Substitute Ceramics Studio Technician

The Ceramics Studio Technician provides technical support to students in the Ceramics Studio. Core duties include covering open studio hours on either Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday. This is a temporary position for the Spring 2027 semester only. The position averages 6 hours per week and does not include benefits. Our current Lab Technicians will cover the remaining hours. On rare occasions, we may need coverage on a Friday or Saturday if current Lab Technicians call out sick. 

Schedule: 

• Monday & Wednesday: 8–11 am
• Tuesday & Thursday: 2 – 5 pm
• (Occasional) Fridays: 9 am–5 pm
• (Occasional) Saturdays: 9 am – 4 pm

The Ceramics Studio Manager and other technicians will coordinate schedules to determine coverage. The technician reports to the Ceramics Studio Manager and is supervised by the Dean of Arts and Sciences.Studio Maintenance & Equipment Supervision:

• Oversee the use and upkeep of ceramic equipment.
• Maintain inventory of clay, glaze, and other materials.

Kiln Operations:

• Assist with firing kilns, including loading, unloading, and cleaning kiln shelves.

Open Studio Oversight:

• Supervise open studio hours without teaching responsibilities.
• Enforce health and safety standards as per OSHA guidelines.

Day-to-Day Studio Operations:

• Carry out tasks under the direction of the Ceramics Studio Manager.

Other Duties:

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Ceramics Studio Manager.

Note: This job description is not exhaustive. Employees may be assigned additional tasks as needed to support the studio's operations.Clay Management:

• Mix and de-air clay; maintain 3-4 barrels of prepared clay.
• Clean pugmills and clay mixing areas after use.
• Organize and maintain the cleanliness of dry clay storage.

Glazes and Materials:

• Keep dry glaze materials stocked and labeled.
• Clean and organize glaze buckets and shelves.
• Notify the Ceramics Studio Manager when materials are low.
• Create and display glaze test tiles for student reference.
• Ensure oxide jars and glaze buckets are properly labeled and maintained.

Slips and Velvet Glazes:

• Maintain slip levels (¾ full) and label buckets.
• Ensure containers of trailing slips, oxide washes, and velvet jars are clean and organized.
• Mix and label brushing slips.

Kiln Area:

• Assist with loading, firing, and unloading kilns.
• Clean kiln shelves and apply kiln wash as needed.
• Keep the kiln area clean and organized, ensuring proper storage of tools and materials.
• Store Raku tongs and gloves in their proper area
• Ensure the electric kiln lids remain closed, except when loading, and keep the Raku kiln covered when not in use.

Studio Maintenance:

• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the studio.
• Assist students with technical issues related to slab rollers, extruders, and potter’s wheels.
• Enforce student responsibility for cleaning up their workspace.
• Perform deep cleaning of the studio floor once a month.
• Ensure proper disposal of mop water and waste.
• Empty and properly dispose of the water in sink buckets once a week.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Submit timesheets for supervisor approval by the due date.
• Safely instruct students on the use of equipment.
• Inform the Ceramics Studio Manager if you are ill or unable to perform your job responsibilities.
• Communicate studio needs and concerns.

• Associate’s degree and 1 year of experience or equivalent required. 
• Ability to perform tasks with minimal supervision.
• Knowledge of clay and glaze preparation and kiln operation.
• Basic math skills.
• Experience with postsecondary arts education, particularly ceramics.
• Must live in the Flagstaff, AZ area

Physical Requirements:
This position requires standing, sitting, and using hands to handle tools and materials. The employee must be able to lift or move up to 50 pounds. 

Work Environment:
The role involves operating large equipment, including kilns. The role may involve exposure to fumes, airborne particles, chemicals, and electrical hazards. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities.