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Artist Director Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Artistic Director

Portland, OR

$128K - $134K/yr

The Artistic Director is responsible for conceiving, developing, and implementing the artistic vision and focus of Milagro. The Artistic Director (AD) reports to the Executive Director, although also ...

Artistic Director

Portland, OR

$128K - $134K/yr

The Artistic Director is responsible for conceiving, developing, and implementing the artistic vision and focus of Milagro. The Artistic Director (AD) reports to the Executive Director, although also ...

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC ... Execute other operational tasks as directed. JOB QUALIFICATIONS Education * High school diploma is ...

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC ... Execute other operational tasks as directed. JOB QUALIFICATIONS Education * High school diploma is ...

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC ... Execute other operational tasks as directed. JOB QUALIFICATIONS Education * High school diploma is ...

Project Art Director

Eugene, OR · On-site +1

$106K - $127K/yr

This role bridges artistic direction, team management, and cross-disciplinary collaboration ... Director to organize and plan project kickoffs, aligning goals and deliverables. • Ensure ...

Project Art Director

Eugene, OR · On-site +1

$106K - $127K/yr

This role bridges artistic direction, team management, and cross-disciplinary collaboration ... Concept or direct concept artists to establish visual direction and stylistic cohesion.

Project Art Director

Eugene, OR · On-site +1

$121K - $127K/yr

This role bridges artistic direction, team management, and cross-disciplinary collaboration ... Concept or direct concept artists to establish visual direction and stylistic cohesion. Collaborate ...

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Artist Director information

See Oregon salary details

$31.8K

$137.3K

$161.9K

How much do artist director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for artist director in Oregon is $137,307.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,400.00 and $160,900.00 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 Oregon?

The most popular types of Artist jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Artist Director jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Artist Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Artist Director job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,307 per year, or $66 per hour.

Artistic Director

Portland, OR

$128K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

The Artistic Director is responsible for conceiving, developing, and implementing the artistic vision and focus of Milagro. The Artistic Director (AD) reports to the Executive Director, although also collaborates with other staff to realize the complete work of El Centro Milagro.  The AD is responsible for implementing the artistic vision of the organization through its theatrical programming and in concert with its Strategic Plan. The AD serves as the public spokesperson for the organization to the press, media, subscribers, donors, patrons and the public.  The AD actively forges and maintains artistic relationships with theater companies and individual artists across The Pacific Northwest, the nation, and abroad.  A successful candidate takes pride in the work of the theater: telling the story of Milagro's mission in compelling ways to all communities it serves.

Key Responsibilities

Artistic Leadership & Season Planning

Visionary Strategic Planning: Develop and execute a multi-year artistic vision that reflects Milagro's mission while advancing contemporary Latino storytelling.

Comprehensive Programming: Curate and oversee annual programming, including Miracle MainStage productions, new work development, original devised Day of the Dead productions, and world premieres.

Directing & Creative Presence: Serve by directing at least one production per season and actively participating in rehearsals, previews, and opening nights. Providing feedback to the director and designers throughout the process, as needed.

National Collaboration: Represent Milagro as an active member of the National New Play Network, pursuing Rolling World Premierates and other collaborative development opportunities. Building and maintaining long-term relationships with a wide range of practicing artists and arts organizations; establishing and maintaining relationships with community-based organizations whose work aligns with the mission and values of Milagro; and identifying and inviting theater artists of local, national and international prominence to create, develop and perform new work at Milagro.

Production & Personnel Management
  • Talent Curation & Mentorship: Recruit and supervise a diverse pool of guest directors, actors, and playwrights, fostering an environment where both emerging and established Latino artists can thrive.  

  • Production Oversight: Collaborate with production and technical staff to ensure high-quality, safe, and well-supported productions.

  • Standardized Excellence: Oversee and maintain written procedures and standards for technical and production staff.

Administrative, Financial & Governance Responsibilities
  • Fiscal Accountability: Collaborate with the Executive Director and Business Manager to develop and manage annual artistic and program budgets.

  • Governance & Strategy: Report to the Board of Directors, providing reports on artistic milestones, new work development, and programming outcomes.

  • Strategic Growth: Participate in high-level institutional planning to ensure the theater's facilities and resources evolve to meet its artistic vision.  

Community Engagement, Advocacy & Development
  • Mission Spokesperson: Serve as a spokesperson for Milagro's artistic mission through media engagement, public speaking, and community appearances.

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with artists, arts organizations, and community-based partners aligned with Milagro's values by participating in meetings and joint activities where appropriate.

  • Development Partnership: Partner with development staff to support fundraising efforts, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and fundraising events.


Skills & Qualifications

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

A deep commitment to Milagro's mission, vision, and Latino centered storytelling

A proven track record as an artistic leader with established relationships in the theatre field

Bachelor's degree (in the arts) or equivalent professional experience

Professional directing experience

Experience devising and collaborating on new original works

Spanish language proficiency

Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal skills

Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities

Initiative, adaptability, and collaborative leadership

Comfort working in fundraising environments and supporting donor engagement