Ceramic Production Team Member

Rookwood Pottery is a 140-year-old company located in Cincinnati’s historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. We are seeking dependable, quality-focused individuals to join our Ceramic Production team and learn the Rookwood process for creating handmade architectural tile, pottery, and dinnerware.

Ceramic Production Associates may work in different areas of production based on operational needs. The ideal candidate enjoys hands-on work, takes pride in craftsmanship, and works well as part of a team. Previous manufacturing or ceramics experience is helpful but not required. Rookwood provides the necessary training.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Depending on production needs and assigned work area, responsibilities may include:

• Create molds and dies for recurring ceramic production runs.
• Form clay tile, pottery, and dinnerware using pressing, slipcasting, jiggering, or jollying processes.
• Hand-cut pressed tile accurately and efficiently.
• Process raw clay using pugmills and other production equipment.
• Load and unload drying boxes and kilns.
• Trim, clean, and refine wet clay products.
• Pull materials from inventory and prepare products according to work orders.
• Apply glaze using methods such as spraying, pouring, dipping, and antiquing.
• Inspect products throughout the production process and identify quality concerns.
• Pack completed orders and prepare them for pickup or delivery.
• Safely operate equipment and use required personal protective equipment.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Communicate production, equipment, safety, or quality concerns to the Team Lead or supervisor.
• Assist in other production areas and perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Manufacturing, ceramics, or other hands-on production experience preferred but not required.
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn production equipment and processes.
• Strong attention to detail, hand-eye coordination, and commitment to quality.
• Ability to follow verbal and written work instructions accurately.
• Ability to recognize problems and request assistance when needed.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to remain organized and manage multiple assigned tasks.
• Basic computer skills.
• Commitment to following all safety policies, procedures, and instructions.
• Willingness to learn, accept feedback, and work in different production areas as needed.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements
The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, including:

• Stand and move throughout an eight-hour shift.
• Frequently bend, reach, push, pull, twist, and use hands to handle products, materials, and tools.
• Regularly lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Perform detailed work requiring visual attention and hand-eye coordination.
• Work in a manufacturing environment that is not climate-controlled.
• Work around production equipment, clay, dust, glazes, kilns, and varying temperatures while using required safety equipment.

What Success Looks Like
A successful Ceramic Production Associate:

• Takes initiative and remains productive with limited supervision.
• Produces accurate, high-quality work in a timely manner.
• Demonstrates dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Works cooperatively and contributes positively to the team.
• Follows safety procedures and promptly reports concerns.
• Accepts direction, training, and constructive feedback.
• Shows pride in Rookwood’s products and craftsmanship.
• Adapts to changing assignments and production priorities.

Employment Statement
Rookwood Pottery is a drug-free workplace. Employment may be contingent upon the successful completion of job-related pre-employment screening, which may include a background check and drug screening, when applicable.

Rookwood Pottery is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.