Hands-On Ceramics Studio Research Assistant (Work-Study)

Whitman College; Walla Walla (WA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Whitman College is seeking a Student Ceramics Research Assistant (Work-Study) to support large-scale Nigerian/West African-inspired clay sculptures under Prof. Deshun Peoples.

Responsibilities include clay preparation, mold handling, slip-casting, wheel work, kiln operation, and glaze tasks in a busy ceramic studio. Ideal candidates are self-directed, detail-oriented, and eager to learn various ceramics techniques from hand-building to mold-making.

Qualifications

• Intermediate knowledge with clay construction techniques
• Ability to lift up to 50+ lbs as needed
• Willingness to learn and adapt to studio processes
• Comfort with self-directed work and following multi-step tasks

Responsibilities

• Process/prepare clay for mold making and/or slip casting.
• Handle large plaster molds including lifting and cleaning.
• Mix clay slip and prepare slabs/coils for slip-casting and press-molding.
• Use potter's wheel to trim and refine components.
• Occasional loading and firing of ceramic kilns.
• Occasional glaze preparation and mixing.
• Inventory monitoring and upkeep.
• Regular studio cleanliness and safety maintenance.

Skills

Attention to detail

Self-directed work

Desire to create and work with hands

Ceramics construction methods

Willingness to learn

Tools

Ceramics kilns

Pug mill

Plaster molds

Hand tools

Job description

Whitman College is seeking a Student Ceramics Research Assistant (Work-Study) to support large-scale Nigerian/West African-inspired clay sculptures under Prof. Deshun Peoples.

Responsibilities include clay preparation, mold handling, slip-casting, wheel work, kiln operation, and glaze tasks in a busy ceramic studio. Ideal candidates are self-directed, detail-oriented, and eager to learn various ceramics techniques from hand-building to mold-making.