Glass Coordinator Assistant

Make lives meaningful through making.

Who We Are

Penland School of Craft is an international center for craft education offering residential workshops, residencies, community education programs, and exhibitions. Located on 420 acres in the NC Mountains, Penland has 16 teaching studios and 60 historic and contemporary buildings. We are an equal-opportunity employer with a staff of 50+. Penland operates with a $54 million endowment and an annual operating budget of $8.4 million. We are located about an hour northeast of Asheville, NC. 

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

At Penland School of Craft, we believe that fostering a climate of equity, inclusion, diversity, and antiracism are essential to our work. We are committed to creating a campus community free of discrimination, and we welcome everyone who supports this commitment. 

Black, Indigenous, Latine, Asian, and other people who identify as people of color or BIPOC individuals are encouraged to apply, as are people holding other marginalized identities related to gender, sexual orientation, ability, and class background.

Reports to:  Glass Studio Coordinator Department: Programs Employment Status: Temporary Full-time - up to 40 hours per week

FLSA Status: Non-exempt/Hourly Start & End Date: May 19 - August 19, 2025 Last Updated:  February 12, 2025

Position Summary

The summer glass coordinator assistant will support the glass studio coordinator and glass studios during our busy 2025 summer months. This position will assist in the maintenance and support of our glassblowing, casting, flamework, and mixed media classes in the glass studios. This is a great position for someone pursuing studio management experience in glass.

 

Primary Responsibilities working with the Glass Studio Coordinator

• Assist in the maintenance, cleaning, and repair of glassblowing equipment, including furnaces, torches, blowpipes, punty rods, and other tools used in the studio. Ensure that all equipment is in good working order for use during classes and studio time.
• Organize and maintain an inventory of glass materials, including clear and colored glass batch materials, clear borosilicate tubing and rod as well as other glass-making supplies. Keep the studio well-stocked with necessary materials and assist in the ordering of supplies when needed.
• Assist in mixing colored glass batches according to studio specifications. Ensure that glass is properly prepared and ready for use in classes working in the studio.
• Assist and support the charging and maintenance of the glass furnaces to ensure the proper temperature and consistency of the glass. Monitor furnace levels and assist in the replenishment of glass as necessary. 
• Oversee the maintenance and organization of the batch room. Ensure that all raw materials, chemicals, and dry powders are stored safely, labeled, and accounted for.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the studio, including tools and equipment. Help set up for classes and clear the studio space afterward.
• Ensure that materials and tools are readily available for instructors and students during classes and provide support where needed. 
• Ensure that all safety procedures are followed in the studio, including the proper handling of glass materials, tools, and equipment. Assist in maintaining a safe environment by monitoring and adhering to safety protocols.
• Support the studio coordinator in daily tasks and studio operations. Provide assistance with special projects, studio maintenance, and any other duties as assigned.
• Performs additional duties as required

Qualifications

• A commitment to uphold and implement Penland’s mission, educational philosophy, and diversity & inclusivity statement
• Familiarity and comfort working in a teaching studio and with the technical processes, equipment, and terminology specific to a glass studio; minimum 2 years of glass experience is expected. Basic knowledge of glassblowing equipment, furnaces, and related tools.
• Excellent verbal communication skills and positive professional behavior; comfort in communicating needs and expectations with staff, instructors, and students.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of individuals.
• Understanding and ability to conform to safety protocols and studio best practices.
• Organization and time management skills; attention to detail and accuracy.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with a focus on safety and cleanliness.
• Ability to follow instructions and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience mixing colored glass or working with glass batches, knowledge of furnace charging, and maintaining glassworking tools and equipment preferred.
• Basic understanding of Neon processes and Equipment is a big plus.

 

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, this position regularly required the use of hands to handle or touch objects, tools, or controls. This position is frequently required to stand,  walk, bend, and walk unaided up and down hills and over uneven terrain. They regularly lift and/or move objects weighing up to 75 pounds. This position needs to be able to talk fluently and hear. Specific vision required by this job includes close vision. 

 

Benefits

If needed, room and board is available as part of this position. As a temporary staff member, this position receives discounts at the supply store, coffeehouse, gallery, and kids camp. This position will be eligible for a prorated sick leave and covered by worker’s compensation insurance.  

 

Compensation

This is a full-time, temporary non-exempt position that works up to 40 hours per week, totaling 520 hours from May 19 - August 19, 2025.  The starting wage for this non-exempt position is $16.40.