Ceramics Studio Manager at Minot State University, Minot, ND
Posted on August 15, 2026
The Department of Art at Minot State University invites applications for a ceramics studio manager. The successful candidate must have current and significant experience with studio processes, materials, and technology and a commitment to maintaining an open, accessible and safe learning environment.
This is a part-time staff position in Art. The selected candidate will be responsible for supervising, maintaining, and ensuring safe use of the Ceramic studios of Minot State University.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Ensure clean and efficient operations, consistent materials and supplies, studio safety, and maintenance of studio facilities and equipment. This includes kiln firings, clay recycling, and general studio cleaning.
- Maintain and communicate all safety protocols for the ceramics studio.
- Collaborate with teaching faculty to maintain a functional studio space that provides students with a positive learning environment and order raw materials and supplies to support all courses.
SECONDARY FUNCTIONS:
- Provide technical and operational support to Ceramic Program courses and students.
- Collaborate with fellow colleagues in art to support a robust art program.
- Work within a pre-determined operating budget.
- Attend department meetings when requested.
JOB SCOPE:
This position is primarily responsible for supervising, maintaining, and ensuring safe use of the Minot State University Ceramics Studios.
SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITY:
Position has the option of hiring student workers to assist in the management of the ceramics studio. Student workers need regular direction and feedback on their performance, but can work independently once hired and trained.
Qualifications
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
BA or BFA, or equivalent professional experience required. Prior ceramics experience required. The successful candidate will possess demonstrated proficiency with the following: functional and sculptural ceramics, wheel-throwing, hand-building, glazing, and electric and gas firings.
PREFFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES & BEHAVIORS:
The successful candidate will possess demonstrated proficiency with the following:
- Functional and sculptural ceramics, wheel-throwing, hand-building, glazing, slip casting, plaster mold making and electric and gas firings. Familiarity with different clays, glazes with different firing ranges – Cone 04-06, Pit Firing, Raku, Low-fire, Majolica, Midrange, and Cone 10 Hi-fire.
- Orders and tracks clay and sculpture material usage.
- Ability to use, maintain, and instruct others in the use of studio equipment, tools, and processes, troubleshoot studio equipment, and to work with MSU Facilities and exterior vendors for specialized repair, upkeep, and purchasing.
- Knowledge of and commitment to health, sustainability, and safety in studio practice and materials use.
- Communicates with students, faculty, staff and the public appropriately.
- Builds on basic learning and carries it from one situation to another.
- Demonstrates critical thinking skills in problem solving and decision-making.
- Asks questions and seeks assistance.
- Takes responsibility to eliminate the source of problems.
- Maintains proper appearance and personal conduct for the employee’s particular job.
- Uses effective communication skills taking into consideration body language, listening, paraphrasing, and questions.
- Demonstrates ability to work in a team environment.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Ceramics studio includes hand build and wheel thrown workspaces, multiple ceramics wheels, tools, glazing area, spray hood, pug mill, clay mixer and multiple kilns. No overtime.
APPLICATIONS:
Please upload your letter of intent and most current CV.
We are seeking the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be a person who comes from a less traditional background. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every minimum qualification described or are unsure if your experience could be considered related experience.
Additional Information
Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Statement:
Minot State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origins, disability or other protected characteristic. Women, minorities veterans, individual with disabilities, and members of other underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants are invited to provide information regarding their gender, race and/or ethnicity, veteran’s status and disability status as part of the application process. This information will remain confidential and separate from your application.
