Studio Assistant Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Educational Alliance brings together and partners with diverse communities in Lower Manhattan, offering individuals and families high-quality, multi-generational programs and services that enhance their well-being and socioeconomic opportunities. We are a place where everyone is welcome and where progress is powered one relationship at a time. We are proud of our legacy as a Jewish organization and we provide high-quality, transformational services and programs to all New Yorkers through our network of community centers on Manhattan’s Lower East Side and East Village. As we have for 130 years, we offer best-in-class programming–now across 15 sites—focusing on a mix of education, health and wellness, arts and culture, and civic engagement.

Educational Alliance Art School at Many Cantor Center is one of New York City’s premier community art schools, offering high-quality instruction in the visual arts. For over a century, EA Art School has provided opportunities for creative expression, skill acquisition, and art appreciation for New Yorkers. We are committed to serving the greatest diversity of students, out of our belief that everyone, regardless of age, ethnicity, or socio-economic status, should have the opportunity for self-expression and lifelong learning.

We are seeking a part-time Ceramics Studio Technician to assist with the day-to-day maintenance and operations of the ceramics studio at Educational Alliance Art School. The Ceramic Studio Technician will play a key role in ensuring that all studio processes- including clay reclaiming, glaze mixing, kiln loading and firing, and general equipment care- are all carried out safely, efficiently, timely and to the standards set by the Leadership Team.

Applicants must submit a CV with their application.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Studio Maintenance and Operations

• Load, fire, and unload electric and gas kilns safely and according to firing schedules.

• Clean and maintain kilns, tools, and studio equipment.

• Sieve glazes, adjust specific gravity, and mix engobes and slips.

• Assist with glaze making and eventually carry out glaze production independently.

• Test glazes, record results, and maintain material data sheets.

• Reclaim clay, including homogenizing and pugging recycled materials.

• Maintain general studio cleanliness and support a safe working environment.

Studio Support and Collaboration

• Assist the Ceramics Education Manager with planning and organizing studio technician workflows.

• Monitor materials and inventory; communicate supply needs.

• Support studio sustainability efforts and safe materials practices.

• Support ceramics classes, apprentice program, workshops, and events as needed.

• Engage respectfully with students, staff, and community members in the studio environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 4+ years of hands-on ceramics experience required

• At least 1 year of technical or studio technician experience required

• Demonstrated knowledge of kiln operation, glaze chemistry, and studio safety protocols.

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Knowledge of how to operate a pug mill, pottery wheel, slab roller, and extruder.

• Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with a diverse group of instructors and colleagues

• Ability to work some evenings and weekends

• Familiarity with community art school or shared studio environments.

• Excellent attention to detail, organization, and independent time management.

Limitations and Disclaimers

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.

EEO Info

Educational Alliance is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, marital status, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

For further information about Educational Alliance, please visit https://edalliance.org