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Ceramics Studio Manager and Instructor (Part-Time)

$35.00 per hour for studio work

$50.00 per hour for instruction

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’s Sirovich Center for Balanced Living makes aging in New York City easier and fun! Membership is free for those aged 60 and up, offering unlimited access to our programs and resources. We provide nutritious meals five days a week and a variety of classes and activities that engage both mind and body. We also help members maintain a healthy lifestyle and offer one-on-one social services. For over 130 years, Educational Alliance has been a constant for Lower Manhattan residents. The Sirovich Center, part of our Older Adult Services (OAS) division, supports nearly 10,000 older New Yorkers annually.

We are seeking a part-time Ceramic Studio Manager and Instructor to oversee studio operations, procedural systems, inventory management, member registration and instruction for the Ceramics Studio. The Ceramic Studio Manager will work collaboratively with the Sirovich Ceramics Team including instructors, studio managers, volunteers, and Sirovich faculty and staff to ensure a safe, organized and engaging learning environment. The Ceramic Studio Manager will also collaborate with internal and external community partners to support programming, outreach, and engagement opportunities that highlight the work of our members and promote the ceramics program.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Administrative and Member Support

+ Lead the member registration process each term; maintain accurate class rosters, attendance records, and waitlists (both digital and paper).

+ Communicate with members regarding registration, studio closures, class updates, and work pick-up schedules; respond promptly to email inquiries.

+ Assist in vetting, training, and supervising volunteers who support studio operations.

+ Promote and model sustainable art practices that minimize environmental impact and encourage mindful use of materials.

+ Collaborate with the ceramics team to plan and execute studio sales events.

+ Work with the ceramics team to maintain and refresh window and lobby displays at both Sirovich and 14Y; ensure items are priced and sales transactions are handled accurately.

+ Support internal and external community engagement initiatives that highlight student work and showcase the ceramics program.

Studio Maintenance and Operations

+ Collaborate with team members to ensure the ceramics studio remains clean, organized, and well-maintained on a weekly basis.

+ Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure supplies are properly stocked and stored.

+ Monitor the condition of all studio equipment including pottery wheels, kilns, and shelving and report maintenance needs promptly.

+ Manage member shelving and storage assignments; coordinate packing, storage, and return of work during term breaks.

+ Facilitate weekly kiln firings, including loading, unloading, and grouping bisque and glazed work; return finished pieces to members.

+ Participate in weekly glaze-making and ensure glaze materials are properly labeled and maintained.

+ Lift and move studio materials as needed (e.g., boxes of clay up to 50 lbs).

Instruction

+ Technique: Teach a range of clay techniques to help students create functional and sculptural forms such as bowls, cups, mugs, plates, and vases. Demonstrate proficiency in hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing, and decorative surface methods.

+ Pedagogy: Provide individualized and group instruction for students of all skill levels. Conduct demonstrations and foster a student-centered, inclusive learning environment that encourages exploration and creativity.

+ Curriculum: Design and lead ongoing and specialty ceramics courses (beginner through intermediate) that promote technical skill development and creative expression.

+ Communication: Maintain open, positive, and respectful communication with students, studio staff, volunteers, and faculty. Build a supportive learning community by sharing program updates and responding to student inquiries in a timely manner (via email and in person).

+ Materials & Equipment: Support daily studio operations, including clay distribution and recycling, tool organization, and general studio upkeep.

+ Safety: Enforce all safety procedures as outlined in the Educational Alliance Ceramics Studio at Sirovich Student Handbook and model best practices for studio safety and cleanliness

Other Responsibilities

+ Participate in regular ceramics team meetings.

+ Attend check-ins with the Artistic Director and Senior Director.

+ Perform other related duties as assigned to ensure the success and sustainability of the ceramics program.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

+ Minimum 2–3 years of experience managing a ceramics or community art studio, including kiln operation and glaze formulation

+ Proven instructional experience teaching ceramics (hand-building and wheel-throwing) to learners of diverse skill levels.

+ Strong organizational and administrative skills, including recordkeeping, scheduling, and inventory management.

+ Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; able to foster a supportive, inclusive, and respectful studio environment.

+ Demonstrated commitment to safety, sustainability, and equitable access to the arts.

+ Ability to work during the daytime

Preferred:

+ Experience working in community-based, senior, or educational arts settings.

+ Knowledge of kiln maintenance and basic equipment troubleshooting.

+ Familiarity with environmentally sustainable practices in ceramics production.

+ Experience with Microsoft Office

+ Ability to work collaboratively as part of a small, creative team while also taking initiative independently.

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER

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.

Educational Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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