Glass Art Kalamazoo (GAK) is a nonprofit community arts education studio located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Our mission is to enrich the community by providing exceptional experiences in glass art. Classes are offered in glass blowing, flame working, bead making, cold working, and kiln fusing. In addition to hands-on art classes, GAK presents art exhibitions, hosts visiting artists, and provides outreach to the community through programs like Journey Beads, our partnership with Bronson Children’s Hospital to create beads for children with cancer. The Studio Manager will join a team of arts professionals committed to Glass Art Kalamazoo’s vision of being a recognized destination where everyone can experience and create glass art.
Glass Art Kalamazoo is searching for a full-time Glass Art Studio Manager/Glass Blower. This position is a key leadership role that oversees daily operations of the studio and educational programming. In this role, you will interact with youth and adults, aspiring artists, and a community of professional glass artists.
As the Studio Manager, you will manage the glass art studio operations as it pertains to maintenance, educational programming, and renters, including the hot shop, flame working studio, kiln fusing studio, and cold shop. This position oversees maintenance of the hot shop furnace, glory holes, kilns, torches, and other miscellaneous equipment. As Studio Manager, you will be responsible for maintaining the program calendar (with assistance from the Program Assistant) and supervising the part-time instructors and part-time studio technician. The Studio Manager also organizes the studios for instructional, rentals, and event needs; oversees supply ordering within the parameters of a nonprofit budget; ensures the highest level of health and safety standards in all studio areas; and, provides training to clients and staff as needed on proper studio practices, policies, and procedures. Glass Blower responsibilities include teaching glass blowing students in both make-your-own and extended workshops as well as private events, teaching and/or assisting during demonstration events, production, and supporting fundraising events.
Qualifications: The qualified candidate will possess the following:
- Combination of education, training, and experience equivalent to 5 years of glass blowing experience and 2 years of studio manager experience. Understand the glass charging process thoroughly and can perform this task as needed or train studio tech to perform.
- Possess an in-depth understanding of hot shop, flame studio, kiln fusing studio, and cold shop operations and equipment, including maintenance and repairs.
- A Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in glass art or related field of study is preferred but not required. Experience in working in a studio art and/or not-for-profit environment could be helpful.
- Ability to operate office equipment and general Microsoft office programs, and lift up to 50 lbs. is necessary. Ability to withstand long periods of standing and high temperatures.
Compensation: 40 hours/week salaried position. Starting Salary Range: $52,000-$55,000 dependent on skills and experience. Employee health insurance included. Generous paid time off and paid studio time policies. First right of refusal for commission pieces. Weekend and some evening work is required. The Studio Manager reports to the Executive Director.
Non-Discrimination Policy: Glass Art Kalamazoo will not discriminate on the basis of religion (creed), race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, marital status, height, weight, arrest record, genetic information, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients. Glass Art Kalamazoo is an equal opportunity employer.
Please send resume and cover letter expressing why you are interested in this position to Carrie Vanderbush, Executive Director at [email protected].
Applicants are encouraged to apply by April 30. This position is open until filled.