Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Handling and Moving Objects Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
•   Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
•   Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
•   Performing General Physical Activities Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
•   Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
•   Organising, Planning, and Prioritising Work Developing specific goals and plans to prioritise, organise, and accomplish your work.
•   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
•   Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
•   Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
•   Scheduling Work and Activities Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

Working Life

Ceramics technologists work in the research, development, production and quality control of ceramics and ceramic products. They have a specialist scientific knowledge of inorganic, non-metallic materials. Ceramic materials are used in the manufacture of a wide range of products such as:

• pottery (tableware, washbasins and electrical insulation)
• building materials (bricks, tiles and drains)
• heat resistant materials for furnaces
• electrical and electronic components

Ceramic technologists research, analyse and test raw materials and ceramic products, to determine their structure, and chemical and physical properties. Structures are examined using microscopes and X-ray images.  
 
The technologist selects and uses appropriate tests, to determine the ability of each ceramic product to withstand conditions such as high temperatures, mechanical stress and environmental erosion. Ceramics technologists also devise new, more accurate methods of testing.  
 
In development work, technologists design new ceramic materials to meet certain requirements. Ceramics can be used to make electronic components, superconductors and human joint replacements (as well as the more traditional pottery and building materials). Ceramics technologists work to extend the range of uses further and, where necessary, develop new manufacturing processes and shaping tools.  
 
In production and quality control, ceramics technologists are in direct contact with the manufacturing process. These technologists need to be knowledgeable about every stage of production. Stages include:

• the preparation of raw materials
• the selection of suitable heat treatment
• grinding or machining
• polishing

They deal with problems that arise at any stage of the process and advice on ways of using new ceramics. They may also develop traditional methods to obtain certain results. Quality control work involves testing raw materials and finished products to make sure that they meet the required standards.

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Operate gas or electric kilns to fire pottery pieces.
• Mix and apply glases to pottery pieces, using tools, such as spray guns.
• Raise and shape clay into wares, such as vases and pitchers, on revolving wheels, using hands, fingers, and thumbs.
• Adjust wheel speeds according to the feel of the clay as pieces enlarge and walls become thinner.
• Position balls of clay in centers of potters' wheels, and start motors or pump treadles with feet to revolve wheels.
• Move pieces from wheels so that they can dry.
• Prepare work for sale or exhibition, and maintain relationships with retail, pottery, art, and resource networks that can facilitate sale or exhibition of work.
• Attach handles to pottery pieces.
• Press thumbs into centers of revolving clay to form hollows, and press on the inside and outside of emerging clay cylinders with hands and fingers, gradually raising and shaping clay to desired forms and sises.
• Pack and ship pottery to stores or galleries for retail sale.

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

 Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

Entry to this profession is usually after a degree in a relevant subject. Many ceramics technologists also have a postgraduate qualification. There are a few universities that offer specialist degree courses related to ceramics technology/science. Degrees in materials science/engineering are also relevant.

The usual route towards a career as a ceramics designer is to complete a suitable degree or course.

Some three-dimensional design courses combine ceramics with the study of another material, such as glass, plastic, metal and wood.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: engineering, precision manufacturing, engineering technology, manufacturing technician, maintenance skills technology, quality management, quality assurance, CAD, CNC, design.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: ceramics, design techniques, creative ceramics, fine art, design, ceramics, fine art with ceramics, art. craft and design, product design, manufacture, engineering.

Search for PLC Courses

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: engineering, agricultural, biomedical, energy, manufacturing, mechanical engineering, furniture, digital manufacturing, design engineering, design, ceramics, craft, design.

Search for CAO Courses

Both courses and employment are likely to require portfolios of work. Even if working for yourself you will need to develop a body of work to develop, advertise, and sell.

Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.

Enterprise & Craft Business Development

Engineers Ireland

Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €28k - €45k

Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
Glassdoor/ Payscale/ Indeed

Last Updated: July, 2024

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Artists; Authors; writers; translators; Actors; entertainers; presenters; Dancers; choreographers; Musicians Arts officers; producers; directors; Photographers; audio-visual and broadcasting equipment operators; Graphic designers Product; clothing and related designers.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

Employment grew strongly between 2021 and 2022, with an additional 7,300 persons employed. As illustrated in the CSO Census data below, employment is spread across a number of roles; since 2016, the strongest growth, in absolute terms, was for graphic designers and authors, writers and translators.

New employment permits issued for this occupation in 2022 were primarily for film/TV and animation/visual effects (VFX) roles but also for linguistics experts in the ICT sector. There was also a high volume of recent job hires in line with the recent employment increase. The data does not point to overall issues with recruitment for these roles.

• Design & Craft Council of Ireland

  • Castle Yard, Kilkenny
  • (056) 77 61804
  • Click Here