Job Description
Role Overview
We are seeking a skilled goldsmith to support Ute Decker’s studio practice. This hands-on assistant role involves working closely alongside Ute to help realise her unique sculptural jewellery pieces and support during exhibitions and studio events.
Key Responsibilities
* Preparing metals and materials for Ute to sculpt.
* Finishing jewellery to the highest standard.
* Precise bench work, including filing, soldering, texturing, and hand-polishing edges.
* Comfortable handling large-scale projects, such as texturing and finishing 5-meter-long wire strips.
* Identifying potential issues in making/working processes before they arise.
* Meticulously checking and refining the finish of final pieces.
* Maintaining accurate records of works, including materials, dimensions, and Fairtrade details (training on Artlogic database will be provided).
* Supporting studio operations, inventory management, client viewings, and exhibition preparations.
* Interacting with clients in a friendly and professional demeanour while helping during Goldsmiths’ Fair and the bi-annual Cockpit Open Studios.
Qualifications
Requirements
* Solid professional, full-time fabrication bench experience (min. 3 years, not suitable for recent graduates).
* Proficiency with gold, silver, and mixed media.
* Exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship.
* Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently as well as closely alongside the artist.
* Experience in calculating dimensions, using materials efficiently, and identifying potential issues during production.
* Organised, proactive, and reliable with excellent communication and time management skills.
Additional Information
What’s on Offer
* The opportunity to contribute to a leading contemporary art jewellery studio known for its sculptural approach and responsible practice, within an internationally exhibiting studio environment.
* A flexible freelance structure, typically averaging 5 studio days per month, increasing up to 8 days during busy exhibition periods.
* An hourly rate of approximately £20/hr, depending on experience and technical proficiency.
How to Apply
If your practice reflects technical precision, sensitivity to material, and exceptional finish, I would be delighted to hear from you. Please submit your CV, a brief cover letter, and 5 high-resolution close-up images demonstrating your bench skills and quality of finish via this SmartRecruiters page:
Please use the following file naming convention for all documents:
FirstNameLastName-ShortTitle.jpg / docx / pdf
Please attach your cover letter in the 'message to hiring team' box. PLEASE do not attach your cover letter separately.
Important Dates
Application deadline: 3 July 2026. Early applications encouraged, as we are keen to fill the position.
Practical interviews: 17/18/20 July (dates may be flexible).
Start Date: end-July or mid-August 2026
Successful candidates are invited to a practical interview / bench test followed by a paid trial period.
Explore Ute's work on utedecker.com
For any questions, email opportunities(at)utedecker.com or call O2O-7354-4237.