[Jewelry making - Article 00093] - Re: [Orchid] Employment in the Metal arts/Jewelery Field

[Elaine Luther]

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    Well, what kind of work do you want? Your question is pretty wide
    open. 

    Hmm. Where to start, where to start? 

    Whether to apply as a bench jeweler? 

    A. Would you be happy doing that kind of work? 

    B. Could you get hired? 

    If yes to A, then sure, try B. However, "decent paycheck" and
    breaking into bench work as an employee somewhere do not always go
    together. 

    Most places have a bench test at the interview. Probably someone on
    this list could tell you what it usually consists of. I've done two
    at interviews, one so long ago I don't remember what I was asked to
    do. The other I remember it was super basic, like drill this piece of
    silver. (No, I didn't take either job.) 

    You've got good technical skills, I bet you could pass a bench test. 

    The bad news is the jobs are not so plentiful. 

    Not to be discouraging. It's possible. 

    Look for openings, network, meet people, join all the professional
    associations and go to the meetings, hand out your card and resume.
    Attend the upcoming SNAG conference, do the same. Send out
    unsolicited letters and follow up. Better, get personal
    introductions. 

>     So let me know what you think, I really love this field I really
>     want to be a part of it, even if its a peon in training or someone
>     to take me under there wing and show me all of their secrets.... 

    This is possible, but it generally doesn't pay much. I worked as an
    apprentice downtown. Loved that job. One of the best jobs I ever had.
    Learned so much, so fast. I'd tell you how much I got paid, but I am
    too embarrassed to do that on an open forum. 

    Start taking pictures! Build the $15.00 photo booth I posted here
    recently. Build your portfolio. If I can take passable pictures,
    anyone can. 

    One of your advantages is that you do have some wax/casting
    experience, so you're not just bench work. Maybe try a casting house.
    I've known others in Chicago to break into the industry through a
    casting house. 

    One of the barriers to employment in the jewelry industry is not
    being "known," getting in _someplace_ even if in sales or something
    else you don't want to do, will help you get known. 

    Once someone has employed you and you've passed the paper and pencil
    honesty test, others will be more willing to hire you, and maybe you
    can make the leap to the bench. 

    Another thing in your favor is you've got the "bug" and you can't
    keep away. Others can see that and often like to encourage others
    with the same affliction. Dedication and perseverance are always
    good, and you've got them. 

    Good luck, and feel free to pester me off line with more questions, 

Elaine

Elaine Luther
Metalsmith, Certified PMC Instructor
http://www.CreativeTextureTools.com (TM)
Hard to Find Tools for Metal Clay
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