Pottery Maker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of craft and design, the demand for pottery makers is ever-present.

As creativity evolves, so does the need for skilled hands who can mold, shape and add life to our ceramic creations.

But what does it really mean to be a pottery maker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate process of pottery making,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable pottery maker job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Pottery Maker Duties and Responsibilities

Pottery Makers use their technical skill, creativity, and understanding of materials to create functional or decorative objects from clay.

They may work in a variety of settings, from small artisanal pottery studios to large industrial ceramics manufacturers.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and designing original pottery pieces, considering factors such as size, shape, color, texture, and use
• Preparing clay for pottery by kneading and wedging to remove air bubbles
• Using hand-building techniques, such as pinching, coiling, and slab construction, to shape clay into desired forms
• Operating pottery wheels to throw pots and other round vessels
• Applying glazes, slips, and underglazes to pottery surfaces using brushes, sponges, or sprayers
• Firing pottery in kilns, carefully controlling temperature and duration to achieve desired results
• Inspecting finished pottery for flaws and defects
• Maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the pottery studio, including cleaning equipment and tools
• Repairing or modifying pieces that have cracked or chipped during the firing process
• Keeping records of designs, materials, and techniques for future reference

 

Pottery Maker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Pottery Maker to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, experience in pottery making, and a creative mind.

The Pottery Maker’s responsibilities include creating unique and attractive pottery items, maintaining equipment and tools, and ensuring a safe working environment.

You should be able to use various techniques such as wheel throwing, coiling and slab construction to create your pieces.

 

Responsibilities

• Create pottery items such as vases, dishes, bowls and sculptures using pottery wheel or hand-building techniques
• Decorate, glaze, or paint pottery items
• Operate kiln to fire pottery pieces
• Maintain and clean pottery equipment and tools
• Develop and maintain a portfolio of pottery designs
• Ensure a safe and tidy working environment
• Assist in pottery workshops and classes if needed
• Conduct quality control checks on finished products

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Pottery Maker or a related role
• Proficiency in using pottery wheel and hand-building techniques
• Knowledge of various pottery materials, techniques, and styles
• Familiarity with kiln operation and maintenance
• Creativity and attention to detail
• Good hand-eye coordination
• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pottery Maker
• Work Environment: Studio setting. Some travel may be required for fairs and exhibitions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Studio Manager or Owner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Varies depending on experience and skill level
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pottery Maker Do?

Pottery Makers, also known as Ceramic Artists or Potters, are skilled artisans who create objects from clay.

These objects can range from functional items, like plates and bowls, to decorative pieces, like vases or sculptures.

They first prepare the clay, which involves kneading it to remove air bubbles and obtain a smooth consistency.

Then, they shape the clay into the desired form.

This could be done by hand or by using a pottery wheel.

Once the shape is achieved, it undergoes a process called ‘greenware’ drying, where it is left to dry until it hardens.

After the greenware phase, the piece is fired in a kiln at a high temperature, which results in a hard, permanent object.

This process is known as ‘bisque firing’.

Pottery Makers then apply glazes or paints to the bisqueware, which can add color, design, and a glassy surface to the piece.

After this, a second firing, known as ‘glaze firing’, is done to seal these decorative elements onto the pottery.

Apart from these, Pottery Makers also repair and maintain their tools and equipment, source materials, and may also be involved in selling their pieces at craft fairs, shops, or online.

They may also teach pottery classes or workshops.

In all these processes, a Pottery Maker uses their creativity and technical skill to create unique pieces of art.

 

Pottery Maker Qualifications and Skills

A skilled pottery maker should have a series of qualifications and skills that align with the craft, including:

• Strong hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to shape and mold clay into specific forms.
• Artistic creativity and the ability to visualize the end product before it is made.
• A keen eye for detail to ensure the symmetry and aesthetic appeal of pottery.
• Knowledge of and experience in different pottery techniques such as coiling, slabbing, pinching, and wheel-throwing.
• Ability to operate pottery equipment like potter’s wheels and kilns safely and effectively.
• Understanding of glazing and firing techniques to create unique finishes on the pottery.
• Patience and dedication to complete projects that may require a significant amount of time.
• Physical stamina to stand or sit for long periods while working on pieces.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills to build relationships with clients and understand their pottery needs.

 

Pottery Maker Experience Requirements

Pottery Makers usually start their journey by taking ceramics or pottery classes to learn basic hand-building techniques, glazing, and firing.

They can gain such experience in community colleges, art centers, or private studios.

Many pottery makers also complete an apprenticeship under a professional potter, where they can gain valuable hands-on experience and learn the nuances of the trade.

Entry-level pottery makers may have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in ceramics or pottery making, often gained through part-time roles or internships in ceramic studios or art centers.

Pottery makers with more than 3 years of experience may have developed advanced skills in wheel-throwing, sculpting, and mold-making.

They might have also experimented with various techniques of glazing and firing.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are usually skilled in managing a pottery studio, including kiln operation and maintenance, clay preparation, and inventory management.

They may also have experience teaching pottery classes and could be ready to take on a senior or manager role in a ceramic studio or art center.

 

Pottery Maker Education and Training Requirements

Pottery Makers typically learn their craft through on-the-job training, internships, or apprenticeships under the guidance of experienced potters.

However, formal education programs in ceramics or a related field, such as sculpture, are also available at art schools and universities.

These programs often lead to a bachelor’s or master’s degree in fine arts.

Courses in these programs often include ceramics theory, pottery-making techniques, glazing and decoration techniques, and mold making.

Students may also study the history of pottery and the different styles and techniques used around the world.

Many pottery makers also attend workshops or short courses to improve their skills and learn new techniques.

Mastering the craft of pottery making often takes many years of practice.

While not required, some pottery makers choose to get certified.

Certification programs, such as the one offered by the American Art Clay Co., Inc., can demonstrate a pottery maker’s competence and dedication to the craft.

Regardless of how they learn their craft, pottery makers need excellent hand-eye coordination, a keen eye for detail, and a high degree of creativity.

 

Pottery Maker Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Pottery Maker is around $31,200 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can significantly differ based on the potter’s skill level, years of experience, location, and whether they’re self-employed or working for a company.

Renowned pottery makers who have built a reputation for their craft can earn substantially more.

 

Pottery Maker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pottery Maker need?

Pottery Makers need a combination of creative and technical skills.

They should have a keen eye for detail, color, and texture.

Manual dexterity, steady hands, and good hand-eye coordination are also essential.

Understanding of different types of clay, glazes, and pottery techniques is crucial.

Additionally, they should have basic business and marketing skills if they wish to sell their work.

 

Do Pottery Makers need any specific education or training?

While there are no formal education requirements for becoming a Pottery Maker, many professionals in the field have some form of art-related education.

This could include a degree in fine arts or a vocational course in pottery or ceramics.

Hands-on training, often through apprenticeships or on-the-job experience, is typically the most beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Pottery Maker’s portfolio?

A Pottery Maker’s portfolio should display a range of pieces that showcase their skills and versatility.

Look for variety in style, technique, and material.

The portfolio should also demonstrate the artist’s consistency, creativity, and attention to detail.

 

What qualities make a good Pottery Maker?

A good Pottery Maker is patient, as the process of creating pottery can be time-consuming and requires careful attention.

They are also creative, able to design unique pieces and experiment with new techniques.

Additionally, good Pottery Makers have a keen understanding of their materials and tools, allowing them to create high-quality, durable pieces.

 

Is it difficult to find skilled Pottery Makers?

Finding skilled Pottery Makers can be a challenge.

Pottery is a craft that requires a unique combination of artistic talent and technical skill, which is not always easy to find.

However, many talented individuals are drawn to the profession for its creative and tactile nature.

Advertising in arts and crafts publications, websites, and attending art fairs can help in finding skilled Pottery Makers.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug into the essence of what it means to be a pottery maker.

Surprised?

It’s not just about moulding clay.

It’s about crafting an artistic legacy, one pottery piece at a time.

With our easy-to-use pottery maker job description template and real-life examples, you’re fully equipped to step forward.

But why halt your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next platform for creating precision-crafted job listings or refining your portfolio to perfection.

Remember:

Every clay mould is a fragment of the grander artistic panorama.

Let’s shape that future. Together.