Currently hiring: Lead Technician

Hey Clay is a new pottery studio in Gowanus, Brooklyn with the mission to promote community wellbeing by expanding access to the mindful practice of pottery. Hey Clay aims to offer classes, workshops and memberships to new and seasoned potters of all ages via offerings which are inclusive, flexible and accessible. Hey Clay is seeking its first hire, a Lead Technician to help kick start studio operations. The Lead Technician will have a key role to play in establishing policies and systems as well as in studio setup and process optimization. They will be the in-house expert on all technical aspects of running a pottery studio - from material flow, firing scheduling, quality control, glazes etc. The Lead Technician will directly report to the Founder and work closely with them to present best-in-class studio practices to its patrons.

Responsibilities

  • Help design studio systems and processes related to shelving, product flow, firing scheduling, kiln utilization, pugging etc. including giving inputs to studio setup, equipment placement etc.

  • Implement said systems and processes to deliver fired pieces to studio patrons within a reasonable time frame

  • Continuously improve systems and processes to deliver high quality experience, service and firing to studio patrons as the studio grows and evolves in its offerings

  • Assist in maintaining and creating up-to-date, user-friendly signage and instructions for various processes and equipment around the studio

  • Maintain quality control of all mixed glazes and troubleshoot glaze imperfections when needed

  • Perform timely and regular maintenance tasks for equipment and furniture

  • Load, unload and monitor kilns and its operations

  • Mix, maintain and supply clay for all programming and maintain reclaimed clay

  • Formulate, test and mix glazes, slips and washes and have them always available for patrons to utilize for their work

  • Assist in receiving inventory and deliveries as applicable

  • Assist as needed in patron orientation which would include guidance on studio operations, rules and regulations, usage of materials and equipment, best practices on health and safety etc.

  • Assist as needed in workshops, classes etc.

  • Assist in hiring and training of other studio staff members as needed

  • Report any issues to Founder in a timely manner for speedy resolution

  • Maintain and clean, tidy and dust-free studio environment with collaboration with other staff members and patrons of the studio

Requirements

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts required; Master of Fine Arts desired

  • At least 5 years’ experience in ceramic studios as a technician

  • At least 5 years’ experience in kiln loading, basic chemistry, glaze mixing, clay mixing with pug mills

  • Ability to effectively problem solve and find solutions to common glaze defects

  • Ability to effectively communicate with students, instructors, members, the public at large and act as an ambassador to the studio

  • Manage a team of studio technicians

  • Ability to work independently without constant supervision

  • Ability to prioritize tasks based on the overarching goals of the studio

  • Ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs.

Compensation and benefits

  • This position is hourly, W2 and compensated at $30 per hour

  • Hours of working will be mutually agreed upon based on studio needs and pace of studio ramp up

  • Opportunity to work hours before studio being open to the public

  • Access to all studio materials and equipment during off-work hours

  • Other benefits TBD

How to apply

Email your resume to cauvery@heyclay.studio