Ceramics Studio Manager

Jobs
Written By Ben Thietje

The Phipps Center for the Arts in Hudson, WI is seeking a ceramics studio manager.

Salary:
$10,400 per year, 10 hours/week on average, fluctuates depending on studio needs and kiln schedule

Additional teaching income:
potentially 3-4 hours/week, $32/hour

Perks:
Phipps studio and kiln access

About the Phipps Center for the Arts:
For over 40 years, the Phipps Center for the Arts has been a welcoming home for the St. Croix River Valley and beyond, empowering and cultivating lifelong artistic expression, participation, and appreciation. We are committed to providing a space where everyone can explore and celebrate the arts. The Phipps strives to foster an environment of respect, where all creative voices are supported—regardless of race, ethnicity, creed, color, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, socio-economic status, religion, age, gender, or gender identity.

Position Overview:
The Phipps Center for the Arts is seeking an experienced and dependable Ceramics Studio Manager to oversee our community pottery studio. This role balances administrative duties with hands-on studio management, ensuring that the studio operates efficiently, safely, and inclusively. The number of hours varies weekly, and some work can be completed on a flexible schedule. The Ceramics Studio Manager ideally teaches weekly pottery classes and workshops throughout the year.

Key Responsibilities:

Administrative Duties

  • Develop quarterly class schedules and coordinate with teaching artists

  • Schedule kiln firings and ensure projects are completed in a timely manner

  • Communicate studio policies with teaching artists and students

  • Maintain inventory, order materials, and coordinate occasional supply pickups

  • Monitor and respond to studio-related emails

Studio Duties

  • Load and fire kilns, including electric kilns 

  • Reclaim clay and mix glazes as needed 

  • Conduct quarterly studio cleaning and twice-yearly kiln shelf grinding 

  • Maintain and repair ceramic studio equipment 

  • Ensure general studio upkeep and organization

Additional Responsibilities

  • Work with the Arts Engagement Director to establish studio priorities and needs 

  • Recommend, train, and support teaching artists 

  • Contribute to a positive, inclusive studio environment 

  • Occasionally teach classes or workshops 

  • Weekend and evening availability required

Qualifications:

  • Degree and/or experience in ceramic arts or related field 

  • Proficiency in wheel throwing, handbuilding, and community studio operations 

  • Experience with firing, maintaining and performing basic repair on kilns 

  • Previous teaching experience  

  • Strong organizational and communication skills 

  • Dependable, self-motivated, and able to work independently 

  • Familiarity with Lockerbie-style kickwheels and Skutt electric kilns is a plus 

  • Basic knowledge of safety guidelines related to clay dust, chemicals and kiln operation

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. 

  • Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting, standing, bending, reaching, squatting, and navigating stairs while carrying heavy materials

The Phipps Center for the Arts is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any legally protected status or characteristic. Minority/Female/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Veteran. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

Click HERE to apply.
Deadline to apply: December 22, 2025

Ben Thietje
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