Studio Manager Job at Maryland Citizens for the Arts in Glen Echo

Glen Echo Pottery seeks a full-time Studio Manager (40 hours a week) to become an integral part of our ceramics community. Located in Glen Echo Park in Glen Echo, Maryland, we are a mid-sized nonprofit pottery school offering year-round classes to over 200 students of all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Our facility is unique, spread across seven buildings with an outdoor kiln yard, which we believe encourages creativity and teamwork. We are committed to hands‑on learning and the joy of working with clay, fostering a community that thrives on collaboration and creativity.

Our ideal candidate brings a balance of technical ceramics knowledge, leadership ability, patience, and organizational strength. They should enjoy working with both clay and people, guiding the studio community while ensuring all operational aspects run seamlessly. We welcome candidates who are comfortable with hands‑on work and bring a collaborative, positive energy to the team. The Studio Manager reports directly to the Executive Director.

Key Responsibilities

• Studio and Kiln OperationsOversee all kiln loading, firing schedules, glaze management, and materials procurement
• Kiln yard and studio maintenance, including hands‑on mechanical work, or coordinate repairs when necessary.
• Manage and train volunteers to support smooth studio operations
• Maintain or develop studio documentation and records for inventory, safety logs, and firing schedules.
• Foster a welcoming and positive atmosphere that encourages creative exploration among all participants.

Safety & Training

• Develop, post, and implement safety protocols for all facilities and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, OSHA standards, and applicable studio documentation.
• Provide training for instructors and students on studio and kiln safety procedures.
• Offer safety supervision and guidance during soda and other specialty firings (e.g., raku, carbon trapping).

Required Skills and Knowledge

• MFA/MA, or 3+ years of experience in a ceramics studio.
• Strong knowledge of glaze chemistry, kiln loading, and materials management.
• Strong mechanical skills for kiln maintenance, repair, and oversight.
• Previous experience with training and leading volunteers or staff.
• Proficiency in computer skills, including Excel and digital inventory systems.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage workflows, materials, and volunteers.
• Strong communication skills and ability to resolve conflicts with professionalism.
• Comprehensive knowledge of health and safety practices for ceramic studios, including OSHA certification (or willingness to obtain within first year of employment)
• Physical ability to lift 50+ lbs, bend, sit, and stand for long periods of time.
• Comfortable working in a campus-like environment with indoor and outdoor spaces, and working in different kinds of weather.
• Comfortable working at heights, including climbing on a roof when needed.

Compensation

This position offers a competitive salary $60,000 along with benefits including retirement, health‑care reimbursement, and paid time off. Work hours are flexible, but there is a requirement for some evenings and weekend availability. All work is to happen on‑site. Opportunity to teach up to two classes for additional income.

If you are excited about working in a dynamic ceramics studio and contributing to a creative community, please send your cover letter and resume to gepottery.resume@gmail.com.