ACL Pottery Technician

Oaklands College; St Albans; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A local educational institution in St Albans is searching for a Ceramics Technician to join their Art & Design team. In this hands-on role, you will support students in ceramics studios by ensuring a well-organized workspace, demonstrating techniques, and maintaining equipment. Ideal candidates possess a Level 2 vocational qualification and industry experience. The position offers a chance to foster creativity in a collaborative environment, alongside generous benefits and professional development.

Benefits

Generous annual leave entitlement

Local Government Pension Scheme

Professional development and training opportunities

Wellbeing support and free gym access

Staff discounts

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year's recent industry experience in ceramics.
• Specialist skills in ceramic studio practice (e.g. kiln operation, glaze mixing).
• Understanding of UK health and safety rules.

Responsibilities

• Ensure ceramics studios are well-prepared and fully equipped for learning.
• Maintain, order, and replenish materials for workshops.
• Provide in-class technical assistance and demonstrate equipment.

Skills

Hands-on workshop skills

Detail-oriented

Technical expertise in ceramics

Health and safety compliance

Supportive educational skills

Education

NVQ Level 2 or equivalent qualification

Job description

Are you passionate about craftsmanship, creativity, and supporting the next generation of artists? We're looking for a Ceramics Technician to join our Art & Design team at Oaklands College – someone who's as comfortable in a hands‑on workshop as they are inspiring students to explore and create.

This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in delivering exceptional learning experiences within our ceramics studios.

Your day‑to‑day impact: Studio Support & Organisation – Ensure our ceramics studios are well‑prepared and fully equipped for learning. You’ll maintain, order, and replenish materials, manage specialist rooms, and keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Hands‑On Technical Expertise – From loading and offloading kilns to mixing glazes and maintaining tools, your specialist skills will ensure every practical session runs safely and efficiently.

Student & Staff Support – Work closely with lecturers to provide in‑class technical assistance and demonstrate equipment. You’ll play an essential role in helping students gain confidence in their practical skills.

Health & Safety Leadership – Ensure all activities follow strict health and safety standards. You’ll carry out risk assessments, monitor student safety, and maintain compliance with college policies.

Creative Maintenance & Care – Keep studios clean, tidy, and inspiring – a space where creativity thrives. You’ll carry out routine maintenance and take pride in a well‑run, professional learning environment.

Is this you? You're hands‑on, detail‑oriented, and passionate about the creative process. You take pride in craftsmanship and find joy in supporting others as they learn and grow.

Whether you're preparing materials, maintaining kilns, or demonstrating techniques, you bring a calm, organised, and positive energy to everything you do.

You’ll be a key part of a collaborative and creative team that values professionalism, curiosity, and a genuine love of making.

What You'll Bring

• NVQ Level 2 or equivalent qualification in a vocationally relevant area
• Minimum 1 year's recent industry experience in ceramics
• Specialist skills in ceramic studio practice (e.g. kiln operation, glaze mixing, tool maintenance)
• Understanding of UK health and safety rules
• Experience working with adults or learners in an educational or workshop environment

Desirable

• Experience in an education or training setting
• Knowledge of inventory management and stock control
• A passion for supporting learners in creative subjects

At Oaklands, you'll be part of a college that values creativity, innovation, and community. We offer:

• Generous annual leave entitlement
• Local Government Pension Scheme with excellent employer contributions
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• Access to wellbeing support, free gym, and staff discounts
• A supportive team culture where your contribution truly matters

Most importantly, you'll have the opportunity to make a real difference – helping students gain confidence, skill, and pride in their craft while keeping our ceramics studios at the heart of a thriving creative community.

Oaklands is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults.