Educational Alliance, a 133-year-old New York institution, is a vibrant, dynamic organization serving New Yorkers from all walks of life. Educational Alliance brings together and partners with diverse communities in Lower Manhattan, offering individuals and families high-quality, multi-generational programs and services that enhance their well-being and socio-economic opportunities. The Educational Alliance Art School is one of New York City’s premier community art schools, offering high-quality instruction in the visual arts. Since 1917, the School has provided opportunity for creative expression, skill acquisition, and arts appreciation for New Yorkers of all backgrounds and ages. We are committed to serving the greatest diversity of students, out of our belief that everyone, regardless of age, ethnicity, or socio-economic status, should have the opportunity for self-expression and lifelong learning.

JOB PURPOSE

The Ceramic Arts Instructor teaches handbuilding and/or wheel throwing techniques to diverse students in mixed-level classes. The instructor provides high quality, individualized, and group instruction to support students with beginning, intermediate and advanced skills. The instructor also contributes to a studio that is a collegial and creative gathering space for potters of all skill levels and serves as an inspiring presence to students who are developing their craft.

SCOPE OF INFLUENCE

• Partners with internal and external (on occasion) customers

• Collaborates with EA Art School faculty and staff

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

Instruction (90%)

• Technique: Ability to teach handbuilding and/or wheel throwing techniques to help students make bowls, cups, mugs, plates, vases, other vessel forms, and sculptural forms. Expert in teaching on the wheel including the basics of wedging, centering, throwing a unique form and trimming. Expert in teaching handbuilding techniques such as pinch, coil and slab construction to create functional and sculptural ceramics. Expert in glazing and decorative surface area techniques

• Bilingual Instruction: Ability to teach in English and Spanish or English and Mandarin.

• Communication: Positive communications with Art School students and faculty to support a growing, vibrant, community-based art school.

• Pedagogy: Experienced in providing individualized and group instruction to meet the needs of students with various skill levels. Experienced with providing demos to teach skills. Ability to support student-centered learning.

• Curriculum: Experience designing and teaching 10-week courses to ensure student success.

• Materials and Equipment: Experienced working with ceramics studio materials and equipment including pug mill, slab roller, and kiln.

• Safety: Deep knowledge of ceramic studio safety protocols and procedures. Ensure all students follow the policies in the Educational Alliance Art School at Manny Cantor Center Ceramic Studio Student Handbook.

• Sustainability: Understands and teaches best practices to support sustainable art practices with the goal of limiting negative impact on people and the environment.

• Studio Maintenance: Maintain organization and cleanliness of the studio and provide status updates to supervisor. Complete all basic tasks agreed upon by faculty and/or requested by supervisor on an as needed basis.

Other (10%)

• Attend 1 – 2 Art School faculty meetings per term

• Meet 1:1 with supervisor on as needed basis

• Occasionally help with studio operations and maintenance beyond class preparation and clean-up

• Develop professional relationships with co-workers, students and Art School guests

• Perform other duties as assigned

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Bilingual in English and Mandarin or English and Spanish

• Active ceramics artist and a willingness to share work with students

• Demonstrated connections to the larger NYC ceramic arts community

• Experience teaching adults and/or children in ceramic arts (2 years minimum)

• Self-motivated, highly efficient, and able to problem solve

• Proactive, hands-on approach, as well as a professional work ethic

• Ability to work autonomously

• Ability to work morning, evening and weekend hours as class schedule requires

• Team player and a passion to build relationships with individuals

• Associate degree from accredited college or university; BA/BS/BFA preferred

ROLE COMPETENCIES

• Openness to Feedback

• Managing Conflict

• Valuing Diversity

• Inspiring others

• Developing others

Pre-employment Screening

Pre-employment screening is required for this position, including but not limited to Statewide Clearance Registry results, verification of ability to work in the United States and criminal history check and/or fingerprint check.

EEO Info

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. Educational Alliance takes affirmative action in support of its policy to employ and advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Friday

3-6 hours per week