The Opportunity.

The Studio Manager is responsible for all aspects of the ceramics studio including, planning program of classes and workshops, student communication, supervising freelance instructors, materials and supply upkeep, clay firings and studio cleanliness. The Ceramics Manager is responsible for being informed of all matters related to the ceramic studio as well as communicating needs for the preparation, upkeep and operations of the studio and workshops. This position requires effective collaboration and communication skills with Trustees staff and with the public.

In this role you will:

Administrative and Managerial (18 hours/week)

• Hire, train, schedule and oversee freelance instructors and Ceramics Studio Assistant

• Communicate with ceramics students using a shared inbox and by responding to voicemails, in collaboration with Visitor Services Staff

• Set annual program for workshops and classes, delivering detailed class descriptions quarterly

  • Work with Manager of Public Programs to develop exhibition related workshops, as needed

  • Research on artwork and exhibitions as related to workshop offerings

• Communicate, collect and process student firing fees

• Maintain Ceramics Studio Budget, set in collaboration with Public Programming and Education Manager

• Provide Public Programming and Education Manager with materials and information for regular and timely marketing

• Review website information twice annually for updates to Ceramics description

Technical Work & Clay Firing (8 hours/week)

• Firing of works created by students on an on-going basis

• Equipment repairs when within skill-set of practicing potter (ex. basic electric kiln repair detailed in manuals, but not that which requires a licensed electrician)

• Identify equipment needs and coordinate the acquisition of new equipment or parts

Studio Upkeep (5 hours/week)

• Responsible for general cleanliness and organization of studio

• Creating a safe, healthy environment for students and staff

• Order and maintain supplies

• Collaborate with Trustees staff on studio improvement projects

• Coordinate storage and pick up of student supplies and finished work

Teaching (4 hours/week)

• Teaching at least one class per term, including developing, preparing, and facilitating the program.

Allowances & Conditions

• Use of the Ceramic Sculpture Studio facilities, utilities, and supplies for the creation of personal work as related to the workshops being offered

• Use of the Ceramic Sculpture Studio as needed outside of workshop and open studio hours

• Responsible for the cost of supplies needed for personal work made outside of the concept of the workshops being offered

• DeCordova is not responsible for replacement or payment of personal work being made or stored in the Ceramic Sculpture Studio

Qualifications

• A minimum of 5 years in a ceramics studio with varied experience in artistic skills, ceramic firing expertise and teaching a range of classes.

• A minimum of 3 years managing a ceramic studio, with some experience managing staff

• Knowledge of current trends in ceramics, sculpture, and art

• Highly organized and collaborative with excellent communication skills

• Interest in contemporary art and the engagement initiatives at deCordova

• Flexibility in managing priorities, staff and organizational goals

• Ability to carry 50 lbs at a time and in good physical health to meet the demands of operating a clay studio.

About The Trustees:

The Trustees places are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in what we do. Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, we preserve, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity. We have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public. We are a non-profit conservation organization funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and our 100,000 Member households

Our seasonal staff plays an integral role in ensuring that our visitors enjoy our extraordinary places. Every season brings an influx of visitors of all ages and backgrounds who want to explore and be inspired by our properties. Sandy beaches, wooded trails, cultural gardens, historic homes, community supported agriculture—there are many ways for visitors to discover and explore The Trustees, and just as many opportunities for seasonal employees to make each visitor’s experience special.

The Trustees offers competitive compensation, as well as the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team across the Commonwealth who love the outdoors and the distinctive charms of New England, and who believe in celebrating and protecting our special places, for everyone, forever.

The Trustees is a proud equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any protected status including, but not limited to, age, race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, nation of origin, religion, or disability status and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ applicants. We aspire to reflect and effectively serve the residents and communities of Massachusetts, who are at the core of our mission.

Our commitment to advancing the organization’s vision for this work may be found here: Diversity, Belonging, Inclusion and Equity