Clay/Ceramics Volunteer Instructor

Clay/Ceramics Volunteer Instructor

Department: Programs (Expressive Arts)

Location: CSCAZ–Phoenix (on site) and occasional outreach locations

Reports to: Senior Manager, Program Operations (or designee)

Schedule: 1–2 classes/month; 2–3 hours per class (including setup/cleanup)

Status: Volunteer, unpaid

Role Summary

The Clay/Ceramics Volunteer Instructor leads hands-on, beginner-friendly ceramics sessions that foster creativity, connection, and stress relief for people impacted by cancer (participants, caregivers, and survivors). You’ll create a welcoming, inclusive studio environment and guide participants through simple projects while supporting CSCAZ’s mission to provide no-cost programs that restore hope and reduce isolation.

What You’ll Do

• Plan and facilitate clay/ceramics workshops (hand-building; optional wheel if available).
• Demonstrate techniques (pinch, coil, slab, texture, surface decoration) and adapt projects for all skill levels.
• Prepare the room, materials, tools, and sample projects; manage class pacing and accessibility.
• Provide supportive, trauma-informed encouragement and one-on-one guidance.
• Monitor safe tool/materials use; supervise kiln workflow (if applicable) or coordinate firing with CSCAZ staff/partners.
• Handle basic studio logistics: clay reclaim, labeling work, drying/storage, and post-class cleanup.
• Track attendance and simple outcomes (e.g., sign-in sheet, class notes).
• Collaborate with staff on supply needs and future class themes.
• Model CSCAZ values of compassion, inclusivity, and respect.

Qualifications

• Experience teaching or assisting in ceramics, community art, or K–12/adult arts education.
• Comfortable instructing mixed-ability groups; patient and positive communicator.
• Knowledge of hand-building fundamentals; glaze/surface basics a plus.
• Safety-minded; familiar with clay dust mitigation and safe studio practices (no dry sweeping, proper cleanup, etc.).
• Reliable, punctual, and organized.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.
• Lived experience with cancer communities is welcome but not required.

Time Commitment

• Minimum 3-month commitment preferred.
• Typical class: 90 minutes instruction + 30–60 minutes setup/cleanup.
• Optional prep time to design projects and coordinate materials.

Training & Support

• Orientation to CSCAZ programs, participant population, and trauma-informed facilitation.
• Studio orientation (materials, tools, storage, housekeeping, and firing workflow).
• Ongoing staff support; curriculum templates and project ideas provided.

Materials & Safety

• CSCAZ provides core supplies (clay, basic tools, slips/underglazes, glazes) or reimburses pre-approved purchases.
• Follow studio safety practices: wet-clean surfaces, contain dust, label works, and store materials properly.
• Kiln operation managed per CSCAZ policy (by trained staff/volunteer or partner studio).

Screening Requirements

• Volunteer application and interview.
• Reference check and background check (no cost to volunteer).
• Signed volunteer handbook and studio safety acknowledgment.

Benefits

• Make a direct impact on the emotional well-being of people impacted by cancer.
• Build teaching experience in a supportive community setting.
• Training, staff support, and letters of service/volunteer verification upon request.
• Opportunity to showcase sample work and co-develop new class themes.

How to Apply

Email volunteers@cscaz.org with the subject “Clay/Ceramics Volunteer Instructor” and include:

• A brief note about your ceramics/teaching experience
• 1–3 photos or links to sample projects (optional)
• Your general availability (days/times)