JOB TITLE: Potter

DEPARTMENT: Production Potter

RELATIONSHIP: Reports to the Lead Potter

JOB SUMMARY: Operate a potter’s wheel to process clay in manufacturing to create superior quality hand thrown pottery mugs for our customers per their specifications.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. After the training period, minimums of 200 pieces need to be completed within each shift.
2. Each potter is responsible for cutting their clay to the correct dimensions using the harp.
3. Must be able to throw pieces to the correct dimensions and the correct shape.
4. Must be able to adjust wheel speeds according to the feel of the clay as pieces enlarge and walls become thinner.
5. Raise and shape clay into wares, on revolving wheels, using hands, fingers and thumbs.
6. Smooth surfaces of finished pieces, using Deneen’s profile tool to specific dimensions.
7. Pulls wire through base of finished product and transfer to a ware board.
8. Once the board is full, then transfer to the fan box.
9. Must be able to examine finished ware for defects and measure dimensions, using rule and thickness gauge.
10. Your workspace should not be shared with another Potter, however the workspace should be left in a way so that if the need arises, someone else could sit at that workstation and make pots.
11. Your workspace must be cleaned daily. At the end of each day wipe down your wheel and station, as well as sweeping and mopping daily.
12. Participation in all Safety and Health Training Programs as required.

OTHER PERTINENT JOB INFORMATION:

1. Each shape has a learning curve that will be compensated at the potter's hourly rate until competency and consistency are achieved.
2. Exposure - Frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment may be loud. Ability to work in a variety of working conditions including, but not limited to heat, cold and dust.
3. Physical - The employee must frequently lift and/or move 25-50 pounds. Must be able to sit for prolonged periods at the potter’s wheel. Corrected vision is required to be able to perform the job functions. Regularly required to stand and sit, use hands, and reach with hands and arms, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, push and pull.
4. Equipment – Responsible for the safekeeping and use of company tools including, but not limited to profile tools, wheels, wire cutters, scrapers and computer.
5. A full time Potter has somewhat flexible schedule; the workday may start as early as 6:00 am but no later than 9:00 am and should last 6.5-8 hours but be done before 6:00 pm.
6. It is every employee’s responsibility to perform each job task safely. If an employee is unsure how to perform the task safely and/or follow operating procedures, he or she must consult with their lead/manager.

ACCOUNTABILITY:

Provide quality hand thrown clay per customer’s specifications at the same time applying the company’s mission.

Prior experience in throwing pottery is required, which includes 2-4 years of ceramic studies and/or 2-4 years experience throwing on a wheel. Ability to complete a minimum of 1,000 mugs per a maximum 40-hour workweek. Must have the ability to work both alone and within a team environment. Must have good hand and eye coordination. Excellent communication and time management skills and be able to monitor processes, inspect equipment, materials or surroundings as needed. BA/BS or High School diploma or GED is preferred, but not required. Must be able to enter daily production information into the computer. Interested in working in an intercultural environment. Possess a positive attitude!

What We Offer:

• This position starts at $18.50 per hour.
• Comprehensive benefits, including 401K & Roth Plan, Health and Dental insurance,
  HSA & FSA Plan, STD & LTD, Supplemental Life Insurance Plan, and 8 Paid Holidays.