Seasonal Employment

Working closely with Watershed’s Studio Manager, the Studio Coordinator maintains the general appearance and efficient operation of Watershed’s studio and provides a welcoming, accommodating atmosphere for artists-in-residence. During Watershed’s residency season, the job is demanding and fast paced. Work will be performed in indoor and outdoor environments. In the Studio Manager’s absence, the Studio Coordinator is responsible for the safe operation of the studio.  

Responsibilities: 

• Oversee the routine daily operations of the community studio
• Assist with preparation for workshops and educational programs
• Interface with the resident artists and address their studio needs
• Facilitate the organization and oversight of group firings
• Maintain materials inventory and oversee clay production
• Assist with equipment maintenance and general custodial duties
• Implement COVID-19 studio protocols
• Participate in each session orientation for the artists-in-residence
• Collaborate with other staff to clean and prepare the campus facilities before the residential season and afterward in preparation for winter
• Assist with special projects through the summer including tasks related to Watershed’s annual Salad Days event
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications: 

• Possess excellent customer service and communication skills, as well as a friendly, flexible demeanor
• Ability to work independently and as an integral member of a team tackling a diverse range of tasks
• Be highly organized with experience performing detail oriented tasks
• Demonstrated proficiency firing gas and electric kilns and knowledge of safe studio practices and standard clay and glaze chemistry
• Ability to work while standing for long hours, lift up to 50 lbs, and possess a full range of physical mobility including walking, stooping, carrying, reaching, and manual dexterity
• Experience with wood and metal shop fabrication, equipment repair, and forklift operation is preferred

Employment Dates and Compensation: 

Applicants must have a vehicle that they can bring to Watershed and be available to work from May 8 – October 13, 2023. Start date may have some flexibility.  Compensation for the 23 week contract period totals $12,139.40, which includes $10,019.40 payable on a biweekly basis, as well as lodging for the contract period (single occupancy cabin, shared bath), and meals during residency season collectively valued at $2,120.  In addition, each staff member receives studio space, materials, and kiln firings. 

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

Seasonal staff members are essential to the operation of the Watershed residency program and play an integral part of the Watershed team. While each staff position has specific responsibilities and duties, a strong emphasis is placed on teamwork. Friendliness, politeness, and interpersonal communication skills are vital to working effectively in an environment that is often demanding. Staff are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times and to contribute to the general upkeep and appearance of the facilities. The focus is to provide an exceptional experience for the resident artists.

Seasonal staff work a full-time weekly schedule, along with additional hours during events. Evening and weekend hours will be required. During their time at Watershed, seasonal staff members receive housing, meals, a stipend, dedicated studio space, and free materials and kiln firings. Limited time will be available to produce personal artwork.