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Artist Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Operations Director

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Summary The Operations Director will lead the Event Operations Team ensuring high level customer service, efficient operations, and care of staff, volunteers, and artists remains a priority across ...

Competition Director

Johnston, IA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

The Competition Director plays a key role in shaping performances, curriculum standards, and the ... Uphold the artistic vision and standards of the studio * Ensure consistency and quality across all ...

Sandwich Artist

Washington, IA · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

... Artist ® role. Additionally, your attention to detail will deliver a sandwich neatly and in a ... Ability to take direction from the actively engaged franchisee, Store Director, and Shift ...

... Artist ® role. Additionally, your attention to detail will deliver a sandwich neatly and in a ... Ability to take direction from actively engaged franchisee, Store Director, and Shift Supervisors.

Sandwich Artist

Kalona, IA · On-site

$11 - $13/hr

... Artist ® role. Additionally, your attention to detail will deliver a sandwich neatly and in a ... Ability to take direction from actively engaged franchisee, Store Director, and Shift Supervisors.

### **EP Cardiology Medical Director opening in Des Moines, IA**Located in Des Moines, IA - Ames 35m ... The region is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, thriving arts and entertainment districts ...

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Artist Director information

See Iowa salary details

$29.4K

$127.3K

$150.1K

How much do artist director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for artist director in Iowa is $127,259.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,600.00 and $149,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an artist director?

An Artist Director, often called an Art Director, is responsible for the visual style and creative direction of projects in industries such as advertising, film, theater, publishing, or video games. They lead teams of designers, artists, and other creatives, ensuring that the visual elements align with the overall vision and objectives of the project. Artist Directors collaborate closely with clients and other stakeholders to develop visual concepts and guide the production process from conception to completion. Their role requires strong artistic skills, leadership abilities, and a keen understanding of current trends in design and media.

How does an artist director typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

An Artist Director works closely with multiple departments, such as design, production, marketing, and sometimes client teams, to ensure the creative vision is consistently executed across all aspects of a project. Regular meetings and reviews are common, where the Artist Director provides feedback, aligns goals, and addresses challenges to maintain visual and thematic coherence. This role often requires balancing creative ideas with practical constraints and facilitating clear communication between creative staff and project managers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an artist director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Art Director, you need a strong background in visual design, creative conceptualization, and leadership, usually supported by a degree in graphic design, fine arts, or a related field. Expertise with industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite, project management software, and familiarity with branding guidelines are typically required. Exceptional communication, collaboration, and decision-making skills distinguish successful candidates in this role. These abilities are crucial for leading creative teams, delivering cohesive visual strategies, and ensuring projects meet both artistic and business objectives.

What is the difference between Artist Director vs Art Director?

AspectArtist DirectorArt Director
Required CredentialsTypically a background in fine arts, visual arts, or related fields; often with a portfolio showcasing artistic workDegree in graphic design, visual communication, or related fields; strong portfolio in design projects
Work EnvironmentCreative studios, galleries, or theater productions; focuses on conceptual and visual storytellingAdvertising agencies, publishing, film, or media companies; focuses on visual style and branding
Industry UsageUsed in arts organizations, theater, and creative projects emphasizing artistic visionCommon in advertising, media, and entertainment industries for visual branding and campaign design

The main difference is that an Artist Director typically leads artistic vision and conceptual development in creative projects, often with a focus on fine arts or theater, while an Art Director manages visual styles and design execution within commercial or media projects. Both roles require strong artistic skills but serve different industry needs.

Do artist directors get paid well?

Artist directors typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, industry, and location. In general, they can expect to earn a median annual wage that reflects their creative skills and leadership responsibilities, with higher pay often associated with larger organizations or more prominent projects.

How do I become an artist director?

To become an artist director, individuals typically need a combination of formal education in fine arts, theater, or related fields, along with extensive experience in artistic roles such as artist, designer, or producer. Developing strong leadership, project management skills, and a portfolio of successful projects are essential, and some positions may require knowledge of industry-specific tools or software. Gaining experience through internships or assistant roles can also help advance to an artist director position.

What are the most commonly searched types of Artist jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Artist jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Artist Director job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,259 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Operations Director

Iowatravelindustry

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Summary

The Operations Director will lead the Event Operations Team ensuring high level customer service, efficient operations, and care of staff, volunteers, and artists remains a priority across the organization. This position provides crucial support to the Front of House team and the organization-at-large through project management, communications, artist services, patron services, box office operations, and improving efficiencies and innovation across the organization. This position will work independently, as part of an intimate team, and with staff from other departments and focus areas. The core responsibilities of this position are listed below.

Anticipated Work Schedule

The Operations Director will work as a full-time, exempt employee. Work hours will be scheduled based on the organization’s event schedule, with administrative work occurring during typical business hours and event-specific work occurring in coordination with the event schedule.

Core Job Responsibilities
  • Senior Leadership
    • Serve as member of the senior leadership team, advising on organization-wide decisions and working across departments to allow for seamless operations and cohesive execution of the organization’s mission-driven strategic plan including event leadership assignments
    • Assist and lead Englert Education and Outreach opportunities
    • Serve as an advocate for the organization in the community representing the Englert at various committees and meetings as assigned
  • Event Operations Management
    • Supervise, advise, and lead the Box Office Manager, Patron Services Manager, and Artist Services Manager including the creation of event based policies, monitoring of event income streams, maintaining hiring practices, and leading employee engagement opportunities
    • Lead special event project management, lead event post-mortems, develop event training protocols, and identify and report friction points or possible efficiency gains with a problem-solving mentality
  • Event Financial and Facilities Management
    • Manage, report on, and document event operation budgets
    • Ensure external event settlement needs are met in coordination with Executive Artistic Director
    • Prepare internal event settlement reports in coordination with Executive Managing Director
    • Oversee the Englert's historic facilities, working directly with the Executive Managing Director on both long-term needs and standard maintenance
Desired Qualities
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong team leadership experience
  • Excellent customer service experience
  • Attention to detail, and organizational skills
  • Proficient in database management, Google Workspace, and other required computer skills
  • Problem-solving mentality
  • Ability to multitask with ease and regularity
  • Professional, resourceful, and collaborative
  • Ability to work independently and as a team player, to take initiative and balance multiple projects
  • Positive, assertive, personable attitude and a general willingness to work with the public
  • Experience in analyzing data, reporting on it, and using it to create efficiencies and find innovation
  • An interest in live music and performing arts
SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Direct supervision is received from the Executive Managing Director

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Artist Services Manager, Box Office Manager, Patron Services Manager, and the departments they oversee

HOURS AND WAGES

This is a full-time, exempt salaried position starting at $60,000

Eligible Benefits
  • IRA Match up to 3% of gross wages
  • 50% Employer Medical (Self) Coverage
  • 100% Dental Coverage
  • PTO, Flex Time, and Paid Holidays
About The Englert

The Englert Theatre is a performing arts organization based in Iowa City, Iowa. Housed in a historic theater (est. 1912) in the heart of downtown, The Englert serves as a key community activator. Our values and programmatic practices center on a wide range of voices and perspectives, honor historic preservation and demand ongoing self-analysis and evolution toward a more inclusive community.

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