Glassblower, Greenfield Village (2025)

The Henry Ford is a nonprofit organization, an internationally recognized cultural destination, and a one-of-a-kind workplace. Our team is inspired daily by one another as well as the authentic stories of innovation that we share across our four venues. We want you to be a part of this legacy and take it forward.

As a Glassblower working with our Crafts and Trades team, you will produce glass products for sale and work with the Studio Supervisor and the Head of Exhibitions and Performances to ensure the successful operation and delivery of all daily activities or special programs related to the glass shop. This role supports and guides the Assistant Glassblowers in the artistic, creative and technical processes related to the production and presentation of glass in Greenfield Village. Oversees product development and creative output in coordination with the Studio Supervisor, Head of Exhibitions and Performances, and Retail operation. Is accountable for the successful execution of all glass shop team functions. Reports to Shop Supervisor/Master Glass Blower.

Essential Responsibilities
Models a high level of glassblowing skill through the execution of the entire product line at an 80% first quality accuracy
Ensures that glass quality, consistency, and craftsmanship are maintained by following the predetermined guidelines for production.
Stays current with curriculum and developments in glass education and in glassblowing skills and techniques.
Is knowledgeable and skilled in glass furnace operations and glass equipment maintenance and repair.
Works with Shop Supervisor and Head of Exhibitions and Performances to ensure the physical presentation, maintenance, and repair of the building, equipment, and tools. Complies with OSHA and SDS standards.
Demonstrates glassblowing techniques to the public, delivers presentations and provides hospitality and service to all visitors. Communicates and models appropriate presentation and customer-focused behaviors for glass team.
Works with the Studio Supervisor and the Head of Exhibitions and Performances to ensure training and management of all glass shop staff and participates in the recruitment and selection of new glass shop team members.
Works with the Shop Supervisor to design new retail collections.
Works to ensure communication and teamwork, and to foster a positive work environment.
Responsible for the maintenance of the shop records and retail inventories.
Ensures the maintenance of furnaces, tools and equipment for the purposes of safety and effectiveness.
Responsible for development of creative work which includes, but is not limited to, publications in any medium, product and program development and design, and all related collateral materials.
Performs other activities as necessary.

Your Qualifications:
BFA in Glassblowing or equivalent production shop experience.
Coursework or research experience in American technological history or the history of glassblowing is desirable.
Demonstrated mastery of glassblowing required.
Weekday, weekend, evening, and holiday availability required.

Special Skills
Strong oral and written communication skills, interpersonal skills, and public presentation abilities.
Ability to train, coach, and develop employees.
Ability to manage and work in a team-based environment essential.
Customer service and conflict resolution skills desirable.

This role requires extensive standing, and at times lifting up to 50lbs. The work environment may expose you to intense heat.

The Henry Ford is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Henry Ford prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, genetic information, pregnancy, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, physical/mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, military and veteran status, height, weight or any other such characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. This Policy applies to any employment, donor or volunteering opportunity (including but not limited to recruitment, hire, employment, program participation, promotion, salary, benefits, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment or service as a volunteer).