Ceramic Assistant - Contractor

Ceramic assistant in a dynamic production studio. Description Ceramic Assistant Contractor Employment Type: Independent Contractor (approx. 16 - 24 hrs/week) Work Schedule: Temporary work assignment, schedule is determined on an as-needed basis every week COMPENSATION: $30 / hr LOCATION: Downtown LA REQUIREMENTS: At least three years of clay experience in a studio environment. About Us:BZIPPY is an established company specializing in the production of ceramic side tables, planters, and vases dedicated to delivering exceptional products and services to our interior design, retail, and consumer clients. Contract Role Overview: Essential Duties: The essential duties outlined below form the core functions of the Ceramic Assistant and provide an overview of the scope of the position and the primary work to be performed. Please note that the actual duties to be performed will be determined by the production needs of the studio as directed by the Creative Director. PREFABRICATION 40% • Assist the studio in the beginning stages of fabrication of all production ceramics/art including: • Using the pugmill to mix clay and extrude • Rolling out slabs • Executing hump & slump molds using soft slabs • Extruding clay and prepping extrusions • Carry out the drying process of all slabs, molds, extrusions, and storage • Maintain all slabs and molds to prevent drying • Maintain the facility at optimal levels • Maintain all Google sheet prefabrication processes • Monitor inventory levels regarding the production of all prefabrication items (hump molds, slabs, plastic / wood molds) FABRICATION 20% - Shared with BZ • Oversee daily fabrication needs in processes and efficiency, such as checking that the pieces that are being made have the correct dimensions and silhouettes in consultation with the manuals. • On an ongoing basis, oversee the fabrication and repairs of table top wares such as assembling production / art ceramics • Update the completion of the production schedule, drying racks and communicate with the Creative Director on the next steps for greenware as needed KILN DUTIES 10% - Shared with BZ • Follow and maintain kiln-related systems and spreadsheets as directed by Creative Director • Check and move greenware as needed for bisque firings • Load and unloading of ceramic objects (bisque and glaze) under the direction of Creative Director • Maintain the cleanliness of the department • Communicate low inventory levels to department lead GLAZE MIXING DUTIES - as needed • Follow and maintain glaze-related systems and spreadsheets as directed by department lead • Troubleshoot and test problematic glazes with Creative Director • Mix glazes as necessary according to glaze sheet • Maintain glaze inventory levels as needed SHIPPING & RECEIVING DUTIES 30% - Shared with BZ • Wrapping fragile ceramic furniture, planters, vases, and artwork (small and large) • Packing boxes • Packing crates • Shipping samples • Receiving of all shipments - (materials, supplies, fixtures, Amazon, etc.) PHYSICAL DEMANDS: • Must be able to push, pull, bend, stoop, squat, turn from front to back, turn from side to side, reach above shoulder level, and lift and carry up to 50 pounds • Must be able to sit, stand, and assume a variety of positions for extended periods of time • Must be able to work for extended periods of time with clay products and lift, carry, walk on, manipulate with hands and feet, and perform a wide-variety of physically intensive techniques and procedures on a continuous and daily basis • Must be able to work in a studio environment with cement floors and within limited fabrication spaces when production activities are in full swing. • Must be able to work in a warehouse environment with no A/C but plenty of fans, ventilation, cooling devices. • Must be able to drive own vehicle which is in good working condition, have a good driving record, and meet the minimum requirements for vehicle insurance in California Additional Duties and Responsibilities: • Maintain a tidy, clean, safe, and professional personal workspace and studio environment • Work with others and maintain harmonious and collaborative relationships with individuals working within the studio • Communicate effectively, with tact, respect, and clearly demonstrate professional boundaries at all times • Meet and greet individuals that visit and/or contact the studio with a warm welcome and professional assistance • Demonstrate a keen eye and attention to detail when juggling multiple tasks • Maintain daily awareness of the needs within the studio and effectively communicate those needs to the Creative Director • Demonstrate the ability and willingness to receive, follow and support the needs and requests of the Creative Director at all times • Be willing to provide services during scheduled hours of operation which are typically Monday through Friday from 9am to 5:30pm • Maintain strict, continuous, and complete confidentiality at all times regarding any and all matters within the studio • Have respect, admiration, and pride for the work done in the studio • Ability to communicate with others and face potential conflict with empathy and understanding • Ability to embody mistakes without blaming others • Ability to embrace and provide feedback • Other duties as assigned Salary $25 - $30 per hour