Available Positions

Studios Manager

Status: Part-Time. Approximately 20-30 hours per week
Schedule: Seasonal, 10-month position (March–November)
Location: Loudon, New Hampshire
Reports to: Program Manager, Education
Supervises: Volunteers and seasonal studio support staff

Position Summary

The Studios Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient, and professional operation of Sanborn Mills Farm’s traditional and heritage craft studios, including woodworking, blacksmithing/grinding, tin-smithing, fiber arts, dye, weaving/spinning, basketry, and related workshop spaces. This role ensures that all studios, tools, and materials are fully prepared for programs while supporting instructors, students, and guests in delivering exceptional educational experiences.

Working in close collaboration with the Program Manager, Director of Operations, and senior leadership, the Studios Manager upholds the highest standards of safety, operational excellence, and budget stewardship while helping advance Sanborn Mills Farm’s mission of hands-on, heritage craft education.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Studio Operations

• Oversee the day-to-day operation of all studios and workshop locations, ensuring spaces are safe, clean, organized, and fully workshop ready.
• Coordinate studio and space usage with the Program Manager and program team.
• Prepare studios for seasonal programming, including winterization and support of future winter operations.
• Develop and document operational procedures for new studios as educational programs expand.
• Partner with the Director of Operations on environmental, health, safety, and infrastructure needs.

Safety, Risk Management & Compliance

• Maintain compliance with OSHA, federal, and New Hampshire safety standards, including equipment use, PPE, hazard communication, and safe operating procedures.
• Maintain and update Safety Data Sheets (SDS), safety protocols, and equipment operation standards.
• Conduct safety training for instructors, staff, and volunteers.
• Oversee incident reporting, equipment safety, and daily compliance practices.

Inventory, Materials & Loss Prevention

• Conduct annual and biannual inventories of tools, equipment, and materials to ensure safety, accountability, and loss prevention.
• Maintain accurate records and tracking systems for materials and equipment.
• Recommend replacement, repair, and upgrades as needed.

Instructor & Workshop Support

• Serve as the primary operational point of contact for instructors before and during workshops.
• Provide orientation for studios and housing, including setup, tool preparation, and material staging.
• Maintain setup guides, checklists, and orientation materials.
• Ensure a professional, well-organized environment that supports high-quality teaching and strong student experiences.

Equipment & Tool Maintenance

• Oversee maintenance, repair, and safe operation of all studio tools, machinery, and specialized equipment.
• Maintain preventative maintenance schedules and service logs.
• Coordinate facility improvements and equipment upgrade with the Director of Operations.

Procurement, Budget & Program Support

• Track and order supplies, consumables, tools, hardware, raw materials, and specialty equipment.
• Maintain vendor relationships and ensure timely procurement aligned with workshop schedules.
• Partner with the Program Manager on budget preparation, cost projections, and monitoring of studio expenditures.
• Provide inventory data and equipment lists to support planning, grant applications, donor communications, and development initiatives.

Student & Guest Experience

• Support leadership in delivering a welcoming, professional, and well-managed learning environment.
• Assist with workshop openings and provide on-site support to ensure smooth program operations.
• Contribute to evaluation processes and continuous improvement.

Future Winter Programming

• Collaborate with leadership to plan and operationalize winter studios and year-round classes.
• Develop winter-specific operational procedures, including heating, ventilation, equipment conditioning, and safety practices.
• Support evolving staffing models and workflows as programming grows.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain organized digital records, including inventory databases, maintenance logs, and workshop documentation.
• Provide regular reports and updates to the Program Manager and Executive Director.
• Train, supervise, and support volunteers and seasonal staff.

Qualifications

Required

• Demonstrated understanding and appreciation of traditional craft disciplines (e.g., woodworking, blacksmithing, fiber arts).
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lift 40–50 lbs. and perform physical tasks (with reasonable accommodation).
• Proficiency with basic computer tools, spreadsheets, and digital record-keeping.

Preferred

• 3–5 years of experience in studio, workshop, or craft art making–facility management.
• Knowledge of shop and studio safety standards and safe equipment operation.
• Experience in adult education, craft schools, or nonprofit arts or educational environments.
• Experience working with artists, designers, and craftspeople in collaborative settings.
• Familiarity with nonprofit operations, development, or grant writing.

Working Conditions & Schedule

• Flexible schedule required, including weekends and evenings based on workshop activity.  Saturday mornings should be expected along with occasional early evenings.
• Outdoor educational spaces and indoor studio classroom environments with exposure to noise, dust, tools, machinery, and variable temperatures. 
• Outdoor movement between buildings in all weather conditions required.
• Compliance with all SMF safety policies and use of PPE is mandatory.

FLSA Classification

Non-Exempt

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Benefits in accordance with Sanborn Mills Farm personnel policies.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Sanborn Mills Farm is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on any protected basis under federal or New Hampshire law.

Apply

Interested candidates should apply to the Program Manager.  A resume and a cover letter should be sent to marsha@sanbornmills.org   Applications will be accepted until position is filled.