Job Description: Glassblowing Instructor & Studio Manager
Location: Little Black Pearl, Chicago, IL
Position Type: Full-time / Part-time (Flexible)
Reports to: Executive Director
About Little Black Pearl
Little Black Pearl (LBP) is a cultural arts center dedicated to fostering creativity, economic mobility, and artistic innovation in historically underserved communities. With a strong commitment to education and workforce development, LBP provides hands-on artistic training, mentorship, and professional pathways in the creative industries.
We are seeking a Glassblowing Instructor & Studio Manager to lead our glassblowing program, providing high-quality instruction to students of all skill levels while managing the operations of our glass studio. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced glass artist and educator to help expand the accessibility of glassblowing, mentor young artists, and contribute to the vibrant creative community at LBP.
Key Responsibilities
Instruction & Program Development (50%)
- Develop and teach glassblowing courses for youth, emerging artists, and community members.
- Provide individualized coaching and mentorship to students, supporting skill development and creative exploration.
- Plan and implement curriculum for workshops, courses, and special events, ensuring alignment with LBP’s mission.
- Organize and oversee demonstrations, community engagement events, and exhibitions showcasing student work.
- Collaborate with other LBP instructors and artists to integrate interdisciplinary projects across various artistic mediums.
Studio Management & Safety (30%)
- Oversee daily operations of the glassblowing studio, ensuring a safe and efficient workspace.
- Maintain and repair studio equipment, including furnaces, kilns, annealers, and tools.
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and best practices for glassblowing and hot shop operations.
- Manage studio inventory, ordering supplies and materials as needed.
- Train staff, students, and visiting artists on proper use of equipment and safety protocols.
Community Engagement & Program Expansion (20%)
- Develop and cultivate partnerships with local artists, schools, and organizations to expand access to glassblowing education.
- Assist with grant writing and fundraising efforts to support studio growth and scholarship opportunities.
- Promote LBP’s glassblowing program through social media, community events, and public demonstrations.
- Support the development of apprenticeship and workforce training programs to provide professional pathways for young artists.
Qualifications
- Proven experience in glassblowing (hot shop experience required); at least 3-5 years as a practicing glass artist or instructor.
- Experience teaching glassblowing or working in an educational setting (community-based programs, art schools, or universities preferred).
- Strong knowledge of studio operations, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols.
- Passion for mentorship, education, and making glass arts accessible to diverse communities.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to collaborate across disciplines and integrate glass arts into broader creative programming.
- Experience in fundraising, grant writing, or program development is a plus.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience – the salary range for the position is 45k-60k
- Opportunities for professional development and artistic residencies.
- Access to studio facilities for personal work outside of instructional hours.
- A dynamic and supportive creative community.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following:
- Resume/CV detailing relevant experience.
- Portfolio or website link showcasing glassblowing work.
- Cover letter explaining your teaching philosophy and vision for the glass program at LBP.
Send applications to [insert contact email] with the subject line “Glassblowing Instructor & Studio Manager Application”.
Join Us!
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a growing arts institution dedicated to creativity, education, and innovation. We welcome passionate individuals who are ready to inspire the next generation of glass artists while helping to expand the accessibility and impact of glassblowing in Chicago.