Temporary Program Assistant

University of Chicago•Chicago, IL

17h•$20 - $30

About The Position

As the fine arts museum of the University of Chicago, the Smart Museum of Art is a site for rigorous inquiry and exchange that encourages the examination of complex issues through the lens of art objects and artistic practice. Through strong scholarly and community collaborations and a welcoming approach to its exhibitions, collections, publications, research and teaching, and public programs, the Smart Museum plays a dynamic role in expanding artistic canons, rethinking received histories, introducing new perspectives, and engaging diverse communities - locally, nationally, and internationally. The Temporary Program Assistant plays a key role in the creation of programs at the intersection of campus and community. These may include talks and conversations, symposia, performances, screenings, workshops, fieldtrips, tours, pop-ups, publications, and more. Reporting to the Director of the Feitler Center for Academic Inquiry and Head of Education, the Temporary Program Assistant will be responsible for supporting fiscally-sound departmental operations with sustainable initiatives, effective workflows, and a vibrant workplace culture. This is a temporary position, working 20-30 hours per week, for a period of approximately 12 weeks.

Requirements

Deep knowledge of event/program coordination and design, including in-person, hybrid, and remote experiences.
Demonstratable background in developing effective, collaborative partnerships and creating programs that empower communities.
Versed in introducing and integrating the arts across disciplinary interests, extra-curricular activities, and community-driven goals and projects.
Proven ability to work effectively independently, in a team environment, and collaborating across organizational structures; dedicated to fostering a workplace of belonging.
Outstanding written/oral communication, organization, time management, and interpersonal skills.
Strong project management, creative problem solving, and conflict resolution skills.
College or university degree required.
1 to 3 years of relevant work experience.
Background in higher education and/or museum setting, non-profit arts sector, public relations, arts administration, or similar professional field.
Background working with university students and/or university faculty and instructors.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with best practices and new strategies in arts-oriented program design a plus.

Responsibilities

Works closely with the Director of the Feitler Center and Head of Education in the successful development and delivery of innovative, inclusive, culturally-responsive, and ambitious programs, which may range between in-person, hybrid, and remote modalities.
Collaborates with other Smart colleagues in learning and engagement to integrate campus and community thinking, insights, and feedback into programs and departmental initiatives.
Participates in laying the groundwork for consistent, sustained, and diverse audience growth for learning and engagement at the Smart.
Manages program timelines, contracts, and participant communication utilizing a team-wide project management database.
Coordinates internal meetings, documents, and other means of transparent communications to support programs from inception to project closure.
Representing the Smart Museum, participates in peer committees, public presentations, special events, and other opportunities for community building at the University and in Chicago.
Assists in maintaining instruments for assessments and reports on programming initiatives and the student internship program.
Provides supports in preparing and tracking relevant budgets, paperwork, and project documentation and communications.
In collaboration with other Smart staff, writes and edits content for the promotion of campus and community programming, together with student engagement initiatives at the Smart.
Performs other duties as assigned.