Teaching Intern – Youth Summer Camps 2026
About The Position
The Studio Teaching Internship provides an educational opportunity for students exploring career paths in studio arts, design, art education, or education-related fields of study. This internship is for applicants looking to start their career in teaching or studio art-related work, and individuals who actively enjoy and find success working with children. The Des Moines Art Center will coordinate with colleges and universities about fulfilling internship credits. Teaching Interns will be introduced to methods of developing and teaching high-quality, hands on, age-appropriate studio art education classes for ages 5-14. Alongside experienced Des Moines Art Center staff, the Studio Teaching Intern will teach the fundamentals of art and a variety of techniques and mediums while fostering creativity and enthusiasm for art-making. The intern will be assigned studio classes to teach during the defined period of the internship and will participate in professional development activities and all aspects of the studio education department for broad exposure to the department's role in museum operations. A learning component will be incorporated into the course of this internship; interns will be given the opportunity to job-shadow and learn from other departments throughout the duration of this internship.
Requirements
- Knowledge of art history and art movements
- Approachability, patience and kindness are required
- Ability to work effectively with children and teens
- Must like interacting positively with children
- Working knowledge of a variety of art materials and techniques
- Exercises best judgement and discretion in matters related to classroom management.
- Participates in day-to-day operational decision making under the guidance of the Studio Arts Manager & Youth Program Lead.
- Must be able to kneel and crouch to assist small children
- Must be able to stand and walk for sustained periods of time
Responsibilities
- Develops class schedules, activities, and learning experiences; works closely with the Studio Education team to contribute to the development of learning objectives for various classes and themes.
- Teaches studio art camps independently as assigned.
- Creates unique and welcoming experiences for all students.
- Job-shadows and assists Art Center staff and instructors to gain an understanding of the department, museum operations, policies, and goals related to studio education.
- Prepares and cleans up studio space and supplies before and after class.
- Attend summer camp-related meetings and training sessions/events
- Act in ways that reflect favorably on the Art Center and maintain professional standards in quality of performance.
- Demonstrate concern for the Art Center's collection, programs, and facilities .
- Adhere to the Des Moines Art Center Code of Ethics, Employee Handbook, and all other organizational policies .
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
