Job: Ceramic Lab Technician at Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA
Posted on January 30, 2022 – open until filled
Under the direction and supervision of studio art faculty, the Ceramics Lab Technician works cooperatively with administrators, faculty, staff, students and vendors to technically manage and supervise the Burns Ceramics studio. The Lab Technician/Manager works to ensure safe, secure, healthy and well-run facilities for the instructors and students; assists students and instructors; and maintains equipment, glazes and fires kilns as needed.
Position Specific Accountabilities
- Create a safe, functional learning environment for ceramics courses
students by maintaining an appropriate work environment. Oversee accurate studio and materials signage. - Provide assistance to students in completing assigned projects by reinforcing and reviewing technical information and course content. Provide nurturing and supportive environment for students.
- Fire all kilns as needed. Maintain kiln shelves and kiln furniture.
- Oversee the preparation and mixing of studio glazes ensuring an adequate supply at all times. Order and stock raw materials and premixed glazes. Follow safety requirements and follow appropriate safety precautions in the storage, handling and disposing of hazardous materials.
- Manage the recycling of clay.
- Directly manage studio work during assigned periods when faculty member is not present.
- Make recommendations to faculty on the ordering of equipment and supplies and research best practices and new technological innovations in the field.
- Provide updated inventory list of equipment and secure equipment as required.
- Monitor work-study students as required.
- Perform other reasonable duties as assigned.
Loyola Marymount University Expectations
Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university.
Communicate and employ interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct. Ability to establish and maintain collegial working relationships. Demonstration of a commitment to tactful personal interaction.
Requisite Qualifications
Technical expertise in the physical handling of ceramics studio equipment. In-depth knowledge of the handbuilding, throwing and casting ceramic process, command of glazing techniques and understanding the parameters of firing at cones 06, 5, and 10 in oxidation and reduction atmospheres. Knowledge of ceramics history and contemporary practitioners in the field.
Requires ability to work effectively and cooperatively with administrators, faculty, staff, students and vendors, and demonstrated sensitivity to and respect for working with a diverse population. Ability to establish and maintain collegial working relationships.
Strong management and organizational skills. Ability to problem-solve effectively.
Typically a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Incumbent will be expected to continue upgrading knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to keep abreast of changes in technology.
Minimum 3 years related experience. Familiarity with higher education is a plus.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Constantly required to sit, feel, use finger movement, speak clearly, hear conversation, and see near and far. Frequently required to stand and walk. Occasionally required to lift, carry and push up to 50 lbs., stoop, kneel, reach high and low, use depth perception. Requires ability to stand for long periods of time.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work environment is normal.
MENTAL DEMANDS: Mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Frequent calculating, interrupted work, variety of interrelated tasks, sustained concentration, and use of reasoning, judgment, resourcefulness, analytical ability, and ingenuity.
About LMU
Founded in 1911, Loyola Marymount University is a Carnegie classified R2 institution rooted in the Jesuit and Marymount traditions. We are committed to fostering a diverse academic community rich in opportunity for intellectual engagement and real-world experience. We enroll an academically ambitious, multicultural, and socioeconomically diverse student body. We recruit, retain and support a diverse faculty committed to excellence in teaching, research, scholarship and creativity. Our three campuses are rooted in the heart of Los Angeles, a global capital for arts and entertainment, innovation and technology, business and entrepreneurship.
