Art Project Manager

Friends of the High Line•New York, NY

About The Position

Reporting to the High Line Art Director of Exhibitions, the Art Project Manager supports the production of High Line Art projects and live events. The role works directly with artists, contractors, fabricators, nonprofit institutions, public and private partners, and galleries. It supervises art commissions from initial concept through fabrication and installation, and oversees day-to-day maintenance of existing artworks and workspaces. The Project Manager is the primary liaison to the High Line’s Maintenance and Operations team and coordinates with facilities, events, and horticulture teams on common-space use and garden access. The role also coordinates with Planning & Design and park Operations to schedule resources and ensure projects are reflected on the institutional master calendar. The successful candidate is expected to take on challenging projects and find unconventional solutions. This is a full-time, non-exempt position, working five days per week, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with select evenings and weekends as needed. The annual salary range is $75,000–$85,000.

Requirements

Three to five years of professional experience in arts project management, exhibition organization, or relevant field experience; candidates are not screened exclusively on these qualifications.
Experience working with artists in a gallery, studio, museum, or fine art institution.
Supervisory experience and ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
Experience developing and managing budgets and working creatively within budget constraints.
Ability to work independently, multitask, solve problems, and collaborate with colleagues, vendors, contractors, designers, and partners at all levels.
Experience working with artists, fabricators, and art installers.
Working knowledge of power tools and general construction methods, and ability to perform outdoor physical tasks during artwork installation and deinstallation.
Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks to meet deadlines.
Excellent attention to detail, creative thinking, problem-solving ability, and a diplomatic attitude.
Excellent negotiation, verbal communication, and written communication skills.
Competency with Microsoft Office Suite, G-Suite, and 2D graphics/design programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, as well as 3D programs such as Rhino, SketchUp, or similar.
Knowledge of contemporary art.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and occasional weekends.
Ability to work outdoors in extreme weather conditions.
Valid New York State driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related area, such as visual arts, project management, construction management, architecture, or design.
Experience working in a cultural institution such as a museum, park, or library.
Knowledge of art fabrication methods and processes.
Understanding of contracts and insurance.

Responsibilities

Research and develop feasibility studies and technical implementation plans for future projects with the Director of Exhibitions and artists, including renderings, technical requirements, written descriptions, and estimates.
Work with the Director of Exhibitions, artists, fabricators, and vendors to research, develop, and manage artwork production.
Coordinate logistics for receiving, staging, and installing artwork.
Create artist and vendor contracts using existing templates.
Serve as liaison to exhibiting artists and their representatives, including arranging travel and accommodations.
Create and monitor project schedules to ensure timely installation.
Coordinate space use and park access with High Line Maintenance and Operations teams.
Coordinate with Planning & Design and park Operations to support project execution, ensure projects appear on the institutional master calendar, and schedule internal resources.
Serve as the High Line point of contact for outside installation crews; manage on- and off-site logistics and train vendors on park-specific protocols.
Liaise with NYC Parks and other city agencies to obtain necessary approvals.
Create communication processes and documents so affected stakeholders understand project impacts on the park.
Perform regular artwork maintenance, including cleaning and technical troubleshooting.
Organize and maintain safe, clean on- and off-site storage and production spaces, and develop an inventory of tools and equipment.
Coordinate event and performance setup and breakdown, including sourcing and setting up A/V equipment, permitting, and liaising with internal departments.
Update project budgets in consultation with the production director and chief curator.
Prepare and coordinate loan forms, contracts, permits, and insurance; compile and archive invoices, contracts, and payments.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
20 vacation days, 7 sick days, 10 paid holidays, and 2 floating holidays, prorated based on start date.
Contribution to a 403(b) retirement plan.
Commuter benefits.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Employee Assistance Program.
Paid primary and secondary caregiver leave.
Supplemental short-term disability insurance and paid life insurance.
Winter Fridays.
Growth and development career opportunities.
Discounted Citi Bike membership.
Discounts with vendors on the High Line and around the Meatpacking neighborhood.
Free entrance to the Whitney Museum.