Instructional Assistant Ceramics

Under the direction of the Dean of Arts and Humanities, perform specialized and technical duties to assist in the operation and maintenance of a ceramics instructional lab, including monitoring and maintaining instructional labs, storage rooms, and equipment. Assist students in a classroom/lab setting with technical instructions on the safe operation of equipment. Performs other related duties as may be assigned.

• Assists students in the operation and maintenance of a ceramics classroom/lab; performs specialized and technical duties to assure efficient operations; set up labs and equipment for instructors. (E)
• Assists teachers and students in the proper and safe use of a variety of equipment, materials, and supplies in the instructional setting; provides assistance to students as appropriate, assigned, or according to established procedures. (E)
• Assists students in the various steps of each project. (E)
• Prepares instructional materials and equipment for teacher demonstrations and student use as requested, according to approved procedures. (E)
• Maintains ceramics classroom/lab environment and storerooms in a safe, clean, and orderly condition. (E)
• Prepares and tests clays and glazes; fires and maintains kilns; operates and maintains a wide variety of specialized equipment including but not limited to mixers, wheels, and hand and power tools. (E)
• Orders, receives, and stores supplies, materials, and equipment; maintains inventories to assure appropriate quantities are available for instructional use. (E)
• Adjusts, maintains, calibrates, and performs minor repair to equipment; reports major repair needs or arranges for repairs according to established procedures. (E)
• Prepares and maintains various records and reports related to lab operations and activities, including clean‑up of spaces, kiln firing and maintenance, and open lab hours as required. (E)
• Assists in the scheduling of the use of the ceramics lab equipment and supplies. (E)
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Any combination equivalent to:
Associate’s degree in Art or a related field with coursework in art, ceramics, and/or sculpture; and two (2) years practical experience working with ceramics.

• Principles, practices, procedures, and equipment used in various ceramic and sculpture processes and techniques, including clay and glaze chemistry.
• Safety regulations involving materials and equipment used in a ceramics classroom/laboratory.
• Methods and procedures related to handling, storage, use, and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals/glazes.
• DEIA principles, cultural competence, and growth mindset.
• Strategies for engaging and supporting college students in the classroom/lab.
• Principles of communicating and collaborating effectively with diverse students, faculty, staff, and administration.
• Basic record‑keeping techniques.
• District organization, operations, policies, and objectives.
• Basic computer operation.
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.
• Proper methods of storing equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Proper lifting techniques.

• Perform specialized and technical duties to ensure efficient ceramics classroom/laboratory operation.
• Provide information and assistance to students and staff in the ceramics subject area.
• Safely operate, maintain, and demonstrate the use of specialized equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Operate a computer terminal and related software applications.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Work independently with little direction.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
• Meet schedules and timelines.
• Train, supervise, and provide support to a team of student workers.
• Communicate effectively in all methods of communication with diverse populations.
• Work equitably and effectively with current students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds in order to promote equal access to all programs.

Work direction, lead and supervisory responsibilities:
Not applicable – no permanent full‑time staff to supervise.

Instructors, student workers, students, vendors, other…