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Ceramic Artist Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Ceramic Artist information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$46

$173

How much do ceramic artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for ceramic artist in Tennessee is $46.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $34.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ceramic artist?

A Ceramic Artist is a professional who designs and creates objects from clay, such as pottery, sculptures, and decorative pieces. They use techniques like hand-building, wheel-throwing, and glazing to shape and finish their work. Ceramic artists may sell their creations, work on commissions, or teach workshops. Many develop their own unique styles and experiment with different materials and firing methods.

What are the typical daily tasks and responsibilities of a ceramic artist?

Ceramic Artists in studio environments often spend their days creating new ceramic pieces using techniques like wheel-throwing and hand-building, preparing clay, applying glazes, and firing work in the kiln. They may also be responsible for maintaining equipment, mixing custom glazes, and keeping the workspace organized and safe. Many ceramic artists photograph their work for portfolios or social media, interact with clients or gallery owners, and handle administrative tasks such as pricing and inventory. Some roles also involve teaching workshops or collaborating with other artists on community projects. This variety ensures a dynamic workday that blends hands-on creativity with organizational and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ceramic artist?

To thrive as a Ceramic Artist, a strong background in ceramics techniques, including wheel-throwing, hand-building, glazing, and kiln operation, is essential, often supported by formal art or design education. Familiarity with specialized tools, such as potter's wheels, slab rollers, and different types of kilns, as well as knowledge of safety protocols and potentially an art portfolio, are important. Creativity, attention to detail, patience, and the ability to receive and act on feedback are valuable soft skills in this field. These abilities help ensure high-quality artistry, personal safety, and successful collaboration or sales in both independent and team-based studio environments.

How do you become a ceramic artist?

To become a ceramic artist, one typically gains skills through formal education such as a degree in fine arts or ceramics, or through apprenticeships and self-study. Developing proficiency with pottery tools, glazing techniques, and kiln operation is essential, along with building a portfolio and gaining experience in studios or galleries.

How much money does a ceramic artist make?

The average salary for a ceramic artist varies depending on experience, location, and whether they work independently or for a studio. Typically, ceramic artists earn between $25,000 and $60,000 annually, with skilled artists or those selling their work directly often earning more. Many also supplement income through teaching or selling at markets and galleries.

What careers are in ceramics?

Careers in ceramics include ceramic artist, pottery maker, sculptor, and ceramic technician. These roles often involve working in studios, galleries, or manufacturing settings, and may require skills in hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing, and firing techniques.

What are popular job titles related to Ceramic Artist jobs in Tennessee?

For Ceramic Artist jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Ceramic Artist jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Ceramic Artist job openings:

Infographic showing various Ceramic Artist job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,987 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Adjunct Instructor of Art & Design (Ceramics)

CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY

Lebanon, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Adjunct Instructor of Art & Design (Ceramics)

In the Education, Arts and Humanities Department

Onsite Equipment (Lawlor House): 9 potter’s wheels (8 of which are electric,) slab roller, grinder, numerous work tables, wedging tables, hand tools, 3 electric kilns.  Instructor oversees the safe operation of specialized ceramic equipment

Required knowledge of ceramic process:

-  hand-building, wheelwork and sculpture technique

-  Surface treatments: slip-decorating, texturing/carving/piercing, staining, underglaze and glazing

-  firing of greenware, glaze-firing

-  mixing glazes, slips and color clay

-  recycling clays, slips and glaze materials

Has knowledge of traditional historical precedent and contemporary thinking and practice

Is responsible for classroom management/maintenance, studio operations and ordering supplies

Loads, sets and unloads kilns ensuring that student work is fired in a timely manner. Educates students on proper glazing procedures including application and safety.

  • Meet College and department deadlines for attendance keeping and evaluate student work in a timely manner including submitting final grades on time.
  • Complete mandatory employee training as required by the College.
  • Follow Cumberland University policies and procedures.
  • Revise/update curriculum as needed.

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for Cumberland University. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.

Due to the age of the Lawlor House handicap access is limited.