Job Description

The Heartfulness Institute is a not-for-profit organization that aims to promote spiritual evolution through practical and innovative approaches. With a broad range of resources to meet different levels and needs, the Institute offers meditation, relaxation, leadership, well-being, and lifestyle programs to individuals around the world. Work Location: Kanha Shanti Vanam, Hyderabad https://g.co/kgs/4EiMgu Position Overview: We are seeking a detail-oriented and skilled Production Studio Technician to support the smooth functioning of our pottery production studio. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in ceramics, knowledge of studio equipment, and the ability to maintain a clean and organized work environment. This role involves hands-on work with kilns, clay preparation, glaze mixing, and other studio operations. Key Responsibilities: Studio Maintenance: Ensure the studio and workspaces are clean, organized, and safe for daily operations. Inspect and maintain studio equipment such as kilns, wheels, pug mills, slab rollers, and other tools. Troubleshoot and repair minor equipment issues or coordinate with vendors for repairs when necessary. Clay Materials Preparation: Prepare clay bodies for production, including mixing, pugging, and recycling scrap clay. Monitor inventory levels for clay, glazes, tools, and other supplies, ensuring timely orders are placed. Kiln Operation: Load, fire, and unload kilns for bisque and glaze firings, ensuring firing schedules are followed. Safely operate electric or gas kilns and monitor firing cycles. Maintain detailed records of kiln firing logs and processes. Glaze Mixing Application: Mix glazes according to studio recipes, ensuring consistency in batches. Assist with the application of glazes on pottery pieces. Test and adjust glaze recipes as necessary for production quality. Health Safety Compliance: Adhere to safety protocols for the handling of chemicals, kilns, and other equipment. Ensure proper ventilation, dust control, and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage. Studio Support: Assist studio artists and potters with production tasks, including trimming, surface finishing, and glazing. Provide technical assistance and guidance to other studio members. Collaborate with management on improving studio workflow and efficiency. Documentation Record Keeping: Maintain accurate inventory records, firing schedules, and materials usage logs. Assist in documenting production processes and quality control measures. Qualifications: Proven experience working in a ceramic or pottery studio (either production-based or educational). Strong understanding of ceramic processes, including clay preparation, glazing, and kiln firing. Experience operating and maintaining studio equipment, including kilns, pottery wheels, and mixing equipment. Ability to troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on studio equipment. Excellent organizational and time management skills. Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge of health and safety regulations related to ceramics and studio operations. Preferred Skills: Familiarity with ceramic chemistry and glaze formulation. Experience with both manual and electric kilns. Ability to lift and move heavy materials (e.g., clay, kiln shelves). Basic knowledge of computer software for inventory management and documentation.