Pottery Wheel Demonstrator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of arts and crafts, the spotlight on pottery wheel demonstrators has never been brighter.

As the appreciation for handcrafted arts expands, the demand for skilled hands who can mold, create, and demonstrate the intricacies of using a pottery wheel grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a pottery wheel demonstrator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect job posting,
• Or simply fascinated by the art of pottery wheel demonstration,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable pottery wheel demonstrator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or arts and crafts websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pottery Wheel Demonstrator Duties and Responsibilities

Pottery Wheel Demonstrators are skilled artisans who demonstrate the art of pottery making using a pottery wheel.

They make pottery items from clay and other materials, and train others in the techniques and skills required.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Preparing the pottery wheel and materials for demonstration
• Explaining and demonstrating the process of forming, finishing, and firing pottery items
• Engaging the audience, answering questions, and providing detailed information on the pottery-making process
• Showing different techniques such as centering the clay, opening, and pulling walls to form shapes
• Decorating, glazing, or painting pottery items for demonstrations
• Maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the demonstration area
• Assisting individuals who are practicing on the pottery wheel
• Offering tips and techniques to improve pottery-making skills
• Ensuring all equipment and tools are maintained and stored properly

 

Pottery Wheel Demonstrator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled and engaging Pottery Wheel Demonstrator to showcase pottery-making techniques and teach guests about the art of pottery.

The ideal candidate will have a deep passion for pottery, excellent communication skills, and be able to demonstrate the process of creating pottery on a wheel in an engaging and informative manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Performing live demonstrations of creating pottery on a wheel.
• Explaining the pottery-making process to guests.
• Teaching guests basic pottery-making techniques.
• Maintaining a clean and organized work environment.
• Engaging and interacting with guests in a positive, professional manner.
• Answering questions from guests about pottery and pottery-making techniques.
• Assisting with setup and tear down of demonstration area as needed.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Pottery Wheel Demonstrator or similar role.
• Knowledge of pottery-making techniques and tools.
• Excellent public speaking and presentation skills.
• Strong ability to engage and interact with guests of all ages.
• A high degree of patience and a friendly demeanor.
• High school diploma or equivalent. A degree in Fine Arts or a related field is a plus.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Creative and fun work environment

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pottery Wheel Demonstrator
• Work Environment: Pottery studio. May require some outdoor demonstrations depending on the event.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Studio Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $40,000 maximum
• 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pottery Wheel Demonstrator Do?

A Pottery Wheel Demonstrator typically works for pottery studios, art schools, or at festivals and exhibitions.

They can also work independently, offering private classes or workshops.

Their primary role is to demonstrate the use of a pottery wheel to create ceramic products.

This includes showing how to prepare the clay, center it on the wheel, and use different techniques to shape it into bowls, vases, plates, or other objects.

Pottery Wheel Demonstrators explain each step of the process in detail to ensure that the students or audience members understand the intricacies involved.

They provide hands-on guidance, helping individuals correct their techniques or solve any issues that may arise during the process.

Their job also involves ensuring the safety of the participants by teaching them how to properly use the pottery wheel and other equipment.

They may also discuss the history and science of pottery, providing a comprehensive understanding of the craft.

In addition, they often show how to glaze and fire the pottery, completing the creation process.

Pottery Wheel Demonstrators often work closely with art educators, pottery studio managers, and artists to develop and enhance their demonstration techniques and keep up to date with the latest trends in pottery.

 

Pottery Wheel Demonstrator Qualifications and Skills

A proficient pottery wheel demonstrator should have the qualifications and skills that include:

• Artistic ability and creativity to craft beautiful, unique pieces of pottery and demonstrate various techniques.
• Technical knowledge and skill to operate and maintain a pottery wheel and handle different types of clay.
• Excellent communication and teaching skills to clearly explain and demonstrate pottery wheel techniques to people of different skill levels.
• Patience and encouraging attitude to support learners as they try to master the techniques.
• Interpersonal skills to connect with attendees, building a positive and engaging learning environment.
• Physical strength and endurance to work with heavy clay and operate the pottery wheel for extended periods.
• Attention to detail to create precise and intricate designs and to notice and correct any mistakes during the demonstration.

 

Pottery Wheel Demonstrator Experience Requirements

Pottery Wheel Demonstrators typically have attended craft, art, or design classes, where they have learned the theoretical and practical aspects of pottery-making.

At the entry-level, candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through part-time roles or internships in craft studios or ceramic workshops.

These professionals may also gain experience through self-taught practice or participation in community craft programs.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience often have developed their skills through consistent practice and may have gained proficiency in using various types of pottery wheels and tools.

They may also have a good understanding of clay types, glazing techniques, and pottery designs.

Those with more than 4 years of experience are often highly skilled and may have developed a unique style or signature in their pottery.

They may also have experience teaching or demonstrating pottery-making to others, making them suitable for senior demonstrator roles or workshop facilitator positions.

Finally, candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have gained a reputation within the pottery community, participated in art exhibitions, and may even have experience running their own pottery studio.

Such individuals are likely ready to take on leadership or managerial roles within craft studios or educational institutes.

 

Pottery Wheel Demonstrator Education and Training Requirements

To become a Pottery Wheel Demonstrator, one typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent.

Some colleges and vocational schools offer courses in ceramics, which can be beneficial for gaining in-depth knowledge about the art.

A strong background in pottery wheel operation is a must.

This skill is often acquired through hands-on experience, which can be gained through art classes, workshops, or apprenticeships under seasoned potters.

Understanding of different types of clay, pottery techniques, and kiln operation are crucial.

Experience in demonstrating pottery techniques, either in a teaching, workshop, or demonstrator setting, is also valuable.

In terms of formal education, a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, with a concentration in ceramics or sculpture, can provide a foundational understanding of the field.

While not mandatory, it can give an advantage and enhance credibility.

Certifications in pottery or ceramics from recognized art institutions can be an added advantage.

These usually involve courses that teach advanced pottery techniques, glazing methods, and firing processes.

A pottery wheel demonstrator should also possess excellent communication skills, as they must effectively impart their knowledge to a variety of audiences.

 

Pottery Wheel Demonstrator Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Pottery Wheel Demonstrator is around $16.00 (USD) per hour.

However, this can fluctuate based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, the location where they are working, and the entity that they are employed by.

 

Pottery Wheel Demonstrator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pottery Wheel Demonstrator need?

A Pottery Wheel Demonstrator should have excellent manual dexterity, artistic skills, and a good eye for detail.

They must be proficient in various pottery techniques and understand the properties of clay.

A solid understanding of wheel-thrown pottery, hand-building, and glazing techniques is required.

Additionally, they need to have strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively demonstrate and explain these techniques to others.

 

Do Pottery Wheel Demonstrators need a degree?

A degree is not typically required for a Pottery Wheel Demonstrator, but having an educational background in fine arts, ceramics, or a related field can be beneficial.

The most crucial aspect is having a deep understanding and mastery of pottery wheel techniques.

Some institutions may require a demonstrator to have completed certain pottery classes or workshops.

 

What should you look for in a Pottery Wheel Demonstrator resume?

A Pottery Wheel Demonstrator’s resume should highlight their experience in ceramics, specifically using a pottery wheel.

It should show any formal training or education they have in pottery or ceramics.

Any experience in teaching or demonstrating pottery techniques should also be highlighted.

It’s also beneficial if they have a portfolio of their work, showcasing their technical proficiency and artistic ability.

 

What qualities make a good Pottery Wheel Demonstrator?

A good Pottery Wheel Demonstrator should have a deep passion for ceramics and an enthusiasm for sharing that passion with others.

They should be patient and skilled educators, able to break down complex techniques into understandable steps.

They should also have excellent communication skills to interact with people of various age groups and skill levels.

A keen eye for detail, creativity, and a good sense of design are also important qualities.

 

Is it challenging to find a Pottery Wheel Demonstrator?

Finding a Pottery Wheel Demonstrator can be challenging since it requires a unique blend of artistic skill, technical proficiency, and teaching ability.

However, many artists, teachers, and experienced potters may be interested in this role.

Advertising the position in art schools, pottery workshops, and online art communities can help in finding the right candidate.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unearthed the true essence of being a pottery wheel demonstrator.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about spinning clay.

It’s about shaping the world of ceramics, one pottery wheel demonstration at a time.

Equipped with our authentic pottery wheel demonstrator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why halt your momentum?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next move towards precision-created listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Bear in mind:

Each pottery wheel demonstration is a piece of the larger mosaic.

Let’s sculpt that future. Hand in hand.