Art Program Director Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Introduction / Opening Help shape how Hillsboro connects with art, artists, and community. We're looking for an organized, collaborative Public Art Programmer to support public art projects, community engagement, collection care, and new opportunities that bring creativity into public spaces. About the Cultural Arts Team The Cultural Arts team connects the community with arts, culture, and creative experiences throughout Hillsboro.

This position supports public art programming and projects at Walters Cultural Arts Center and throughout the community. Position Overview & Key Responsibilities As a Public Art Program Instructor III, you'll coordinate projects and programs that support Hillsboro's public art collection and engage community members in meaningful ways. Examples of Essential Work What You'll Be Doing: Support mural and public art projects from research and outreach through implementation.

Plan and coordinate community engagement, workshops, surveys, and educational opportunities. Conduct research and analyze community feedback and data to help shape future projects. Coordinate collection maintenance, condition checks, documentation, and scheduling.

Support artist communications, applications, project coordination, and selection processes. Work collaboratively with City staff, artists, community members, committees, and partners. Provide administrative and customer service support and respond to community questions.

Serve as a lead worker by providing direction, information, and support to assigned staff or volunteers. Current & Upcoming Projects Supporting new public art projects and community engagement at Shute Park and Walters Cultural Arts Center and throughout the City of Hillsboro's park system. Supporting mural projects and related artist and community coordination.

Planning ongoing maintenance and care of Hillsboro's public art collection. Using community feedback and data analysis to inform future programming and projects. What You'll Need to Succeed We're looking for someone who is organized, curious, community-minded, and comfortable balancing independent work with collaboration.

Strong communication, organization, and project coordination skills. Ability to build positive relationships with artists, community members, City staff, and partners. Ability to research information, analyze data, and communicate findings clearly.

Strong attention to detail and follow-through with records and project information. Ability to provide responsive, respectful customer service. Sound judgment and initiative when coordinating projects and addressing challenges.

Commitment to inclusive community engagement and working respectfully with diverse perspectives. Job Classification The Public Art Program Instructor III falls under the general Instructor III job classification. For full job classification details click here: Instructor III Acceptable Experience and Training Acceptable Experience & Training High School Diploma, GED, AA, BA or BFA in Fine Arts, Art Administration, Arts Education, Museum and Gallery Practices, Art History, or related field; and 1 year experience in public art, community-based arts or cultural programming, collection management, recreation programming, or a closely related field; OR Any combination of experience and training which provides the equivalent scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Licenses & Certifications Valid driver's license and safe driving record. Additional Information Anticipated Recruitment Timeline Application Open: August 17, 2026 Application Close: September 6, 2026 Application Review Complete: Week of September 21, 2026 First-Round Interviews: Early to mid-October 2026 Final Candidate Selection: Late October 2026 Timeline subject to change based on City needs. Work Environment & Schedule Hours generally take place during Walters Cultural Arts Center operating hours, Tuesday-Thursday from 10am - 9pm, Friday from 10am - 5pm, and Saturday from 9am-1pm, with some hours during evening meetings, artist workshops, and community events.

Work takes place at Walters Cultural Arts Center, Shute Park, and other community locations. Schedule and work location may vary based on program, project, meeting, and community engagement needs. Why Join Us Working for the City of Hillsboro means being part of a team that values community, inclusion, and meaningful public service.

You'll have the opportunity to make a direct impact by helping people connect with nature and each other. We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the community we serve and creating an environment where all employees feel welcomed and supported. Application Guidelines Apply Early: Posting closes Sunday, September 6, 2026.

Late submissions will not be accepted. Complete Your Application: Please fill out all sections thoroughly and accurately, as resumes and cover letters will not be reviewed. Your application responses are the primary way we assess your qualifications.

Highlight Your Unique Skills: Take time to clearly describe your relevant experience and accomplishments. Thoughtful, detailed responses help us better understand your skills and how they align with the position. Be Authentic: Please ensure your responses reflect your own experience and are written in your own words.

We value clear, specific examples that demonstrate your skills and contributions. Why Work For the City of Hillsboro. At the City of Hillsboro, we value innovation, inclusion, and collaboration.

Our culture encourages professional growth and supports employees who are passionate about making a difference in their community. You'll find meaningful work, great people, and opportunities to grow your career in public service. We're committed to supporting employees with a comprehensive package of benefits and resources designed to promote health, well-being, and growth.

When you join our team, you'll enjoy: Competitive pay with City contributions to PERS retirement Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage Paid time off for vacation, personal, sick leave, and holidays Deferred compensation match and HRA VEBA contributions City-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance Bilingual pay incentives and wellness reimbursements Free TriMet annual Hop pass and SHARC and Hidden Creek Community Center access Paid volunteer time through Hillsboro Helps Professional development and training opportunities A supportive workplace that values work/life balance and employee wellness Bilingual Incentive Pay Available Employees who can demonstrate the ability to speak Spanish, ASL, or any other language spoken by over 10% of the City residents as documented by the most recent U.S. Census, will receive a monthly 3% premium pay. The incentive is only paid on hours in paid status

Proficiency will be determined by a City-administered test. Commitment to Equity At the City of Hillsboro, we believe that hiring a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve is essential to delivering exceptional City services and programs. The City of Hillsboro is committed to creating and supporting an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees to thrive.

We value, respect, and empower employees as unique individuals with authentic voices and diverse ideas.