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Ceramics Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ceramics Instructor

Wilmette, IL · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

The Ceramics Instructor will be responsible for developing an interest in and the ability for creative expression in visual terms in each student. The Art Instructor will use skills and techniques of ...

New

Tutor- Ceramics Harold Washington College Student Success is our #1 Priority! Harold Washington ... Establishes liaison with the instructor and works under the instructor's direction to assist the ...

Tutor- Ceramics Harold Washington College Student Success is our #1 Priority! Harold Washington ... Establishes liaison with the instructor and works under the instructor's direction to assist the ...

Ceramics Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$24

$37

How much do ceramics instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for ceramics instructor in Chicago, IL is $24.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a ceramics instructor do?

A Ceramics Instructor teaches students how to create objects from clay, including techniques such as hand-building, wheel throwing, glazing, and firing. They guide students of various skill levels, from beginners to advanced, in both artistic expression and technical skills. Instructors also ensure safety in the studio, maintain equipment, and often develop lesson plans or organize exhibitions of student work. Their goal is to foster creativity while helping students master the fundamentals of ceramics.

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

To thrive as a Ceramics Instructor, you typically need a strong background in ceramics or fine arts, with formal education such as a bachelor's degree in art or a related field and demonstrated proficiency in pottery techniques. Familiarity with studio equipment like kilns, pottery wheels, and glaze-mixing systems, as well as basic safety certifications, is often required. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to inspire creativity are vital soft skills that help engage and motivate students. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, effective instruction and foster a supportive learning environment for artistic growth.

What are the typical challenges a ceramics instructor faces when managing a classroom with varying skill levels?

As a Ceramics Instructor, one common challenge is accommodating students with a wide range of experience, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. Balancing instruction so that all students feel engaged can require careful lesson planning and individualized feedback. Instructors often incorporate demonstrations, open studio time, and tailored projects to address diverse needs. Additionally, fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere helps students learn from one another, creating a positive and productive classroom environment.

What is the difference between Ceramics Instructor vs Art Teacher?

AspectCeramics InstructorArt Teacher
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in ceramics, art education, or related field; certifications may varyRequires a degree in art education or related field; state certification often needed
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, art schools, workshops, studiosPublic or private schools, community centers, art programs
Industry UsageSpecializes in ceramics and pottery techniquesTeaches various art forms, including ceramics, drawing, painting, and sculpture

While both roles involve teaching art, a Ceramics Instructor focuses specifically on ceramics and pottery techniques, often in specialized settings. An Art Teacher typically covers a broader range of art disciplines within educational institutions. The choice depends on your expertise and career focus in the arts.

What are popular job titles related to Ceramics Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Ceramics Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ceramics Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,952 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Ceramics Instructor

WILMETTE PARK DISTRICT

Wilmette, IL • On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

JOB SUMMARY: The Ceramics Instructor will be responsible for developing an interest in and the ability for creative expression in visual terms in each student. The Art Instructor will use skills and techniques of artistic expression, consistent with Park District guidelines, to develop aesthetic understandings and appreciation to discover and develop talents in the field of art.

POSITION DETAILS:

  • 1 Ceramics Instructor

  • Wednesday and Thursday afternoon/evening classes

  • Opportunity for additional classes in the future

  • 2-3 Substitute Ceramics Instructors

  • Flexible availability for intermittent class coverage

  • Classes may run Monday through Sunday between 8:45 AM and 9:00 PM

  • Future opportunities may include long-term substitute coverage or regular teaching assignments

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • None

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Responsible for instructing students with enthusiasm, creativity, and sensitivity to student learning styles and abilities

  • Demonstrate techniques in class as a model for students

  • Prepare for classes by planning the curriculum for each session, including choosing materials, creating lesson plans, and preparing sample projects as necessary.

  • Maintain the ability to adapt the curriculum to the needs of students

  • Responsible for sanitizing, cleaning up, and setting up the art studios

  • Responsible for the supervision and safety of the students at all times

  • Maintain close supervision of children, specifically when assisting in programs

  • Obtain updated attendance sheets at the front desk periodically, as recommended by the Recreation Supervisor

  • Take proper attendance and report excessive absences to the Recreation Supervisor

  • Be a positive role model for students

  • Provide parents/guardians feedback regarding students' progress and questions, or forward them to the Recreation Supervisor for further communications

  • Follow directions given by the Recreation Supervisor about classes, securing subs, class management, and facility safety.

  • Complete special tasks in a timely fashion, including but not limited to special event preparation, project design, and execution

  • Attend scheduled art staff meetings.

  • Communicate needs to the Recreation Supervisor, such as communications to patrons, art studio facility updates, material or equipment maintenance or replacement

  • Represent the Park District to parents, students, and guests and conduct themselves with professionalism and courtesy

  • Maintain good working relationships with fellow staff members, community members, and visitors

  • Adhere to the general rules and policies of the Park District

  • Actively uphold and contribute to the Wilmette Park District's Comprehensive and Strategic Plan, including its Guiding Principles and Strategic Priorities.

  • Actively contribute to the Park District's sustainability goals.

SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Actively support the safety program that will effectively control and reduce accidents.

  • Obey the safety rules, regulations, and procedures established by the Wilmette Park District safety program that are pertinent to the activities conducted by the department.

  • Become familiar with and follow safety procedures of the Wilmette Park District, including, but not limited to, fire, severe weather, and evacuation procedures.

  • Promptly report all unsafe actions, practices, or conditions observed to the immediate supervisor or to the Human Resources/Risk Management department.

  • Attend and participate in required safety training

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age

  • Experience teaching students of all ages with a broad range of abilities and backgrounds for a minimum of 3 years

  • Specialized Art techniques preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

  • Applicants should possess a love of art instruction as well as the desire to nurture and shape the lives of young students

  • Appreciation of the developmental and age characteristics of the students in each grade

  • Eagerness to communicate and develop positive bonds with parents/guardians

  • Ability to develop, create, and teach interdisciplinary content

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions 

  • Regularly required to talk and hear, use hands to finger, handle, and feel and reach with hands and arms

  • Regularly required to stand, walk and sit, climb or balance and push/pull objects

  • Frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds

  • Frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl

PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

  • None

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • The work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

  • Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate

HOURS:

Ceramics Instructor

  • Wednesdays and Thursdays, afternoon through evening

Substitute Ceramics Instructors

  • Classes may run Monday through Sunday, 8:45 AM – 9:00 PM

  • Flexible availability for intermittent class coverage