Potters, Manufacturing
Operate production machines such as pug mill, jigger machine, or potter's wheel to process clay in manufacture of ceramic, pottery and stoneware products.
Common Job Titles
- Glazer
- Jiggerman
- Potter
- Production Potter
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of fine arts principles and design aesthetics to create visually appealing and functional ceramic products that meet customer expectations.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate production machinery including pug mills, jigger machines, and potter's wheels in ceramic manufacturing settings, processing clay for pottery and stoneware products.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate clay materials and ceramic workpieces using hand tools and equipment to shape, carve, and finish products according to specifications.Developing
- KnowledgeApply operations monitoring techniques to ensure production machines function correctly and products meet quality standards.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze product quality against established specifications by inspecting ceramic pieces for defects, dimensional accuracy, and finish quality.Developing
- Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and repairs on mechanical equipment including kilns, wheels, and clay processing machinery to ensure continuous operation.Developing
- KnowledgeDemonstrate understanding of ceramic chemistry and material properties when selecting clays, glazes, and firing temperatures for different product lines.Developing
- KnowledgePredict production outcomes and material requirements by estimating quantities, scheduling kiln loads, and planning workflow to meet production targets.Developing
- MindsetEngage with customers and stakeholders to understand product requirements, provide updates, and support sales and marketing efforts.Developing
- Hands-onExecute creative design techniques using carving tools, texturing implements, and decorative application methods to produce unique ceramic pieces.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Potters, Manufacturing (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
34,750
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $34,950. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,500. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,690. 75th percentile: U.S. $51,340. 90th percentile: U.S. $61,050. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $34,950 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $61,050 |
| Workers on average earn | $46,730 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Fine Arts4.0/5
- Production and Processing3.9/5
- Design3.6/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.4/5
- Chemistry3.2/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
Technology Skills
- Inventory control software
Tools & Equipment
- Air cleaners
- Air compressors
- Ball mills
- Banding wheels
- Carving spatulas
- Carving tools
- Ceramics kilns
- Clay cutters