Traveling Glassblowing Instructor

Location:

Various U.S. Festivals & Markets (In-Person) Headquarters:
Palatine, IL Pay: $25/hr + Paid Meals + Lodging (when traveling)

Travel Required:

Typically 3–14 days at a time (multiple events per season)

Who We Are

We’re Ikonic Glass—an artist-led team bringing live flame-working experiences to festivals, markets, and events across the country. Our mission is to share the magic of glassblowing with the public while supporting a crew of passionate, professional artists who are building their craft and careers.

We’re not just a team—we’re a movement. We care about craftsmanship, connection, and creating unforgettable experiences. We’re not a pipe company. We’re not a bro crew. We’re a crew of artists helping make glassblowing accessible, safe, and awe-inspiring.

If you love working with glass and people, you might be a perfect fit.

About the Role

As a Traveling Glassblowing Instructor, you’ll lead live torch-based sessions for small groups, guiding students safely and confidently through their first flame-working experience.

What You'll Be Doing

Teaching beginner-level borosilicate glassblowing using a scripted curriculum

Creating a positive, memorable experience for each student

Setting up and tearing down our mobile booth at events

Managing tools, propane/oxygen safety gear, and daily supplies

Helping maintain a clean, efficient, and welcoming workspace

Inventory tracking using our digital system for tools, equipment, and consumables

Working in dynamic, high-energy environments (festivals, crowds, music, etc.)

Traveling across the country potentially for weeks at a time

This is a seasonal W2 position with potential to grow into part-time or full-time work depending on performance, availability, and event schedule.

What We're Looking For

We’re looking for artists with a solid foundation in borosilicate glassblowing who are excited to share their craft and grow with a team.

At least 2 years of experience working with borosilicate glass at the torch

Teaching experience (lampworking or otherwise)

Confident working live and engaging with the public

Friendly, reliable, and calm under pressure

Comfortable in fast-paced event environments

Team-oriented and excited to learn, teach, and contribute

A strong grasp of the fundamentals and the enthusiasm to help others light their flame

Takes safety seriously—especially with fire, tanks, and tools

Thrives in public-facing roles, even when tired, busy, or under pressure

Sees teaching as a chance to uplift others, not just perform

Bonus if you’ve worked in education, live demos, customer service, or festival/event production.

Pay & Perks

$25/hour during events

Paid Training (lower rate)

Meal stipends for all shifts over 4 hours

Lodging covered when travel is required (hotel, Airbnb, or camping, based on event)

All instructors complete OSHA and safety training during onboarding

No personal equipment needed—we provide it all

Training and onboarding support

Access to an incredible artist community and national events

Future growth paths toward team leadership, management, or even launching your own booth with us