Ceramics Studio Manager at the American Museum of Ceramic Art, Pomona, CA
Posted on April 28, 2025
The American Museum of Ceramic Art seeks a dynamic candidate to serve as its Ceramics Studio Manager. The Studio Manager is responsible for the overall operation, maintenance, and safety of a 12,000 square-foot ceramic studio, including managing equipment, materials, and personnel.
• Reports to the Executive Director
• 40 hours per week with benefits
• Non-Exempt Employee
The Studio Program includes:
• Studio store selling AMOCA swag, tools, and Laguna Clay products
• 33-36 rental studios, serving approximately 65 artists
• Artists-in-Residence (AIR) program with two 12-month residencies and two 6-month residencies annually
• 10-12 hand-building and wheel-throwing classes (6-week sessions), quarterly
• 2 introductory clay classes, monthly
• Demonstrations and skill-building workshops
• Firing services for artists in the community
• Studio store selling AMOCA swag, tools, and Laguna Clay products
Key Responsibilities
• Foster positive relationships with colleagues, artists, students, and visitors
• Deliver exceptional customer service in person, over the phone, and via email
• Communicate regularly with the studio and museum team regarding studio needs, priorities, scheduling, and marketing
• Oversee all aspects of the Artist-in-Residence program, including the artist selection process, and provide support and guidance to artists during their residency
• Manage inventory needs to ensure seamless studio operations
• Coordinate scheduling, loading, and unloading of gas and electric kilns; production of studio glazes; and maintenance of kilns, tools, and equipment with the Studio Technician
• Oversee studio cleanliness and safety standards
• Prepare materials, set up spaces, and coordinate with instructors and volunteers to support classes, workshops, and public events
• Monitor, prioritize, and implement studio repairs and maintenance
• Coordinate scheduling for K-12 programs with the Education Manager
• Maintain administrative systems: calendar, POS program, timesheets, contracts, class registration, attendance tracking, security, and kiln logs
• Develop and manage adult ceramic programs
• Recruit and train staff
• Represent the studio at community events and build partnerships with other organizations
• Assist with studio budget development, expense tracking, and financial management
• Update studio social media and contribute content and news on studio channels (Facebook, Instagram, Linktree, Mailchimp)
Qualifications, Skills, and Personal Attributes
• Possess an appropriate undergraduate degree or equivalent professional experience in ceramics or related areas
• At least 2-3 years of working in the field
• Knowledge of kiln firing processes (gas, electric, salt, soda), glaze chemistry, and materials handling
• Ability to lift 60 lbs. and perform physical labor, including climbing ladders and moving heavy objects
• Excellent organizational and computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office, Gmail, and Google Calendar
• A valid driver’s license
• Working knowledge of Spanish is helpful
• The ability to drive a forklift is helpful
• Ability to work as part of a team, work with interruptions, and adapt to changing priorities
Working Conditions
The manager will work in general office and ceramic studio conditions, with some participation in museum activities. Responsibilities will require evening and weekend hours consistent with the studio and museum’s schedule of events and activities.
The position involves a significant amount of contact with museum staff, volunteers, donors, and the public, which may be of a sensitive or confidential nature. Discretion and sound judgment are essential. The manager must be able to relate well to individuals from various backgrounds and positively represent the museum in these relationships.
Studio work involves exposure to clay and glaze materials, kiln heat, and occasionally using power tools. Must follow all safety guidelines and be willing and able to clean and maintain studio spaces regularly.
Compensation
• $62,000 with paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation days.
• 50% of the health insurance premium is covered.
• An annual stipend is provided to attend NCECA.
• Teaching opportunities at AMOCA offer additional compensation opportunities.
AMOCA is an equal-opportunity employer. Please send a letter of interest and resume to: bgerstein@amoca.org. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Preferred start date is July 7, 2025.
