Job Advert
Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) is an exciting, ambitious arts centre which offers a wide array of free exhibitions, theatre, music, cinema and comedy performances as well as creative learning and participation activities. We run around arts 150 courses every week ranging from pottery, dance, jewellery and beyond. We are currently recruiting for Visual Arts Technician (Learning and Participation) to work on Saturdays in our technical resources department.
The Visual Arts Technician (Learning and Participation) is responsible for the delivery of high-quality technical services relating to the learning programme and visual arts studios.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Technical Support
* Carry out general practical running and maintenance of the Ceramics; Textiles; Jewellery; Painting and Drawing Studios and any other spaces as required.
* Routine cleaning and tidying of studios, maintaining good standards in these areas.
* Loading and firing of gas and electric kilns.
* Safe storage and care of materials and equipment.
* Glaze mixing and application.
* Mixing of print materials and inks.
* Clay reclamation and pugging.
* Carry out the movement of loads, set up furniture and technical equipment.
* Provide technical support to the course programme; visual artists in residence and other groups using MAC's visual arts studios.
* Assist with exhibitions as necessary.
Maintenance
* Operate, maintain and repair the equipment within the Department's control, or recommend when outside assistance may be required.
* PAT testing of electrical equipment.
* Carry out basic woodworking tasks.
* Monitor and clean clay traps.
* Basic decorating and painting.
* Keep good standards of housekeeping, ensuring studios and storage spaces are kept clean and tidy.
Health and Safety
* Follow established safe working practices in the pursuance of duties and adhere to MAC's Health and Safety policy.
* Report any incidents or concerns in line with MAC's procedures.
* Understand and implement risk assessments for spaces and activities.
Working with others
* Work alongside the other technical teams at MAC, sharing knowledge and expertise.
* Liaise with Artist Tutors and ensure they receive appropriate technical support.
* On occasion deputise for the Senior Visual Arts Technician (L&P)
General
* Keep up to date with technical advances and practices related to the job role.
* Ensure that the centre works as an effective and welcoming base and that facilities and services are appropriately provided.
* Participate in training and development activities as required and to assist with the training and development of colleagues as appropriate.
* Implement MAC's Environmental Policy and consider how this role can contribute to MAC's sustainability goals.
* Further, promote and ensure the implementation of the equal opportunities, diversity, safeguarding and health & safety policies of MAC.
Any other duties which may reasonably be required to support cross-organisational needs.
Equal Opportunities & Diversity
All staff are expected to further, promote, and ensure the implementation of, the equal opportunities policies of MAC.
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work. We are also committed to ensuring our people are a reflection of the communities we serve. We ensure that our recruitment and promotion processes are fair and open to all.
Note
This job description outlines the principal responsibilities and duties of the post holder. It is not meant to be, nor is it, an exhaustive list of specific responsibilities and duties. The post holder will be expected to undertake any other duties which could reasonably be expected as being within the remit of the post and which arise out of changes in legislation, regulations, orders, rules and working practices, methods and procedures and reviews, as directed from time to time.
Hours of work will include weekend and evening work.
Whilst we recognise the development of AI in the modern workplace, we would encourage you to take the time to complete your application without the use of AI; no generative AI tool can create the personal touch that you can inject into your own application.
Person Specification
Core
(You should meet most of these requirements)
Desirable
(You should meet some of these requirements)
Education
* Level 2 or above qualification in any subject.
* Qualification in visual arts or related subject.
Professional Experience
* Experience providing technical support in a visual arts studio or similar environment.
* Studio maintenance and equipment repair.
* Experience in an educational or community arts setting.
Knowledge
* Operation of gas and electric pottery kilns.
* Understanding of Health and Safety in a studio environment.
* Specific knowledge in Textiles; Jewellery; Painting & Drawing; Printmaking.
* Specialist ceramics knowledge such as glaze mixing and application.
Skills & Abilities
* Ability to fault-find; identify and execute solutions for technical equipment.
* Good communication skills.
* Able to lift and move awkward and heavy loads.
* Strong practical skills using a variety of art materials and techniques.
Personal Attributes
* Organised and practical with consistent attention to detail.
* Able to work independently while recognising when to seek guidance.
* Able to maintain consistent standards of work while carrying out both routine and more specialist tasks.
* Proactive approach, positive and patient attitude.
Values & Behaviours
* Commitment to equal opportunity and inclusion with consideration to how the studios serve their users.
* Upholds a high standard of cleanliness and organisation.
* Works towards sustainability initiatives.
* Willing to learn and adapt to new technical practices.
Other Requirements
* Willingness to work flexible hours.
How to Apply
To apply for this post please follow the link below and follow the application process.
Please note that all applications are anonymised during the shortlisting stage. Any attached CVs will not be used at the shortlisting stage, so please ensure you complete the application fully and include all of your experiences, qualifications and any skills you have that would help us when considering you for this role.
Deadline
All applications must be received no later than 11:59am on Wednesday 8 October 2025.
Please be aware that we may close this vacancy before the stated deadline if we receive a high number of applications. We strongly advise you to submit your application as early as possible. Late applications will not be considered.
Short-listing
Shortlisted candidates will be informed at the latest by Thursday 9 October 2025.
Interviews
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview on Thursday 16 October 2025.