Hand-Builder/Ceramics Co-Curricular Instructor

Position Summary

Hawai?i Preparatory Academy (HPA) seeks an enthusiastic and skilled Hand-Builder / Ceramics Co-Curricular Instructor to mentor and lead high school students in our emerging hand-building ceramics program. This role is a unique opportunity to support student learning within a collaborative, creative, and culturally rich environment, bridging the gap between technical skill and artistic expression.

The athletic and after-school co-curricular program at HPA provides all students with an opportunity to participate in a variety of interscholastic/intramural sports and activities. Students at HPA meet the physical education department credit requirement with their participation in the school's athletic and/or co-curricular program.

Key Responsibilities

• Instruction & Mentorship: Lead 9th–12th grade students in foundational and advanced techniques, including hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing, and firing processes.

• Safety & Stewardship: Provide comprehensive instruction in tool safety and studio protocols. Ensure students maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace at all times.

• Program Development: Assist in managing studio inventory, clay preparation (reclaiming), and kiln firing schedules (electric kiln).

• Collaboration: Work alongside the Arts Department to integrate ceramics into the broader co-curricular landscape, fostering a supportive atmosphere for student artists.

Qualifications

• Technical Expertise: Proficiency in various hand-building, ceramic processes and studio management.

• Teaching Skills: Ability to work effectively with young adults in a workshop or studio setting. Prior experience working with high school students is preferred.

• Communication: Strong interpersonal skills and a genuine enthusiasm for working with high school students in a mentorship capacity.

• Student-Centered Approach: A collaborative spirit and a commitment to HPA’s values of Culture, Belonging, and community engagement.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with kiln maintenance and specialized firing techniques.

• A portfolio of personal work or previous student work demonstrating technical proficiency.

• Previous experience in a community-focused educational environment.

Schedule & Commitment

• Term: August through May (Academic Year).

• Academic Calendar: Three 10-week Co-Curricular Terms

  • Fall Term, Winter Term, Spring Term

  • Winter Break and Spring break

• Core Hours: Monday through Friday, 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM.

• Additional Hours: Weekend Open Studio Hours (TBD).

• Future Opportunities: Potential for supplemental hours to support a prospective community-based program, contingent upon candidate interest and qualifications.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $2,500 per term. In addition to monetary compensation, the successful candidate will have access to the studio and studio resources for their own professional work and artistic development. Additionally, please see above, future opportunities (community-based program)

HPA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, sex including gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with a disability, marital status, arrest and court record, credit history, status as a victim of domestic or sexual violence, among other things, as provided for by State and Federal law status, arrest and court record, credit history, status as a victim of domestic or sexual violence, among other things, as provided for by State and Federal law.