Production Potter

Rookwood Pottery; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Rookwood Pottery in Cincinnati, OH, is seeking a Production Potter for a full-time, on-site role. The position involves producing one-of-a-kind collections and new product lines, with live demonstrations during events and collaborations with design teams.

The ideal candidate has production-level hand-throwing skills, carving and surface design experience, and a strong eye for detail. Portfolio submission and in-person competency demonstration are required for hiring.

Qualifications

• Proficient in hand-throwing techniques with production-level experience.
• Skilled in carving, relief work, and surface embellishment on thrown forms.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to reproduce consistent forms.
• Comfortable engaging with the public during events and demos.
• Must be available to work on-site in Cincinnati, 40 hours per week.
• Team-oriented with a flexible and open-minded approach to collaboration.
• Must submit a portfolio and complete an in-person competency demonstration.

Responsibilities

• Produce ceramic forms using hand-throwing techniques according to production and design standards.
• Collaborate with design and development teams on new product concepts and special collections.
• Apply carving, relief, and surface design techniques to enhance thrown forms.
• Maintain consistency, efficiency, and craftsmanship in daily production.
• Participate in public-facing events, including live throwing demonstrations and guest interaction.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace and equipment; work with studio teammates and manage deadlines.
• Stay open to feedback, experimentation, and creative growth.

Skills

Hand-throwing

Carving

Relief work

Surface embellishment

Attention to detail

Public engagement

Team collaboration

Job description

Employment Type: Hourly / Full-Time (In-Person)

About Rookwood

Founded in 1880, Rookwood is a heritage ceramics company rooted in craftsmanship, creativity, and community. Every piece that leaves the studio carries over a century of tradition, made by artists who value quality and innovation in equal measure.

Position Overview

Rookwood is seeking a skilled and creatively minded Production Potter to join its studio team. This is a full-time, in-person role based in Cincinnati, requiring 40 hours per week on site. The Production Potter plays a key role in producing one‑of‑a‑kind collections, custom pieces, and new product lines. From interpreting historic forms to developing contemporary designs, this role offers the opportunity to contribute both technically and creatively.

The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment and brings a refined sense of form, surface, and detail to their work. This includes experience in carving, adding relief elements, and enhancing forms through surface manipulation. The role also includes public‑facing responsibilities such as live throwing demonstrations during events.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce ceramic forms using hand‑throwing techniques according to production and design standards
• Collaborate with design and development teams on new product concepts and special collections
• Apply carving, relief, and surface design techniques to enhance thrown forms
• Maintain consistency, efficiency, and craftsmanship in daily production
• Participate in public‑facing events, including live throwing demonstrations and guest interaction
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace and equipment
  Work collaboratively within the studio while managing personal workflow and deadlines
• Stay open to feedback, experimentation, and creative growth

Requirements

• Proficient in hand‑throwing techniques with production‑level experience
• Skilled in carving, relief work, and surface embellishment on thrown forms
• Strong attention to detail and ability to reproduce consistent forms
• Physically able to meet the demands of full‑time studio work (lifting, wedging, standing/sitting for long periods)
• Comfortable engaging with the public during events and demos
• Must be available to work on‑site in Cincinnati, 40 hours per week
• Team‑oriented, with a flexible and open‑minded approach to creative collaboration
• Must submit a portfolio of work and complete an in‑person competency demonstration as part of the hiring process

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a production pottery studio or ceramics manufacturing setting
• Familiarity with both historic and modern ceramic forms
• Passion for ceramic history, surface techniques, and product innovation