Kiln and Glaze Assistant

Simone Leigh Studio

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We are seeking a dedicated assistant to support the Kiln and Glaze Technician, focusing primarily on activities related to firing and glazing, including documentation, cleaning and maintenance. This role is essential in ensuring a healthy, organized, and efficient workspace.

About Simone Leigh and the Studio.

Simone Leigh works primarily with sculpture, installation, and video, as well as with Social Practice, to foreground black female experience. Often combining premodern techniques and materials—including lost-wax casting, salt-fired ceramics, and terracotta—with potent cultural iconographies such as cowrie shells, plantains, and tobacco leaves, Leigh creates objects and environments that reframe stereotypes associated with black women and celebrate black life. While Simone works in various media, the main studio is primarily dedicated to ceramic processes and is located in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Other work is fabricated off site.

Responsibilities

Glaze Room Maintenance

Thoroughly clean and maintain all surfaces to prevent glaze and dust buildup
Organize and manage our inventory of dry materials, ensuring the glaze tables are well-stocked
Label and consolidate materials and containers for easy access
Assist with the upkeep of glaze room equipment to keep everything in top shape
Prepare artworks for glazing by vacuuming and sponging them to perfection
Safely handle and dispose of waste glaze

Kiln Maintenance

Vacuum kiln interior
Follow and maintain kiln-related systems and spreadsheets as directed by kiln technician
Check and move greenware as needed for bisque firings
Assist with loading and unloading of ceramic objects under the direction of the kiln technician
Maintain the cleanliness of the kiln room
Communicate low inventory levels to department lead
Assist kiln technician with kiln-related tasks as needed
Take the lead on loading and unloading in absence of the kiln technician, collaborating with other team members as necessary

& other duties as assigned

Requirements

Required

BFA with a focus on ceramic art or equivalent experience
Experience preparing and firing ceramic wares in electric and atmospheric kilns
Basic knowledge of glaze chemistry
Basic knowledge of ceramic kilns
Must be comfortable using power tools

Preferred

MFA with a focus on ceramic art or equivalent experience
Methodical and organized
In-depth knowledge of ceramics in an art context
Experience in other ceramic areas including hand-building, mold-making, slip casting
Experience in fabricating large scale objects

How to Apply

Please send the following materials to office@simoneleigh.com with the subject “Kiln and Glaze Assistant ” and your name.

Cover letter
Resume (1 page max). Please include a listing of education, skills, and professional experience.
Project samples. PDF with images showing relevant breadth of skills.
References including name, title, phone number, and email (2)

Contact