1

Ceramic Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Repairs, maintains, rebuilds, and fabricates equipment used in ceramic tile production, including kilns, kiln cars, refractory components, pug mills, mixers, presses, conveyors, spray guns, glaze ...

New

Maintenance Technician

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$23 - $33/hr

Repairs, maintains, rebuilds, and fabricates equipment used in ceramic tile production, including kilns, kiln cars, refractory components, pug mills, mixers, presses, conveyors, spray guns, glaze ...

New

Maintenance Technician

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$23 - $33/hr

Repairs, maintains, rebuilds, and fabricates equipment used in ceramic tile production, including kilns, kiln cars, refractory components, pug mills, mixers, presses, conveyors, spray guns, glaze ...

New

Operator 2

Vancouver, WA ยท On-site

$17 - $23/hr

With nearly 80,000 employees worldwide, Kyocera is a global leader in advanced ceramic technologies used in aerospace, automotive, medical, and semiconductor industries. Our materials power ...

Operator 2

Vancouver, WA ยท On-site

$17 - $23/hr

With nearly 80,000 employees worldwide, Kyocera is a global leader in advanced ceramic technologies used in aerospace, automotive, medical, and semiconductor industries. Our materials power ...

Operator 2

Vancouver, WA ยท On-site

$17 - $23/hr

With nearly 80,000 employees worldwide, Kyocera is a global leader in advanced ceramic technologies used in aerospace, automotive, medical, and semiconductor industries. Our materials power ...

With nearly 80,000 employees worldwide, Kyocera is a global leader in advanced ceramic technologies used in aerospace, automotive, medical, and semiconductor industries. Our materials power ...

With nearly 80,000 employees worldwide, Kyocera is a global leader in advanced ceramic technologies used in aerospace, automotive, medical, and semiconductor industries. Our materials power ...

CNC Programmer

Hillsboro, OR

$28.75 - $39.50/hr

Job Title CNC Programmer Responsible for writing and revising CNC programs for a variety of multi-axis CNC machinery, both mills and lathes, in the production of technical ceramic products. Roles ...

Job Title CNC Programmer Responsible for writing and revising CNC programs for a variety of multi-axis CNC machinery, both mills and lathes, in the production of technical ceramic products. Roles ...

CNC Programmer

Hillsboro, OR ยท On-site

$28.75 - $39.50/hr

Job Title CNC Programmer Responsible for writing and revising CNC programs for a variety of multi-axis CNC machinery, both mills and lathes, in the production of technical ceramic products. Roles ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Ceramic information

See Portland, OR salary details

$5

$25

$46

How much do ceramic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for ceramic in Portland, OR is $25.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $28.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are ceramics and what do ceramicists do?

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 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 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 can I do with a ceramics degree?

A ceramics degree prepares individuals for careers as ceramic artists, studio potters, or ceramic technicians. Graduates can work in art studios, manufacturing, or education, often utilizing skills in design, glazing, and kiln operation. Additional certifications or experience with specific tools may enhance employment opportunities.

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 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.

How to get a career in ceramics?

To pursue a career in ceramics, individuals typically gain skills through formal education such as art or ceramic design programs, apprenticeships, or self-study. Building a portfolio of work, gaining experience in studios or galleries, and developing proficiency with tools like pottery wheels and kilns are important steps. Some roles may require knowledge of glazing, firing techniques, and safety standards in a studio environment.

How much does a pottery job pay?

Pottery jobs, including ceramic artists and studio workers, typically pay between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Salaries can vary widely, with professional ceramicists or those selling their work independently earning more through commissions and sales.
What are the most commonly searched types of Ceramic jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Ceramic jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Ceramic jobs in Portland, OR? For Ceramic jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ceramic jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Ceramic jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Ceramic jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Ceramic job openings:
Infographic showing various Ceramic job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 22% Contract, and 21% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,354 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Operator | Swing Shift

Verstela

Hillsboro, OR โ€ข On-site

$21.22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Exciting opportunity to work as a Production Operator with a leading manufacturer in Hillsboro.
 
This is a full-time, temp-to-hire role with a company that produces ceramic parts for companies worldwide. They support a variety of industries such as aerospace, semiconductor, medical and electronics. 
 
This is a great opportunity to work with a company that values their employees and wants them to be successful.
 
In this role, you'll read blueprints and use tools to shape the ceramic parts. You will be using measurement tools to inspect the finished parts to ensure they meet quality expectations.  
 
They have a lot of different career paths that can take you in whatever direction you like!
 
Production Operator Responsibilities:
  1. Run machine to shave down parts to size
  2. Follow and interpret blueprints
  3. Use calipers and micrometers to inspect parts
Production Operator Requirements:
  1. ITAR Certification - Must be able to provide one of the following documents
    1. US Birth Certificate
    2. US Passport
    3. Permanent Resident Card
  2. Minimum 1 year of previous manufacturing experience
  3. Ability to read and interpret blueprints
  4. Ability to regularly lift up to 50lbs with or without accommodation
Schedule: Monday - Friday 3:00pm-11:30pm (Must be able to train on day shift for approximately 2 weeks)  
 
Pay: $21.22 - $25.00/hour (plus $2.50 shift differential)
 
Benefits offered by Verstela to employees on temp-to-hire assignments:
  1. Medical, Dental, Vision
  2. Virtual Care
  3. Life, Critical illness, Accident, Long and Short-Term Disability Insurance
  4. Identity Theft Protection
  5. 401(K) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
  6. 6 Paid Holidays
Location: Hillsboro, OR
Located off the Orenco Station MAX line.

If you're interested in learning more about this  Production Operator position, apply online or call us at 503-290-0039 to speak to someone immediately!