At a Glance
- Tasks: Craft stunning jewellery and support studio operations in a vibrant creative environment.
- Company: Join Ute Decker, a pioneer in responsible jewellery, at Cockpit Studios, London.
- Benefits: Flexible freelance schedule, competitive pay, and hands-on experience with a leading artist.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and exposure to international exhibitions.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic studio and create exceptional one-off pieces that tell a story.
- Qualifications: 2-3 years of professional bench experience and a keen eye for detail.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Cockpit Studios, Bloomsbury, London
Contract: Freelance – 2 days per week
Job Type: Part Time
Salary: Competitive hourly rate approx. £20/hr
Application Deadline: 3 July 2026 (early applications are warmly encouraged)
Start Date: Flexible, mid-July / August 2026
About Ute Decker
Artist jeweller Ute Decker is known for her one-off and limited-edition award-winning sculptural and architectural pieces; her works are exhibited internationally and found in major public and private collections including the V&A. Within the vibrant creative community of Cockpit Studios in Bloomsbury, Ute, a pioneer of the responsible jewellery movement, hand-sculpts her works, where every detail matters and tells its own story.
Role Overview
We are hiring a skilled and detail-oriented goldsmith/jeweller to join our busy studio. This hands-on assistant role involves working closely with Ute to craft high-quality jewellery, support studio operations, and assist during exhibitions.
Key Responsibilities
- Preparing metals and materials for Ute to sculpt.
- Finishing jewellery to the highest standard.
- Precise bench work, including filing, soldering, texturing, and hand-polishing edges.
- Comfortable handling large-scale projects, such as texturing and finishing 5-meter-long wire strips.
- Identifying potential issues in making/working processes before they arise.
- Meticulously checking and refining the finish of final pieces.
- Maintaining accurate records of works, including materials, dimensions, and Fairtrade details (training on Artlogic database will be provided).
- Supporting studio operations, inventory management, client viewings, and exhibition preparations.
- Interacting with clients in a friendly and professional demeanour while helping during Goldsmiths’ Fair and the bi-annual Cockpit Open Studios.
Requirements
- 2–3 years of professional full-time bench experience (not suitable for new graduates).
- Proficiency with gold, silver, and mixed media.
- Exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently as well as closely alongside the artist.
- Experience in calculating dimensions, using materials efficiently, and identifying potential issues during production.
- Organised, proactive, and reliable with excellent communication and time management skills.
What’s on Offer
- The opportunity to work alongside a leading figure in responsible and sculptural jewellery within a dynamic, internationally relevant studio environment.
- A flexible, freelance schedule tailored to the studio's calendar: typically 5 days a month, increasing up to 8 days a month during busy exhibition periods.
- A competitive hourly rate of approx. £20/hr, commensurate with experience and efficiency.
How to Apply
If you feel you have the skills to help create exceptional one-off and limited-edition pieces, we would like to hear from you. Please submit your CV, a brief cover letter, and 5 high-resolution images showing your technical skills (close-up photos clearly demonstrating quality and finish) by applying through our SmartRecruiter page.
Important Dates
- Application deadline: 3 July 2026. Early applications encouraged, as we are keen to fill the position!
- Practical interviews: 10/11/13 July (dates may be flexible).
- Start Date: mid-July or mid-August 2026
Successful candidates will complete a bench test followed by a paid trial period. Explore Ute’s work on utedecker.com. For any questions, email opportunities@utedecker.com or call 020-7354-4237.
Goldsmith / Jeweller / Studio Assistant employer: Benchpeg Ltd.
Ute Decker offers a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant creative community at Cockpit Studios, Bloomsbury, where you can develop your skills alongside a pioneering artist in responsible jewellery. With a flexible freelance schedule and competitive pay, this role not only allows for personal growth but also immerses you in the dynamic world of sculptural jewellery, making it an ideal environment for passionate artisans seeking meaningful work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Goldsmith / Jeweller / Studio Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get your hands dirty! If you can, visit the studio or similar places to get a feel for the environment. This shows your genuine interest and gives you a chance to connect with the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend exhibitions or events related to jewellery making. Chat with other goldsmiths and jewellers; you never know who might have a lead on a job or even recommend you directly.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Bring along some of your best work when you meet potential employers. A portfolio of high-quality images can really make you stand out and demonstrate your craftsmanship.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and know how to follow instructions—both great traits in a studio assistant!
We think you need these skills to ace Goldsmith / Jeweller / Studio Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:When you send in your application, make sure to include those 5 high-resolution images that showcase your technical skills. We want to see your craftsmanship up close, so pick pieces that really highlight your attention to detail!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Keep it brief but personal, and let us know why you're excited about working with Ute Decker. Mention any relevant experience that aligns with the role, and don’t forget to show your passion for jewellery making.
Follow the File Naming Convention:We love organisation! Make sure to name your files correctly as per the instructions: FirstNameLastName-ShortTitle. This helps us keep everything tidy and makes your application stand out right from the start.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute! Early applications are warmly encouraged, and we’re keen to fill this position. Applying early gives you a better chance to impress us and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Benchpeg Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Craftsmanship
Bring along high-resolution images of your previous work that highlight your attention to detail and craftsmanship. Make sure these images clearly demonstrate the quality and finish of your pieces, as this will be crucial in showcasing your skills to Ute.
✨Know Your Materials
Familiarise yourself with the different metals and materials you’ll be working with. Be prepared to discuss your experience with gold, silver, and mixed media during the interview. This knowledge will show that you’re not just skilled but also passionate about your craft.
✨Prepare for Practical Tests
Since successful candidates will complete a bench test, practice your techniques beforehand. Focus on precise bench work like filing, soldering, and hand-polishing. Being confident in these skills will help you stand out during the practical interview.
✨Engage with the Studio's Ethos
Research Ute Decker’s work and the responsible jewellery movement. Be ready to discuss how your values align with the studio's ethos. Showing that you understand and appreciate the importance of sustainability in jewellery making can set you apart from other candidates.
