Organise kiln engineers or other external contractors when necessary
• Recycle clay by hand and using the pugmill
• Empty clay waste traps when needed

Skills and Experience Required

The main function of this role is to manage the day-to-day activity, maintenance and health and safety of the Ceramics Studio. The Ceramics Technician will work closely with the Director and Teachers to ensure ceramic activity is delivered efficiently, in a timely manner and to a high quality across the programme.

Job Requirements

• Technical knowledge of clay processes and materials.
• Ability to carry out the physical demands of the job such as unloading clay deliveries. Must be able to lift 12.5kg bags of clay
• A good understanding of the current HSE guidance and health and safety legislation and regulations to ensure a safe and compliant work space and support artists and local communities to work within a safe and engaging environment.
• Excellent knowledge of glaze and slip making, reclaiming clay.
• Experience of packing, loading, unloading and firing kilns. Batt-washing shelves and removing glaze
• Experience of working in a similar role
• Highly organised and able to work as part of a team
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Good communication skills are required to arrange with teachers necessary preparation for lessons and ensure work is fired on time ready for glazing sessions
• IT skills Microsoft Office and Outlook
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• A commitment to diversity and equal opportunity in relation to the arts
• Strong desire to continue to develop and train
• Degree or equivalent experience/alternative