Director of Studio Operations & Facilities

Position Details

Location: Berkeley, CA

Type: Full-time, Exempt

Schedule: 5 days/week (including some weekends), 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Reports to: Executive Director

Start Date: As soon as available

Application Deadline: Open until filled

About The Potters' Studio

The Potters' Studio (TPS) is a nonprofit ceramics studio and creative community in Berkeley, California. Since 1971, we've served artists, students, and the public through classes, workshops, membership, and events. As we continue to grow in our expanded facility, we are focused on operational excellence, sustainability, and delivering an inspiring environment where creativity thrives. Our mission is rooted in access, artistic growth, and shared learning.

About the Role

We're seeking a skilled and collaborative Director of Studio Operations & Facilities to lead the day-to-day operations of our dynamic ceramics studio. This key leadership position is responsible for maintaining the studio's technical infrastructure, supervising a team of Studio Technicians, coordinating with our work-trade volunteers, and ensuring safe and sustainable operations. This role is ideal for someone with strong management experience in arts, nonprofit, educational, or hospitality environments-who thrives in hands-on settings and values community, creativity, and care.

Key Responsibilities

Studio Operations (Daily Oversight)

• Manage studio equipment, kilns, firing processes, and ceramics infrastructure.
• Supervise and support a team of 7 Studio Technicians and a rotating group of work-trade members.
• Oversee inventory, materials, and firing workflow logistics.
• Collaborate with the Programs team to ensure readiness for classes, workshops, and public use.

Facilities & Safety

• Maintain vendor relationships and coordinate ongoing maintenance, repairs, and renovations.
• Ensure compliance with local and state regulatory agencies (e.g., Cal/OSHA, Fire Department).
• Maintain and update safety documents (IIPP, SDS, WVPP, COVID-19 protocols).

Risk Management & Compliance

• Conduct regular risk assessments and implement safety improvements.
• Review and revise safety policies as operations evolve.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Serve on the Leadership Team and participate in organizational planning.
• Foster a positive and inclusive culture for staff, work-trade crew, and studio members.
• Work cross-functionally with other departments to align facilities with program needs.

Budgeting & Resource Management

• Partner with the Finance team to develop and manage the operations and facilities budget.
• Track expenses, plan capital improvements, and optimize resources.

What You Bring

• 7+ years of professional experience, including at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role.
• In-depth knowledge of ceramics studio operations, including kiln maintenance and firing procedures.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Experience in nonprofit administration or arts/hospitality environments.
• Ability to manage budgets and prioritize spending in alignment with organizational goals.
• Commitment to safety, sustainability, and collaborative problem-solving.
• Valid California driver's license and ability to lift up to 75 lbs.

Bonus Skills (Not Required, but Appreciated)

• Experience in facilities planning, renovations, or infrastructure management.
• Certifications such as Cal/OSHA 30, CPR/First Aid, fire safety, forklift training.
• Background in teaching or mentoring in the ceramic arts.
• Familiarity with community-access studio models or educational institutions.

Why Work With Us?

• Join a mission-driven arts organization with deep community roots
• Collaborate with a passionate and dedicated team
• Shape the future of a beloved and growing nonprofit studio
• Health and wellness benefits
• A flexible, creative, and values-driven workplace

How to Apply

Please submit your résumé and a short cover letter using the application website URL. Tell us why this role speaks to you and how your experience connects with The Potters' Studio's mission. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We look forward to hearing from you!