Ceramics Coach & Studio Mentor — High School

East Side Union High School District; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The East Side Union High School District (ESUHSD) is seeking a skilled Ceramics Coach to enhance student learning in the Visual Arts program. The role brings professional ceramic techniques, studio practices, and real-world creativity into classrooms, extending instruction beyond the standard curriculum.

You will coach students in hand-building, glazing, and kiln operation, collaborate with teachers, promote safe studio operation, and support exhibitions and portfolio development.

Qualifications

• Ceramic artist, potter, or educator with demonstrated expertise in ceramic arts.
• Advanced technical knowledge of ceramic materials, firing techniques, and equipment (including kilns and glazes).
• Familiarity with industry standards, sustainability practices, and health/safety protocols in the ceramic arts.
• Ability to communicate artistic and technical concepts clearly and effectively.
• Strong collaboration and coaching skills to support both teachers and students.
• Experience teaching, mentoring, or coaching youth preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coach students in ceramic techniques in hand-building, glazing, surface design, slip casting, and kiln operation.
• Demonstrate professional standards and creative workflows used by ceramic artists in studio and production settings.
• Collaborate with the Visual Arts teacher to design sessions that enhance and extend classroom instruction.
• Introduce students to industry practices including safe studio operation, equipment maintenance, and proper material handling.
• Support the teacher in preparing materials, managing tools, and maintaining studio organization and safety standards.
• Encourage students to present and reflect on their work through exhibitions, critiques, and portfolio documentation.

Skills

Ceramic artist, potter, or educator

Advanced firing techniques

Safety standards in ceramic arts

Communication of concepts

Collaboration and coaching

Youth teaching/mentoring

Job description

The East Side Union High School District (ESUHSD) is seeking a skilled Ceramics Coach to enhance student learning in the Visual Arts program. The role brings professional ceramic techniques, studio practices, and real-world creativity into classrooms, extending instruction beyond the standard curriculum.

You will coach students in hand-building, glazing, and kiln operation, collaborate with teachers, promote safe studio operation, and support exhibitions and portfolio development.