Job Title: Part-time Art Teacher (Photography)

Location: The Creative Lab, Santa Barbara, CA
Job Type: Part-time, Competitive Hourly Pay (6-month commitment minimum)
Schedule:

  • 2.5 hours per afternoon, Monday through Friday (after school hours)

  • 7 hours during school breaks (summer, winter, spring, etc.)

About The Creative Lab

The Creative Lab is a unique and inspiring sanctuary where children, families, and individuals learn, grow, and express themselves through artistic exploration and play. Our hands-on experiences foster confidence, curiosity and personal expression while nurturing essential social-emotional learning (SEL) skills. We believe that everyone possesses a one-of-a-kind creative spirit and wholeheartedly celebrates the journey of self-discovery, genuine connection, and the pure joy of making.


About The Role

We are seeking a creative, passionate Part-time Art Teacher for our Photography classes at The Creative Lab. This individual will help guide children through the exciting world of photography, teaching them how to use cameras, experiment with composition, and explore storytelling through photos. The ideal candidate is an artist with photography experience who has a strong understanding of various photography techniques and enjoys working with children. They will be eager to inspire kids (ages 8-16) and introduce them to the art of photography, all while fostering creativity and building their confidence.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead Photography Lessons (Lesson Plans Provided):

    • Teach engaging, age-appropriate photography lessons using provided lesson plans and structured activities designed to introduce kids to the fundamentals of photography in a fun and interactive way.

    • Encourage exploration and experimentation rather than focusing on technical perfection.

  • Facilitate Creative, Hands-On Activities:

    • Use photo scavenger hunts, light experiments, storytelling challenges, and themed photo projects to introduce students to photography in a playful and accessible manner.

    • Guide students in capturing images that express their unique perspectives and creative voices.

  • Support Student Growth & Manage Classroom:

    • Create a positive, welcoming, and inclusive learning environment where all students feel encouraged and valued.

    • Support students in developing social-emotional learning (SEL) skills such as self-confidence, communication, and creative problem-solving through photography.

  • Provide Instruction & Feedback:

    • Teach students how to use point-and-shoot cameras, DSLR settings, and smartphone photography tools based on class needs.

    • Offer constructive, encouraging feedback to help students refine their skills and storytelling abilities.

  • Guide Projects & Showcase Student Work:

    • Help students develop and curate photography projects, whether it’s a photo series, collage, or storytelling portfolio.

  • Collaborate with Team & Maintain Materials:

    • Work closely with the studio team to align with The Creative Lab’s mission, contribute ideas to enhance the curriculum and to showcase student work in exhibitions or digital displays.

    • Ensure that The Creative Lab’s photography equipment (cameras, accessories, and editing tools) is well-maintained and organized and assist in the setup and care of materials for each class.

Qualifications

  • Experience:

    • 5+ years proven experience in photography, with knowledge of various camera types (point-and-shoot, DSLR, smartphone) and editing tools.

    • 2-3 years experience teaching or working with children, preferably in a creative or artistic setting.

    • Ability to demonstrate photography techniques and explain them in an engaging and easy-to-understand way for children.

  • Passion for Working with Kids:

    • A genuine love for teaching and inspiring children, especially in a creative environment.

    • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with children and create a supportive, positive classroom environment.

  • Availability:

    • Flexible and available for 2-3 hours in the afternoons (Monday-Friday) during the school year, as well as 7 hours during school breaks.

  • Commitment:

    • Ability to commit to at least 6 months, with the desire for a longer-term relationship with The Creative Lab.

  • Additional Qualifications:

    • Experience in teaching photography or working with children in an art-based environment.

    • Experience with photography editing software, such as Lightroom or Photoshop.

    • First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).

Why Join The Creative Lab?

  • Inspiring Environment:
    Be part of a creative team dedicated to helping kids explore their artistic potential and express themselves through photography. You'll help shape their creative journey by empowering them to develop their own visual storytelling skills.

  • Creative Freedom:
    As a photography teacher, you’ll have the opportunity to bring your own creative style to the classes, designing engaging and exciting projects that inspire kids to experiment and think outside the box.

  • Professional Growth:
    As we continue to grow, there will be opportunities to expand your role, refine your teaching practices, and contribute to the development of new photography programs.

  • Supportive Team:
    Join a supportive, collaborative team that values creativity, respect, and professional development. You'll be working with other passionate educators in a dynamic and growing studio.

  • Competitive Hourly Pay:
    We offer competitive hourly pay to ensure that our teachers are fairly compensated for their time, creativity, and expertise.

How to Apply

If you’re passionate about photography, love working with children, and want to inspire the next generation of young artists, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume, along with a cover letter explaining your experience, your passion for photography, and why you’re excited to join The Creative Lab at team@thecreativelabart.com.