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Ceramic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fireclay Tile

Ceramic Engineer

Aromas, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

As the Ceramic Engineer, you will be an integral part of our talented Innovation team, collaborating to drive strategic initiatives to enhance product durability, expand application suitability, and ...

Ceramic.ai

Infrastructure Engineer (Search)

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

About the Role You'll help build and scale the distributed systems that already make Ceramic.ai fast. Our customers will expect fast response times, and you'll ensure we deliver that consistently ...

Ceramic.ai

Infrastructure Engineer (Search)

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

About the Role You'll help build and scale the distributed systems that already make Ceramic.ai fast. Our customers will expect fast response times, and you'll ensure we deliver that consistently ...

TERI Inc

DSP-3 Ceramic Arts Professional

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Shape Creativity & Empower Lives -- Join TERI as a DSP-3 Ceramics Professional! At TERI, creativity is more than expression-- it's a pathway to independence, confidence, and connection. We are ...

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Ceramic information

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$5

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$43

How much do ceramic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for ceramic in California is $23.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ceramic artist?

Ceramics refers to objects made from clay and other raw materials that are shaped and then fired at high temperatures to achieve desired properties such as hardness and durability. Ceramicists are artists or craftsmen who design, create, and finish these objects, which can include pottery, sculpture, tiles, and decorative pieces. They may work by hand or use tools and machinery, and are often involved in every stage of the process, from preparing materials to glazing and firing the finished product. Ceramicists can work independently as artists or be employed in industries like manufacturing, art education, or restoration.

What are different types of ceramic careers?

Different types of ceramic careers include jobs as a pottery or ceramics instructor, general art teacher, ceramic artist, pottery designer, or ceramic manufacturer. The responsibilities of these positions differ. For example, if you design functional ceramics, such as dinnerware, mugs, or cups, you may work directly with a larger kitchenware designer or develop independent designs and sell your work to a producer. In an instructor role, you teach students the fundamentals and advanced skills of pottery in a school or community learning setting. As a potter or ceramic artist, you design sculptures or artistic pieces for show or sale in galleries or public spaces.

What are some common challenges ceramic artists face when working in a studio environment?

Ceramic artists often encounter challenges such as managing kiln schedules, dealing with material inconsistencies, and maintaining a clean workspace to avoid cross-contamination of glazes and clays. Collaboration and communication with studio mates are also vital, as shared equipment and resources require respectful coordination. Additionally, mastering time management for drying, firing, and finishing pieces is crucial to ensure high-quality results and meet deadlines, especially when working on commissions or participating in exhibitions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ceramic artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ceramic Artist, you need a solid understanding of ceramic materials, design principles, and various hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques, often gained through formal art education or apprenticeships. Familiarity with kilns, glazing processes, and ceramic studio equipment is essential, along with knowledge of safety protocols. Creativity, attention to detail, and perseverance are important soft skills that help artists develop unique works and overcome technical challenges. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality ceramics, maintaining safety, and building a successful artistic career.

What is the difference between Ceramic vs Glazier?

AspectCeramicGlazier
Primary WorkCreating and working with ceramic materials, including pottery and tilesInstalling and repairing glass in windows, doors, and buildings
Skills & CertificationsCeramic arts, craftsmanship, sometimes technical or artistic certificationsGlazing, glass installation, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentArt studios, manufacturing facilities, workshopsConstruction sites, commercial and residential buildings
Industry UsageArts, manufacturing, constructionConstruction, renovation, architectural projects

While both roles involve working with materials related to surfaces, Ceramic professionals focus on creating and designing with ceramic materials, whereas Glaziers specialize in installing and repairing glass. The skills, certifications, and work environments differ, reflecting their distinct industry roles.

What can I do with a ceramic degree?

A ceramic degree prepares individuals for careers in ceramics production, studio art, or industrial design, involving skills in pottery, sculpture, and material science. Job options include ceramic artist, studio technician, or product designer, often requiring knowledge of firing techniques and material properties. Opportunities exist in galleries, manufacturing, or teaching environments.

What jobs can you get with ceramic?

Jobs with a focus on ceramics include ceramic artist, pottery maker, ceramic technician, and ceramic engineer. These roles often require skills in working with clay, glazes, and kiln operation, and may involve working in studios, manufacturing facilities, or research environments.
More about Ceramic jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Ceramic jobs in California?

The most popular types of Ceramic jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Ceramic jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Ceramic jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Ceramic jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Ceramic jobs?

Cities in California with the most Ceramic job openings:

Ceramic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ceramic job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,651 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Ceramic Engineer

Aromas, CA • On-site

Fireclay Tile
Specialized Design Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Fireclay Tileexternal

$110K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Fireclay Tile is here to revolutionize the tile and design industry. By implementing an innovative digital platform paired with unmatched artisan-crafted products and client service, we've made it easier than ever to specify and purchase beautiful, sustainable tile sourced and handcrafted in the US. Our tireless commitment to innovation, transparency, and sustainability has not gone unrecognized. We aim to grow 25-35% annually and are the first tile company recognized as a B Corp for how we use Business as a Force for Good. With an innovative product, an ambitious team, and an inspiring mission, we're changing the way you think about tile. If you're searching for product engineer jobs, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact. Come join the makers who support the dreamers!
Serving as a Fireclay Tile Brand Ambassador, representing our core values including:
Kindness • Honesty • Tread Lightly on the Earth • Measure Twice, Cut Once • Ganas (Desire)
Accountable to the B Corp standards, we take care of our People and our Planet while turning a Profit.
The Team You'll Work With ...
As the Ceramic Engineer, you will be an integral part of our talented Innovation team, collaborating to drive strategic initiatives to enhance product durability, expand application suitability, and introduce innovative solutions that position Fireclay Tile as a leader in the wider market. You will be responsible for defining and elevating the performance standards of Fireclay Tile's Original Ceramic product line, playing a key role in continuous benchmarking against market, proactive material research for supply chain resilience and cost optimization, and the development of new clay bodies and glazes to meet evolving market demands and design trends. This role offers the opportunity to set the quality benchmarks against which all Fireclay products will be measured. Reporting to the Director of Manufacturing, this position is located in Aromas, Ca, our Factory Headquarters. Our culture thrives on professional development, ongoing training, and opportunities for growth within the organization. This is a salary position and pays $110k-$130k (Depending on Experience).
Meet the Hiring Manager, Nirmal Ravichandran!
What You'll Achieve ...
  • Product Standard Enhancement: Lead research and development efforts to improve existing product characteristics to meet or exceed advanced industry standards for extruded red clay body tile, specifically focusing on:
    • Freeze-Thaw Resistance: Develop formulations and firing protocols to achieve full frost-proof classification (e.g., ASTM C1026 equivalent to our Brick product) for broader outdoor applicability.
    • Crazing Elimination/Control: Innovate glaze and body compositions to significantly reduce or eliminate undesirable crazing across a wider range of finishes, while preserving aesthetic appeal.
    • Dimensional Stability: Improve planarity and reduce size variation (beyond the current 1/16" to 1/8" variance) to meet stringent industry standards for rectified or highly consistent tile, enhancing ease of installation and aesthetic precision.
  • Raw Material Sourcing & Cost Optimization: Proactively identify and evaluate alternative raw materials to mitigate supply chain risks, improve material purity, and achieve cost efficiencies without compromising product integrity or sustainability commitments (e.g., utilizing recycled content, regional sourcing).
  • New Product & Glaze Development: Formulate novel clay bodies and glazes to expand Fireclay Tile's product offerings, enabling entry into new market segments and applications (e.g., enhanced acid resistance for countertops/pools, improved abrasion resistance).
  • Market Benchmarking & Trend Analysis: Continuously research and benchmark Fireclay's products against emerging market trends to identify opportunities for innovation and competitive differentiation. Analyze consumer feedback and common product shortcomings (e.g., grout staining issues) to inform R&D priorities.
  • Laboratory Leadership: Oversee and direct activities within the Glaze and Material Science Laboratories, guiding experimental product design, analytical testing, and material characterization to support strategic R&D projects.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Production, Marketing, and Sales teams to translate market requirements and aesthetic visions into technical specifications and viable product solutions.
  • Intellectual Property: Contribute to the protection of new formulations and processes through appropriate documentation and intellectual property considerations.
  • Team Leadership & Management: Build and manage a team, including direct oversight of the Ceramic Process Quality Engineer.

What We Look For in You ...
We are looking for someone who is A Strategic Thinker, Innovative and Creative, Market-Aware, and a A Technical Authority. You are excited to set the strategic vision for our product line, innovate new materials and glazes, and position Fireclay Tile as an industry leader in both quality and sustainability and thrive in a collaborative and dynamic environment.
  • Master's or Ph.D. in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in R&D or product development within the ceramic tile or advanced ceramics industry, with a proven track record of successful product innovation.
  • In-depth theoretical and practical knowledge of ceramic raw materials, glaze chemistry, body formulation, and advanced firing techniques.
  • Expertise in the operation and development of firing curves for both roller hearth and periodic kilns, with a focus on achieving specific material properties and aesthetic outcomes.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex ceramic defects (e.g., crazing, warping, firing cracks) and develop robust solutions.
  • Familiarity with relevant ASTM, ANSI, and ISO standards for ceramic tile performance (e.g., freeze-thaw, DCOF, abrasion, chemical resistance).
  • Strong project management skills with the ability to lead multiple strategic initiatives simultaneously.
  • Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
  • A passion for sustainability and alignment with Fireclay Tile's commitment to handcrafted quality and environmental stewardship.

Why Fireclay?
Beyond the role itself, here's what makes Fireclay Tile a special place to work:
  • Our Mission: We are on a mission to do good by crafting products intentionally, collaboratively, and transparently. We are the makers, who support the dreamers.
  • Our Values: We live by Kindness, Honesty, Tread Lightly on the Earth, Measure Twice, Cut Once, and Ganas (Desire).
  • Our Commitment: We are accountable to the B Corp standards, prioritizing People and Planet alongside Profit.
  • Growth and Innovation: We are committed to "25-35% annual growth" and are revolutionizing the tile and design industry.
  • Our Culture: We foster a culture of professional development, ongoing training, and opportunities for growth.
  • Our Benefits: We offer a comprehensive compensation package, including medical, financial, and other benefits including a 4% 401(k) match, FTO (exempt), benefits, sick time, and parental leave, and other perks. Visit Fireclaybenefits.com to view details of our benefits and perks offered.

The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, stock options, and discretionary bonus. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if a teammate receives an offer of employment.
Fireclay provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, Fireclay will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If you need a reasonable accommodation, please let us know by contacting people@fireclaytile.com.

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