Ceramic Studio Coordinator (Tech and Production)

High Desert Test Sites

www.hdts.site

ABOUT HIGH DESERT TEST SITES

High Desert Test Sites (HDTS) is a platform for art and experiences that enables us to step outside everyday life and envision new possibilities. The nonprofit arts organization is based in Joshua Tree, CA. Over the last 23 years, HDTS has brought together more than 500 artists from near and far, hosted 12 expansive site-specific programs and 25 solo projects, engaging the desert, its communities, and showcasing significant contemporary art of our times. Ever-evolving, HDTS thrives on fluidity and innovation, embracing the interconnectedness of art, life, and environment.

In January 2022, HDTS assumed stewardship of A-Z West—Andrea Zittel’s 80-acre compound and artwork—including the grounds and artworks, where it provides resources for artist residencies, exhibitions, workshops, lectures, educational outreach, and preservation. Since its inception, A-Z West has functioned as an evolving testing ground for living—a place where spaces, objects, and acts of living intertwine into a single ongoing investigation of what it means to exist and participate in our culture today. These structural transitions have expanded the mission of the organization and presented new opportunities for programming. Learn more at hdts.site and at the HDTS archive.

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

High Desert Test Sites is hiring a Ceramics Studio Coordinator to oversee and maintain the A-Z West ceramics studio, ensuring the smooth operation of ceramic production and studio maintenance. This position involves overseeing the West Works ceramic production while training and managing volunteer residents assisting in production.

Responsibilities

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Oversee and execute the ceramic production process, including hand-finishing greenware, glaze application, and running kiln firings
Train and manage work-trade resident labor to assist with ceramic production tasks
Maintain and troubleshoot kiln equipment and other studio tools
Oversee resident access and use of ceramics studio, including orientation and scheduling
Oversee the organization and cleanliness of the ceramics studio
Order and manage inventory of ceramic materials and supplies
Manage West Works online store: fulfill orders, pack and ship items, track sales
Communicate with retailers and customers regarding product availability and orders
Assist with potential West Works and HDTS editions and collaborations in ceramic
Support planning and execution of pop-up sales and special projects

While primarily focused on ceramic production, this position has the potential to expand into broader production management for West Works and High Desert Test Sites.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This is an in-person position located in Joshua Tree, California, a rural town two hours east of Los Angeles. Applicants seeking remote work will not be considered. Joshua Tree is part of the Morongo Basin, a sprawling, economically diverse, and culturally rich area in the Mojave Desert. The environment includes exposure to desert wildlife such as snakes, rodents, and insects.

This role involves manual labor related to ceramic production, lifting materials, and maintaining studio facilities. Some computer work for inventory, sales, and communication is also required.

WORK HOURS AND PAY

This position is part time with regularly schedule hours up to 14 hours per week with hourly pay of $25 per hour. Regular working hours are anticipated Tuesday and Thursday. Flexibility to work additional hours during special events or peak production periods is preferred. Potential for extra hours depending on experience and project needs.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Experience in ceramic production and kiln operation
Ability to train and manage assistants in a studio production setting
Knowledge of glazing techniques, firing schedules, and ceramic troubleshooting; knowledge of kiln repair is a plus
Detail-oriented, with strong time management and organizational skills
Ability to work independently while also collaborating with a team
Comfortable with customer relations and online store management
Proficiency with inventory tracking and order fulfillment
An interest in and passion for the arts, with a desire to contribute to the HDTS and A-Z West communities
Bachelor’s degree in ceramics, fine arts, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience) is a plus

How to Apply

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please send a letter detailing skills and applicable experiences, a resume, and contact information for 3 references to info@hdts.site.

Interviews start March 31, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

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