Glass Studio Tech and Instruct Job at Chrysler Museum Of Art in Norfolk

Job Title:

Glass Studio Technician/Instructor

Division:

Visitor Experience/Glass Studio

FLSA Classification:

Non-Exempt

Reports to:

Glass Studio Manager

Revision Date:

January 2025

Primary Purpose:

The Glass Studio Technician maintains, repairs, and updates all glass studio equipment and tools and facilitates the procurement of studio supplies and materials as needed. The Glass Studio Technician provides technical support and expertise within the department, serving a diverse community of artists, instructors, and students. In addition, the Glass Studio Technician prepares for and participates in public demonstrations, classes, visiting artist support, studio rentals, and all studio programming.

Key Performance Indicators:

Job knowledge; Quality of work; Communication; Collaboration; Customer Service; Dependability; and Safety & Security.

Essential Functions:

• Work in conjunction with the Studio Manager to enforce the proper procedures to ensure the safety of the staff, visitors, and of those using the equipment.
• Work with Studio Manager to create and execute equipment maintenance schedule.
• Act as primary 24-hour first responder to all equipment-related emergencies.
• Design and fabricate custom equipment and upgrade/modify current equipment.
• Assist Glass Studio Manager with ongoing development of studio protocol and standard operating procedures.
• Following Museum guidelines and within established budgets, order parts, supplies, and materials.
• Prepare, maintain, and participate in the studio’s operating schedule including but not limited to:
  1. Public demonstrations. (sometimes acting as Gaffer)
  2. Special group and school demonstrations.
  3. Artist in Residence program/Visiting Artist. Tailor to all needs before and during the visit + assist and/or narrate throughout the artist's visit.
  4. Educational classes including workshops and accredited courses.
  5. Monitor studio rentals.
  6. Special Events.
• Serve as an ambassador for the Museum and the Studio, actively work to build public excitement about the facility and its programs, and foster collaborative programs with regional schools and universities.
• Train Studio Assistants and staff on studio operation procedures.
• Oversee Studio Assistants in projects and daily duties when needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned or required.

Required Education/ Experience:

• Over 5 years of experience in maintaining and operating in a glass studio.
• Extensive knowledge of glass studio practices and processes, including glass blowing, cold working, sandblasting, kiln working, flameworking, and mold making.
• Proficient in furnace glass melts and annealing.
• Familiar with common glass studio equipment.
• Strong fabrication skills in both wood and metal.
• Excellent organizational, time management, project management, and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Quick learner with the ability to self-educate as the role evolves.
• Comfortable and confident in public interactions and communication.
• Cooperative and willing to work collaboratively in a team-based environment.
• Competent in serving diverse populations.
• Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Prior experience in teaching glass-making is highly preferred.

Working Conditions:

This position will be based in a busy public environment and be subject to frequent interruption. This position also requires public interaction. The Studio Technician will be required to adhere to and enforce strict safety regulations.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to lift and carry supplies and other awkward items (including glass) weighing up to 75 lbs. without assistance. Requires intermittent standing, walking, sitting, squatting, stretching, and bending throughout the workday; on days when there is programming, standing and walking for 8+ hours a day should be expected. Must be able to see and hear. Must be able to work in the heat throughout the 8-hour or longer workday.