Studio Technician - Ceramics bei Munson Art School / Pratt Munson College of Art and Design

The Ceramics Studio Area Technician is responsible for maintaining and supporting all ceramics studio facilities used by both the Pratt Munson College of Art and Design and Munson Community Arts (MCA) programs. Studios include:

• Handbuilding and throwing studios

• Glaze lab

• Kiln areas (including kiln shed)

• Clay mixing room

• Related storage and workspaces

This is a part-time, academic-year, non-teaching position—35 hours per week (Monday–Friday), with occasional weekend hours to assist with events or coverage as needed. The Technician reports to the Dean and works under the daily direction of the Ceramics Studio Coordinator and ceramics instructors.

Our Culture

Munson is committed to community engagement and belonging. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background, and welcome the unique perspectives and experiences they bring. If your skills and qualifications align with this opportunity, we invite you to apply to join our team. This position will model the values and culture of the organization to colleagues and the public by being welcoming, inclusive, and respectful and will value collaboration across the organization. 

Essential Job Functions

Studio Maintenance & Support

• Ensure ceramics studios are clean, organized, and ready for classes

• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on studio equipment

• Clean, reglaze, and apply kiln wash to kiln shelves

• Load and unload kilns as needed

Safety & Environment

• Maintain a clean, dust-free, and safe working environment

• Use proper safety equipment and enforce established safety protocols across all ceramics areas
  
  

Materials & Supplies

• Mix, maintain, and distribute clay (including reclaimed clay)

• Prepare and maintain glazes, slips, and washes

• Assist with receiving and storing supply deliveries

• Track inventory; order tools, materials, and equipment as needed

Organization & Studio Presentation

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organization in all workspaces

• Keep tables, shelving, bats, floors, and storage areas orderly

Events & Scheduling

• Work a scheduled 35 hours per week (Monday–Friday), with flexibility for occasional weekend activity to support events or coverage needs

• Support setup and operations for special events involving ceramics

Communication & Community Engagement

• Respond to faculty and student inquiries professionally and promptly

• Provide in-studio support to instructors and assist new instructors or work-study students

• Build and maintain positive relationships with faculty, students, and staff

• Report concerns or facility issues to the Ceramics Coordinator and Administration

Additional Duties

• Complete other related tasks as assigned by the Ceramics Coordinator

• May be asked to serve on Munson interdivisional committees

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in ceramics, craft & design, fine arts, or related field preferred

• 1–2 years of experience in a ceramics studio environment preferred

Technical Competencies

• Proficient in operating, maintaining, and repairing ceramics equipment (kilns, wheels, mixers, etc.)

• Knowledge of glaze formulation, clay mixing, kiln wash application, and kiln shelf maintenance

• Familiarity with safety protocols, hazardous material handling

Organizational & Communication Skills

• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail 

• Excellent verbal communication and ability to support students and instructors

• Professional demeanor and collaborative approach in team environments 

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to perform physical work: lift up to 50 lbs. (over 50 lbs. requires assistance), load/unload kilns, carry materials, and stand/walk for extended periods

• Comfortable working in studio environments that may involve noise, dust, and kiln-related materials

The final candidate will be required to complete a post-offer, pre-employment background check.
 
Munson and Pratt Munson are equal opportunity employers.