Ceramics Lab Technician

Creative Arts Group seeks a full-time Ceramics Lab Technician to join our vibrant and active ceramics department. Working closely with teachers, students, and staff, the Ceramics Lab Technician plays a central role in supporting the daily operations of the studio and maintaining a safe, welcoming and well-functioning environment for artists of all ages and experience levels. The ideal candidate is knowledgeable, dependable, and collaborative, with hands-on ceramics experience. Training will be provided during a transition period beginning asap with the current Lab Technician.

Key Responsibilities:

Kiln Operations & Technical Support
• Load, fire, and unload two gas kilns and two electric kilns on a regular weekly schedule.
• Mix and maintain glazes according to studio standards.
• Maintain firing schedules and records.
• Recycle clay and maintain reclaim systems.
• Perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting on studio equipment.

Class & Instructor Support
• Prepare and maintain materials, tools, and studio spaces for classes and workshops.
• Support adult and youth instructors with studio setup, preparation, and cleanup.
• Communicate firing and production timelines to ensure projects are completed on schedule.
• Coordinate with staff regarding class needs and special projects.

Studio Operations
• Oversee twice-weekly open studio sessions, ensuring safety and proper studio use.
• Monitor inventory and assist with ordering and receiving ceramic supplies as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe studio environment in accordance with safety protocols and best practices.
• Assist with annual studio clean-outs and inventory management.

Hours
• Approximately 35 hours per week. Flexible weekday schedule; Saturday availability is required.

Qualifications:
• Minimum of two years of coursework and/or hands-on experience in ceramics.
• Basic understanding of clay bodies, glaze chemistry, chemical safety practices, and firing processes.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically active studio work.
• Comfort in using some power tools (drill, angle grinder, bench grinder).
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong communication, time-management, and organizational skills.
• Experience working with students and/or community studios preferred.

Training
• Three-month paid training and transition period with current Lab Tech.
• Candidate assumes primary responsibility beginning October 1.

Creative Arts Group is a vibrant community arts center serving the San Gabriel Valley, welcoming more than 2,000 students annually to participate in classes, workshops, exhibitions, and events. Founded in Sierra Madre in 1960, CAG is a nonprofit dedicated to making high-quality visual arts education accessible to all in a warm, inclusive, and multigenerational environment. Through its programs and exhibitions, CAG fosters creative skill-building, personal expression, and a strong sense of community.

Under federal law, all employers are required to verify that new employees are authorized to work in the United States. Prior to the start of employment, candidates must present acceptable documentation establishing identity and authorization to work in the United States. Offers of employment are contingent upon successful fingerprint/background clearance, as applicable. Creative Arts Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Salary: $22 – $24, hourly

Benefits: Benefits package and PTO

Dedicated studio table and shelving, and complimentary recycled clay for personal artistic use.

Opportunity to teach workshops or classes, subject to availability and mutual interest.

Education requirements: High School diploma

Deadline to apply: July 15, 2026

Documents required to apply: Resume, Cover Letter, References

How to apply: submit current resume, cover letter addressing qualifications, and 2 references to:

Diana Whitten, Executive Director
Creative Arts Group
108 N Baldwin
Sierra Madre, CA 91024
director@creativeartsgroup.org
(626) 355-8350