Program Assistant

The Program Assistant serves as a public face for The Clay Studio (TCS), greeting and serving customers as they enter our retail shop and gallery and through phone and email communications. This position works independently and cooperatively with all TCS Staff. This position requires being respectful, inviting, and approachable at all times while at TCS while actively greeting the public and providing a warm welcome and orientation to TCS and its spaces.

The Program Assistant knows the current inventory and the artists represented in the Shop and Gallery and understands the classes, workshops, checkout procedures, and other programs at the studio. Gaining the trust of artists and clients through honest, timely, and professional communications is a high priority.

The Program Assistant supports the exhibition and retail schedule, classes, and events by assisting with artist correspondence, sales, inventory control, exhibition installation, website maintenance, packing, shipping, supporting evening students and instructors, and administrative responsibilities.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Provide exceptional customer service both in-person and by phone
• Project a friendly and welcoming spirit to visitors
• Assist customers with purchases, from help finding merchandise to efficient checkout and safe purchase wrapping.
• Assist with installation of exhibitions and shop areas
• Communicate professionally and promptly with artists, students, and clients
• Prepare artworks for domestic and international shipping after a training period.
• Enter data and maintain accurate inventory records in our database
• Keep shop and gallery clean and well organized per set standards
• Collect visitor data for relevant reporting (including daily attendance log)
• Train and direct Interns or Volunteers
• Communicate artist bio and conceptual content to a wide variety of visitors
• Support the purchase of clay and supplies for students and answer student and artist questions regarding the programs and school procedures.

Essential Skills:

• Self-motivation and dedication to excellence
• Ability to collaborate effectively and work independently
• A high level of attention to detail
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with a variety of people
• Strong computer competency
• Ability to handle art carefully
• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Ability to climb ladders and stairs regularly
• An understanding of clay techniques and materials

Qualifications (preferred):

• Experience in retail, gallery, or arts organization preferred
• Knowledge of clay techniques and materials

Reporting Relationship:

The Programs Assistant reports to the Retail Manager & Gallery Coordinator and works closely with the Curator of Artistic Programs & Deputy Director.