Position: Teaching Artist (II), Studio Technician, Studio Art Programs
Casual Employee, In-Person/On-Site, No Benefits, Non-exempt/Hourly
Schedule: 7-12 hrs a week,
Must be available at least one day slot between 10am-4pm, Tuesday to Saturday
And at least one evening slot between 5pm- 8pm Tuesday to Thursday
Pay Rate: $35 Hourly Rate
Applies to all work including technician work, teaching time, prep-time and curriculum development time
About the Richmond Art Center (RAC)
The Richmond Art Center (RAC), a nonprofit organization since 1936, fosters creativity and community through art. We offer classes, exhibitions, and events at our facility, along with free off-site programs for WCCUSD schools, community centers, and the Richmond Public Library. Learn more at richmondartcenter.org/about.
About the Education Department
RAC provides art classes for adults, youth, and families in seven on-site studios, as well as through partnerships with schools and community spaces like RYSE Youth Center, EBCPA, and NIAD. Guided by Community Agreements, we strive to create a welcoming, safe, and supportive environment. Learn more at richmondartcenter.org/education.
Position: Teaching Artist & Studio Technician (II)
Richmond Art Center’s (RAC) Teaching Artists and Studio Technicians play a key role in supporting Education Programs within the Fiber Arts, Jewelry & Metal Arts, Warm Glass, or Printmaking studios. Reporting to the Education Manager, they collaborate with the Education Department to create inclusive programming aligned with RAC’s mission and values, ensuring cultural competency and sensitivity to the diverse Richmond community.
Core Responsibilities
Studio Management:
Oversee studio operations, safety, and resource maintenance on a daily, weekly, and quarterly basis.
Prepare, organize, and reset studio spaces for programs, addressing AV needs and ADA accommodations.
Commit to 3–5 hours of on-site studio technician duties per week during each 8–10 week quarter.
Teaching & Program Development:
Teach a minimum of one 2–3 hour class weekly for 8 weeks per quarter.
Lead one 2–3 hour monitored open studio session weekly for 8 weeks per quarter.
Collaborate with staff to optimize studio resources for community access and engagement.
Work with the Studio Coordinator and Education Manager on program scheduling, planning, and student feedback.
Public Programs & Events:
Support public programs, exhibitions, and annual RAC events through planning and implementation.
General Qualifications
Proven expertise in visual arts media or culturally rooted arts practices, with experience in Jewelry & Metal Arts, Warm Glass, or Printmaking.
Experience managing or coordinating complex studio spaces.
Minimum 1 year of teaching, assisting, or leading inclusive arts programs for diverse communities.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage time-sensitive tasks effectively.
Commitment to RAC’s mission, creating a safe, supportive, and creative learning environment.
Reflective practices to assess curriculum impact and align with Education Department goals.
Capacity to innovate, collaborate, and problem-solve with staff, students, and the wider community.
Specific Studio Technician Qualifications
Jewelry & Metal Arts Appendix B
Skills & Abilities
Technical:
Proficient with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and Zoom
Knowledge of A/V equipment and Adobe Creative Suite is a plus
Soft Skills:
Spanish or Mandarin proficiency preferred
Strong communication, organizational, and independent work skills
Collaborative approach to teamwork and conflict resolution
Valid California driver’s license and reliable vehicle required
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Physical Requirements:
Regularly sit or stand for extended periods, communicate, and use equipment.
Lift up to 50 pounds.
Work Environment:
Moderate office noise; higher levels in studios or community spaces, manageable with PPE.
Must be comfortable working in varied environments (office spaces, public facing front desk spaces and active studio spaces)
To Apply
Richmond residents are encouraged to apply! Send your cover letter and resume to jobsapp@richmondartcenter.org with “Teaching Artist (II) Studio Technician” in the subject line.
Cover Letter: Describe how you meet the qualifications for this role.
Resume: Highlight your experience and qualifications.
Notice: If hired, three we require (3) professional references and require a federal level fingerprinting background check. All positions are subject to a six-month probationary period.
Richmond Art Center is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Jewelry & Metal Arts Studio Technician Appendix B
Education & Experience
Educational Background:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Jewelry & Metal Arts with at least 2 years of recent teaching experience in a classroom setting.
Alternatively, a dynamic studio or professional practice with a minimum of 4 years of recent teaching experience in Jewelry & Metal Arts.
Studio Management & Administration:
Proven experience in:
Independent decision-making and team management.
Building relationships across departments and organizations.
Organizational and task management.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Stewardship of studio facilities, ensuring a well-maintained and safe environment.
Creation and administration of mandatory safety orientations, tests, and updated manuals for students, staff, and volunteers.
Curriculum Development:
Ability to structure curriculum and resources to support RAC’s Education Programs and accommodate diverse field techniques and practices.
Artistic & Technical Expertise
Jewelry & Metal Arts Design:
In-depth understanding and experience in jewelry & metal arts sculpture and design, including functional and non-functional applications.
Familiarity with current methodologies, best practices, and critical issues in the field.
Teaching Skills:
Ability to address the needs of diverse student populations and use effective teaching strategies that encourage retention and engagement.
Specific Technical Knowledge & Expertise
Materials & Techniques:
Advanced soldering and fabrication skills.
Experience with mold-making and metal casting (centrifugal and vacuum casting).
Metal forming techniques, including raising, chasing, repoussé, and die forming.
Basic woodworking skills and maintaining torches, cylinders, regulators, and working surfaces of stakes, anvils, and hammers.
Equipment & Safety:
Proficiency in electric kiln firing techniques, operation, and safety.
Comfort with hand and power tools, including troubleshooting and repair of equipment such as air compressors, kilns, grinders, drill presses, and belt sanders.
Knowledge of health and safety practices, including:
Non-toxic and green studio practices.
Chemical use, fume safety, MSDS, and Hazmat handling/disposal procedures.
Additional Skills (Preferred)
First Aid and CPR training or experience.