ICA San Diego - Ceramics Lab Technician

Job Opportunity

Join our team in Encinitas as the Ceramics Lab Technician!

Summary

ICA San Diego is a living laboratory for expanding the transformational power of contemporary art to build vibrant communities. Our exhibitions and events spark curiosity and open doors for new connections. Our classes help people connect the dots between art and their everyday lives. All our programs are designed to foster a thriving contemporary art ecosystem in San Diego.

The Ceramics Lab Technician provides ongoing support to the Ceramics Lab Manager and lab members. The Ceramics Lab Technician will assist with day-to-day tasks critical to the proper functioning of the Ceramic Lab. The Ceramics Lab Technician reports to the Ceramics Lab Manager.

Responsibilities

Load and unload kilns, and raku (electric, temperature, and computerized)
Assist in maintaining inventory of supplies
Mix glazes and clay
Train members and students in the use of studio equipment and studio safety
Assist in maintaining the environmental health and safety of the Ceramics Lab
Ensure safe handling and disposal of studio materials and maintain a clean and safe workspace
Continual improvement of knowledge of ceramic materials and techniques, studio organization, and studio operations
Perform general studio maintenance

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Experience

Experience loading and maintaining electric and raku kilns
Experience in all aspects of ceramic studio operation, including glaze materials, and proper mixing (clay and glazes) protocols and hazards
Lift at least 30 pounds, occasionally up to 50 pounds, bend over repeatedly (kiln loading)
Wear a dust respirator and be properly fitted with half mask respirator
Lift from ground to above shoulder
Bend, sit, push, pull, and perform tasks requiring manual dexterity
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Excellent customer service skills
Excellent problem solving skills
Computer proficiency
BA/BS degree in studio arts with an emphasis in ceramics, three years of related experience in a ceramics studio, or a comparable combination of related education and work experience

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The Ceramics Lab Technician will primarily work in the ICA Ceramics Lab located within the Education Pavilion at our North location in Encinitas. Work schedule includes some nights and weekends. The Ceramics Lab Technician is physically demanding, requiring frequent lifting of weights between 30 and 50 lbs.; constant bending to load and unload kilns; standing for extended periods; and some pushing, pulling, and performing tasks requiring manual dexterity.

Travel

Little to no travel will be required of the Ceramics Lab Technician.

Compensation

Hourly rate is $20 with 16 hours scheduled in a typical week. Working hours will mostly coincide with open Ceramics Lab hours. Benefits include staff appreciation days, discounts at select Balboa Park restaurants and shops, and free admission to member museums.

Inclusion

ICA San Diego strives to demonstrate leadership by modeling excellence and best practices for inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. We believe in the power of human creativity and value the opportunities for connection and learning that exist when cultures and communities come together in collaboration and understanding. We commit to championing policies and practices that value diversity, foster cultural equity, and create an accessible and inclusive environment. ICA San Diego does not discriminate based on race/ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, socioeconomic status, geography, citizenship status, religion, or any other protected class. We recognize our strengths lie in the broad range of people who contribute their time and talents to our mission and are dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive place. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees. If you require accommodations, please let us know by contacting us at

jobs@icasandiego.org.