Tile Presser (Part-Time Seasonal)

Pewabic; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 16,531,000 - 24,797,000; Part time

Job summary

Pewabic is seeking a Part-Time Seasonal Tile Presser to support holiday demand in our Detroit studio. The role blends fine craft with heavy physical labor, focusing on hand-press tile production and giftware during peak season.

Schedule is 2–3 days per week up to 24 hours, with possible extension into January depending on production. Candidates should embrace Pewabic’s craft heritage and work safely in a fast-paced team.

Qualifications

• Ceramics degree or equivalent professional studio/production experience.
• Previous experience in a clay studio, ceramics production, or manufacturing environment preferred.
• Experience with hand-pressing techniques or operating basic production equipment helpful.
• Pewabic OSHA program certification (or willingness to complete upon hire).

Responsibilities

• Prepare clay by hand for hand-press tiles and seasonal giftware using an arbor press to establish standards.
• Focus production on high-demand retail items, giftware, and holiday ornaments to meet seasonal quotas.
• Learn and assist with setting up and operating hydraulic ram press equipment for retail giftware as needed.
• Maintain craftsmanship and detail to uphold Pewabic’s historic aesthetic standards.
• Meet or exceed daily and weekly seasonal production goals.
• Support material handling and production flow across the Fabrication department.

Skills

Craftsmanship & Detail

Efficiency

Communication

Reliability

Team Collaboration

Stamina

Education

Ceramics degree or equivalent professional studio/production experience

Tools

Arbor press

Hydraulic ram press

Job description

Schedule Expectations: Part-time schedule of 2–3 days per week (maximum 24 hours). While a fixed, predetermined schedule is preferred to keep fabrication running smoothly, some flexibility may be available depending on production timelines.

Postion Summary

Pewabic is seeking a creative, goal-oriented individual to join our Fabrication team as a Part-Time Seasonal Tile Presser. This role exists to support Pewabic’s mission to “enrich the human spirit through clay” by supporting seasonal demand for retail products, giftware, and holiday ornaments. This seasonal assignment is expected to run through December, with the potential to extend into mid-January based on business and production demands, though the exact end date remains undetermined.

The Seasonal Tile Presser contributes to advancing ceramic arts through skilled hand-press tile production, maintaining high craftsmanship standards, and supporting collaborative, goal-oriented production workflows. This role is a unique blend of fine craft and heavy physical labor, requiring a keen eye for detail, consistency, and a \"go above and beyond\" attitude to help meet peak production targets.

Operational Responsibilities

TileProduction&Seasonal Demand :

• Prepare clay by hand for hand-press tiles and seasonal giftware using an arbor press to establish aesthetic and dimensional standards.
• Focus production efforts on high-demand retail items, giftware, and holiday ornaments to meet seasonal quota targets.
• Perform edge cleaning and dust pit preparation on all gift tiles and ornaments to prepare them for edge glazing.
• Learn and assist with setting up and operating hydraulic ram press equipment for retail giftware as needed.
• Maintain consistent craftsmanship and high attention to detail in all hand-pressed work to uphold Pewabic’s historic aesthetic standards.
• Meet or exceed established daily and weekly seasonal production goals.
• Support material handling, clay preparation, and production flow across the Fabrication department.
• Assist other fabrication areas as needed to ensure smooth pottery operations during high-volume periods.
  

Studio Safety & Workflow Support:

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe production workspace at all times.
• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as respirators and hearing protection.
• Complete required training on OSHA programs and Pewabic safety practices.
• Safely handle and transport clay, tools, and finished greenware.
  

Visitor Engagement & Team Support:

• Demonstrate and discuss ceramic techniques with visitors, serving as an ambassador for Pewabic’s mission and living craft traditions.
• Engage positively with visitors during high-traffic studio events and retail sales.
• Participate in Pewabic-wide events such as the annual Garden Party, Staff/Second Sale, and holiday events.
• Collaborate across the Fabrication department to support overall production flow.
• Perform additional tasks as needed in the fabrication department or Production Manager.
  

Required Qualifications

Education : Ceramics degree or equivalent professional studio/production experience.

Experience:

• Previousexperienceinaclaystudio,ceramicsproduction,ormanufacturing environment is preferred.
• Experience with hand-pressing techniques or operating basic production equipment helpful.

CertificationsorLicensureif required:

• PewabicOSHAprogramcertification(orwillingnesstocompleteupon hire).

TechnicalSkills& Mindset:

• Craftsmanship & Detail: Strong attention to detail, consistency, and quality control during high-volume production.
• Efficiency: Ability to work efficiently to achieve production targets without sacrificing quality.
• Communication: Open, engaging communication style for interacting with teammates and the public to create the best possible Pewabic experience.
• Competency: Ability to retain technical information and maintain a strong work ethic in a fast-paced environment.
• Mission Alignment: A strong connection to Pewabic’s products, historic mission, and creative community.
  
• Attention to detail and fine craftsmanship under production deadlines.
• Team collaboration within a high-functioning, tight-knit environment.
• Reliability and consistency in seasonal production output.
• Commitment to studio safety (OSHA) and quality standards.
• Passion for working with your hands in a physically demanding role.
  
• Extremely Physical: This role requires sustained physical labor throughout the workday.
• Lifting: Frequent lifting of 50 lbs. consistently; ability to lift up to 100 lbs with assistance or team lifting.
• Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods while pressing tiles and working at studio stations.
• Environment: Exposure to clay materials, dust, and fabrication tools.
  

Pewabic is an equal opportunity employe r.