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Ceramic Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pottery Studio Instructor

Campbell, CA · On-site

$35K - $75K/yr

We are seeking a passionate and skilled Studio Pottery Instructor (Full-time or Part-time depending on the season) to lead hands-on ceramic classes for adults, teens, and/or children in a dynamic ...

Ceramic Instructor information

See California salary details

$8

$22

$45

How much do ceramic instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for ceramic instructor in California is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.59 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Ceramic Instructor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ceramic Instructor, you need expertise in ceramics techniques, kiln operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a degree in fine arts or ceramics and teaching experience. Familiarity with various clay bodies, glazes, firing processes, and potentially pottery wheel use is essential, with some roles requiring certification in arts education or workshops in advanced ceramic processes. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to inspire creativity help instructors connect with and guide students of diverse skill levels. These abilities ensure effective instruction, a safe studio environment, and a rewarding creative experience for learners.

How to become a ceramic instructor?

To become a ceramic instructor, typically one needs a strong background in ceramics, often demonstrated by a degree in fine arts or ceramics, along with practical experience in pottery and sculpture. Developing teaching skills, obtaining relevant certifications if required, and gaining experience through workshops or assistant roles can also help qualify for instructor positions. Familiarity with studio equipment and safety procedures is essential for teaching in educational or community settings.

What can I do with a ceramics degree?

A ceramics instructor can work in art schools, community centers, or private studios teaching pottery and ceramic techniques. Graduates can also pursue careers as studio artists, gallery owners, or product designers, often utilizing skills in hand-building, wheel-throwing, and glazing. Additional opportunities include working in museums, art therapy, or developing their own ceramic products for sale.

What is the highest paying art teaching job?

The highest paying art teaching jobs are often at the university level, such as university art professors or department chairs, who can earn six-figure salaries. Private art instructors with specialized skills or those working in affluent areas or for high-end institutions may also command higher wages, especially with advanced degrees and extensive experience.

How much do pottery teachers get paid?

Pottery teachers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the type of institution. On average, they earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, with part-time positions often paying hourly rates around $15 to $25. Certifications in art education and proficiency with pottery techniques can influence earning potential.

What is a Ceramic Instructor job?

A Ceramic Instructor teaches students how to work with clay and ceramics, covering techniques like hand-building, wheel throwing, glazing, and firing. They develop lesson plans, demonstrate methods, and provide feedback to help improve students' skills. Ceramic Instructors may work in schools, community centers, studios, or private workshops. Their role includes maintaining equipment, ensuring safety, and fostering creativity in students of all skill levels.

What are some of the typical daily responsibilities for a Ceramic Instructor?

A Ceramic Instructor’s daily responsibilities often include demonstrating ceramic techniques, supervising students during hands-on practice, and preparing materials such as clay and glazes in advance of classes. Instructors also maintain and operate studio equipment like kilns, ensure all safety procedures are followed, and provide constructive feedback to support individual artistic growth. Additionally, you may assist in planning course curricula, organizing exhibitions of student work, and collaborating with other instructors or arts staff. These varied tasks make the role both dynamic and rewarding for those passionate about teaching ceramics.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ceramic Instructor jobs in California? The most popular types of Ceramic Instructor jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Ceramic Instructor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Ceramic Instructor jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Ceramic Instructor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,528 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
(Part-time Faculty Pool) Ceramics Technology Instructor

(Part-time Faculty Pool) Ceramics Technology Instructor

Monterey Peninsula College

Monterey, CA

$63.80 - $89.55/hr

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

(Part-time Faculty Pool) Ceramics Technology Instructor at Monterey Peninsula College Share on X Print Application Deadline 8/26/2026 11:55 PM Pacific Date Posted 2/27/2026 Contact Recruitment Office 831-646-4016 Number of Openings Not Specified Salary Pay Range 63.80 - 89.55 Per Hour Length of Work Year See Job Description Employment Type Part Time Job Description / Essential Elements: Print Monterey Peninsula College (Part-time Faculty Pool) Ceramics Technology Instructor Salary: $63.80 - $89.55 Hourly Job Type: Part-time Instructor Job Number: 2018-00135 Closing: Location: Monterey Peninsula College and/or Marina Education Center, CA Division: Creative Arts Description Monterey Peninsula College is currently accepting applications to establish a pool for future part-time teaching assignments in this discipline. Monterey Peninsula Community College District is committed to educational equity for all students, as outlined in the https://www.mpc.edu/about-mpc/leadership/board-of-trustees https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/mpc/Board.nsf/files/BJLSXW74D733/$file/12-11-19%20EDMasterPlan%20Board%201st%20Read.pdf https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://get.adobe.com/reader/, https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/mpc/Board.nsf/files/BDAKP5518B99/$file/2019%20MPC%20EEO%20Plandocx.pdf https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://get.adobe.com/reader/, and https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/mpc/Board.nsf/files/BG7ME45A5A6E/$file/09-25-19%20Student%20Equity%20Plan%20Board%20Presentation.pdf https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://get.adobe.com/reader/. We provide students with a rich and dynamic learning experience that embraces differences-emphasizing collaboration, engaging students in and out of the classroom, and encouraging them to realize their goals and become global citizens and socially responsible leaders

When you join our team at Monterey Peninsula College, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, innovative, and equity-focused community that approaches higher education as a matter of social justice requiring broad collaboration among faculty, classified staff, administration, students, and community partners.Monterey Peninsula College is designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and is an affiliate of the statewide Umoja Community of California Community Colleges. Monterey Peninsula College has a diverse student population that is a reflection of the communities it serves.We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of cultural heritages, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, abilities, orientations, and intersections of these identities, and others not yet identified. Therefore, we prioritize applicants who demonstrate they understand the benefits diversity brings to a professional educational community

The successful candidate will be an equity-minded individual dedicated to collaborating with faculty, classified staff, administration, students, and community partners who are also committed to closing equity gaps. An equity-minded individual is a person who already does or has demonstrated the desire to:Hold ourselves accountable as educators for closing equity gaps and engaging in equitable practices; Reframe inequities as a problem of practice and view the elimination of inequities as an individual and collective responsibility; Implement positive race-consciousness and embrace human difference; Reflect on institutional and teaching practices and make them more culturally responsive; and Collaborate with colleagues on equity-related initiatives.Monterey Peninsula College seeks employees who value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, guided by a commitment to helping all students achieve their educational or career goals. All departments value collaboration across disciplines to create inclusive, integrated, and interdisciplinary learning experiences

Example of Duties ASSIGNMENT INFORMATION: ARCE 2, A-D Ceramic Wheel Throwing - Monday & Wednesday from 9am-12:05pm (Spring 2026) ARCE 1, 1A-D Ceramic Handbuilding - Monday & Tuesday from 9am-12:05pm (Spring 2026) Both classes offered at Monterey Peninsula College site. POSITION DEFINITION: Under the supervision of the area Dean and the guidance of the Department, the part-time instructor will provide instruction in accordance with course descriptions, outlines, class schedules, and Governing Board policy; evaluate progress of students concerning educational matters, and perform other instructional related duties as assigned. Instructor may be assigned to the Monterey campus and/or Marina Education Center.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Meet each scheduled class and teach or conduct learning exercises for the entire period. Contact the appropriate division chair or administrator in advance to make arrangements for unavoidable absences. Provide each student at the beginning of the course with written information about the course, to include a full description of the grading system and how the student will be evaluated.

Accurately keep required class records on attendance, withdrawal and grading. Submit when due, all necessary reports such as attendance and grade reports, roll books, and class information sheets, and certify as to their accuracy. Comply with all institutional policies and procedures.

Give careful attention to all bulletins, memorandums and emails from administrative offices. Check faculty mailbox and MPC email frequently. Demonstrate an understanding of, sensitivity to, and appreciation for the diverse academic, socio-economic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation and ethnic backgrounds of community college students and staff.

Qualifications Any bachelor's degree or higher and two years of professional experience OR Any associate degree and six years of professional experience. OR Professional experience is required when the applicant possesses a master's degree. The professional experience required must be directly related to the faculty member's teaching assignment.

OR The equivalent. (https://www.mpc.edu/about-mpc/campus-resources/human-resources/equivalency must be submitted for consideration) AND a sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students. Work Schedule / Supplemental Information During the application process, you will be asked to submit the following items: Cover Letter Resume Transcripts We require unofficial copies showing all undergraduate and graduate coursework

Official copies will be required at the time of hire. Foreign transcripts must be evaluated by the applicant's expense. http://www.mpc.edu/home/showdocument?id=24165 Equivalency Form (optional, based on minimum qualifications) If you do not meet the minimum qualification listed in the job announcement, but you believe you possess minimum qualifications that are equivalent, you will need to complete an https://www.mpc.edu/about-mpc/campus-resources/human-resources/equivalency

Please do not upload any items not listed above (such as letters of recommendation), as they will not be forwarded to the hiring committee. Teaching assignments are part-time and temporary in nature. Assignments are subject to Governing Board approval, adequate enrollment size, and assignment to a contract instructor.

Offer and assignment of employment is subject to verification of all information provided on the employment application, credentials, transcripts, fingerprint check and tuberculosis examination as required. Monterey Peninsula College actively seeks a diverse pool of applicants interested in working in an environment which values flexibility, openness to change, collaboration, respect for others and their points of view, and involvement in College activities, all with the goal of meeting the needs of our diverse student population. The District does not discriminate on the basis of ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, marital status, disability, or sexual orientation in any of its policies, practices, or procedures.

The District is an equal opportunity employer. The policy of the District is to encourage applications from all persons. No person shall be denied employment because of ethnicity or race, color, sex or gender, gender identity, age, religion, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, medical conditions, status as a Vietnam-era veteran, ancestry, or political or organizational affiliation.

To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/6961469 Copyright 2025 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved. https://www.jobelephant.com/ jeid-67ad7ab2bb90c541bb5e6290073f06de Requirements / Qualifications For more information on Requirements/Qualifications, please contact the employer

Comments and Other Information For more information on Comments and Other Information, please contact the employer. CalSTRS Links Not all postings qualify for CalSTRS. Informational Only.

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