Job Opening

Technical Specialist Ceramics
32 hours per week or job-share (2 x 16 hours per week)
Starting 15 January 2026

About the Rijksakademie van beeldende kunsten

The Rijksakademie is one of the most renowned international residency programmes for contemporary artists. Approximately 50 artists all over the world spend two years working under optimal conditions on research, experimentation and the production of new work. Our building in Amsterdam houses 50 studios where the artists can work. In addition, there are technical workshops, a library, and a Cantina. A group of advisors supports the artists in their artistic development. The team of 40 staff members consists of specialists who support the artists in various ways and ensure smooth operational management.

The technical workshops of the Rijksakademie have been a place of innovation and experimentation for decades. We have eight specialised workshops: print (graphics and digital printing), paint (paint and chemistry), the media lab (image, sound, digital and 3D), electronics, wood, metal, mould making (plastic and plaster) and ceramics. Each workshop is led by a technical specialist who supports the artists and contributes to interdisciplinary collaboration. External experts are hired when necessary.

What does the position involve?

As a Technical Specialist in Ceramics, you support residents in their research, experiments, and the creation of artworks in ceramic or related materials. You actively share your knowledge and encourage interdisciplinary work, always in an inclusive and respectful collaborative environment. You work closely with artists, fellow specialists, tech fellows, external partners and educational and art institutions.

In addition, you will ensure a safe, well-organised and inspiring workshop. You manage materials and equipment, maintain contact with suppliers and partners, monitor budgets, and build a strong network within the field.

Lastly, you stay up to date with developments in the field, make proposals to further strengthen the workshop, and support freelancers, interns, and volunteers. You identify opportunities, think ahead, and help build an innovative, sustainable, and future-oriented workshop.

Profile

• You have up-to-date and broad knowledge and work experience in all aspects of the ceramic process and a good understanding of the field.
• You preferably have a higher professional education (HBO) level of working and thinking in a relevant technical field.
• You have experience with interdisciplinary projects, collaborating with national and international artists, and translating artistic questions into technical possibilities.
• You are skilled at transferring knowledge and guiding others.
• You are organised and have experience with workshop management and planning.
• You are a team player and communicate clearly and openly.
• You are flexible, practical and hands-on.
• You master both Dutch and English excellently.

What do we offer you?

An inspiring working environment in an internationally renowned organisation. Our culture is informal and ambitious, and leaves room for your own professional ideas and preferences. We are looking for someone to fulfill this role for 32 hours per week, or two candidates to share the position as a duo, each working 16 hours per week. Initially, we offer you a one-year contract, with the prospect of extension. Salary is based on scale 11 (Museum CAO), which means that for a 36-hour work week you will earn between €4,131 and €5,516.

Applying

Have we sparked your enthusiasm about this multifaceted position? Send your CV and a motivation letter of no more than one A4 page to sollicitatie@rijksakademie.nl before Monday 15 December. The first interviews are scheduled for Thursday 18 December. If you have any specific questions, please contact Marianne Peijnenburg, current Technical Specialist Ceramics, at marianne.peijnenburg@rijksakademie.nl.

Finally

The Rijksakademie endorses the Diversity and Inclusion Code. We believe it is important to have a diverse team and to create an inclusive working environment. In this selection procedure, the Rijksakademie will give preference, in case of equal suitability, to a candidate who strengthens diversity within the organisation.