Laboratory Technician - Ceramics, Short Term ; Temporary

Under the direction of the Dean of Arts and Humanities, assist in the operation and maintenance of a ceramics classroom/laboratory, performing specialized and technical duties to ensure efficient operations.

• Assist in the operation and maintenance of a ceramics classroom/laboratory; perform specialized and technical duties to assure efficient operations; set up classroom/laboratory and equipment for instructors. (E)
• Assist teachers and students in the proper and safe use of a variety of equipment, materials, and supplies in the instructional setting; provide assistance to students as appropriate, assigned or according to established procedures. (E)
• Prepare instructional materials and equipment for teacher demonstrations and student use as requested, according to approved procedures. (E)
• Maintain a ceramics classroom/laboratory environment in a safe, clean and orderly condition. (E)
• Formulate and test clays and glazes; fire and maintain kilns; operate and maintain a wide variety of specialized equipment including but not limited to mixers, wheels, and hand and power tools. (E)
• Order, receive and store supplies, materials, and equipment; maintain inventories, to assure appropriate quantities are available for instructional use. (E)
• Adjust, maintain, calibrate, and perform minor repair to equipment; report major repair needs or arrange for repairs according to established procedures. (E)
• Prepare and maintain various records and reports related to classroom/laboratory operations and activities as required. (E)
• Assist in the scheduling of the use of the ceramics classroom/laboratory equipment and supplies. (E)
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience: Any combination equivalent to:
Associate's degree in Art or a related field with coursework in art, ceramics, and/or sculpture; and two years practical experience working with ceramics.

• Principles, practices, procedures, and equipment used in various ceramic and sculpture processes and techniques, including clay and glaze chemistry.
• Safety regulations involving materials and equipment used in a ceramics classroom/laboratory.
• Basic record-keeping techniques.
• Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary.
• District organization, operations, policies, and objectives.
• Basic computer operation.
• Oral and written communication skills.
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.
• Proper methods of storing equipment, materials, and supplies.

• Perform specialized and technical duties to assure efficient ceramics classroom/laboratory operation.
• Provide information and assistance to students and staff in the ceramics subject area.
• Safely operate, maintain, and demonstrate the use of specialized equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Maintain ceramics classroom/laboratory equipment in proper working order.
• Operate a computer terminal and related software applications.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Work independently with little direction.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Meet schedules and timelines.

• Work direction, lead and supervisory responsibilities:
  Not applicable – no permanent full-time staff to supervise.
• Contacts:
  Instructors, student worker, students, vendors, other departmental personnel.

• Ceramics classroom/laboratory, storage areas, and outdoor kiln areas.
• Exposure to fumes and potentially hazardous chemicals.

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment.
• Lifting and carrying heavy objects.
• Loading and unloading kilns.
• Climbing a ladder.
• Pushing and pulling carts.
• Frequent standing, walking, stooping, bending, kneeling, and squatting.

Antelope Valley Community College District (AVC) is committed to employing administrators, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student success. AVC recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters cultural awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students. AVC is committed to hiring processes that support equal opportunity, diversity, and provide equitable consideration for all candidates as required in federal and state laws and regulations.