HOT GLASS EXPERIENCE PART TIME INSTRUCTOR

Role Summary

Join the ArtsQuest artistic team as a Part Time Hot Glass Experience Instructor. You will lead high-energy, hands-on "experience" sessions where members of the public create their own glass art. Your primary goal is to provide a safe, educational, and thrilling introduction to the world of molten glass, ensuring every participant leaves with a successful piece and a memorable story.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead 20–30 minute "walk-in" or scheduled glass-blowing experiences (e.g., ornaments, flowers, paperweights).
• Provide clear, concise safety orientations and technical instructions to students of all skill levels and ages.
• Manage all aspects of "gaffer" and "assistant" roles simultaneously while coaching the student through the process.
• Maintain strict studio safety protocols, ensuring heat, tools, and equipment are handled correctly at all times.
• Prepare the hot shop for daily use, including charging the furnace, prepping pipes/pontils, and organizing color stations.
• Manage the annealing process, ensuring student work is properly identified, loaded, and tracked for pickup.
• Serve as an energetic "performer-educator," engaging onlookers and promoting ArtsQuest studio programs.

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong foundation in hot glass techniques (glass blowing, solid working, and color application).
• Proven experience in teaching or public demonstration, with an ability to simplify complex movements for beginners.
• Exceptional "bench side manner" - calm, patient, and encouraging under the heat of the studio.
• Ability to work in a physically demanding, high-heat environment for 6–8 hours.
• Commitment to safety and the ability to anticipate and prevent potential hazards in a public setting.
• Availability for weekend shifts and major ArtsQuest events or festivals.
• At least 2 years of experience working with molten glass.