Art Specialist

Boys and Girls Club of the Northwest Suburbs•Carpentersville, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Art Specialist is a dynamic youth development professional responsible for planning, delivering, and overseeing engaging, hands-on visual arts experiences for middle and high school-aged members. This role harnesses the power of creative expression, artistic exploration, and project-based learning to help members build confidence, creativity, communication skills, and career readiness. The Art Specialist curates a welcoming studio environment where members explore diverse artistic mediums while developing critical thinking, collaboration, and authentic self-expression. As a mentor and positive role model, this position ensures every member feels seen, valued, and inspired to reach their potential.

Requirements

Passion for Visual Arts & Youth: Brings infectious enthusiasm that motivates even reluctant members to pick up a brush or open a design file
Creative Facilitation: Designs experiences where youth discover their own voice rather than simply copying the instructor
Communication & Relationship Building: Connects authentically with teens; builds trust that extends beyond the studio
Coachable & Adaptable: Pivots fluidly based on member energy, supply availability, or unexpected moments of inspiration
Organization & Self-Management: Manages materials, lesson plans, attendance, and timelines with minimal oversight
Positive Behavior Recognition: Catches members doing things right and amplifies it to build a thriving studio culture
Mentorship Mindset: Sees every member as a future creative professional worthy of honest investment and feedback
Ability to Inspire Confidence: Nurtures self-expression and risk-taking in a safe, judgment-free environment

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's in Fine Arts, Art Education, Graphic Design, etc.
Youth development coursework

Responsibilities

Actively and collaboratively engage as a team member with Woodlands Impact Center staff to meet program goals.
Demonstrate leadership to meet conduct, safety, life, and employability skills development goals of members.
Plan, prepare, and administer daily art experiences and activities while providing supervision of high school members.
Develop written experience plans detailing activity purpose, materials required, step-by-step instructions, and life and employability skills addressed.
Deliver Club program objectives consistent with organizational goals and mission.
Record daily attendance of members participating in activities.
Ensure members are encouraged to participate in impactful experiences and receive instruction and constructive feedback to develop artistic and creative skills.
Recognize and celebrate members’ positive behavior, effort, and accomplishments.
Continuously evaluate experiences and adapt programming to meet member interests and developmental needs.
Serve as a positive role model with a sincere interest in member success.
Plan and facilitate a variety of visual arts experiences including drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, graphic design, photography, digital art, crafts, and cultural arts.
Teach artistic techniques while encouraging creativity and self-expression.
Maintain an organized and safe art studio environment.
Manage art supplies, materials, and equipment responsibly.
Organize displays, showcases, exhibitions, and member art galleries to build member pride and community visibility.
Incorporate career exploration opportunities related to creative industries and the arts.
Foster an environment that values diversity, inclusion, and cultural appreciation through artistic expression.
Collaborate with community artists, volunteers, and partners to enhance programming opportunities.
May oversee special programs and events, including art showcases, community art projects, field trips, and service-learning opportunities.
Participate in implementation of other Impact Center activities as needed.
May be required to drive the Impact Center van periodically.
Assist with maintaining a clean and organized Impact Center, including sweeping, mopping, wiping tables, washing dishes, decorating spaces, and organizing supplies.
Any other duties as assigned.