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Artistic Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

El Centro Milagro

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 ...

El Centro Milagro

Artistic Director

Portland, OR

$55K/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 ...

Philadelphia Ballet

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Works with the Artistic Director to make sure all casting is accurate, and each ballet receives the required number of rehearsal hours. Assists the Artistic Director with communications related to ...

New

Music Theater Works

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Managing Director

Wilmette, IL · On-site

$65K/yr

Producing Artistic Director Status: Full-time, exempt Salary Range: Expected salary range: beginning at $65,000, with flexibility based on experience, plus benefits package. Position Summary The ...

Agupdate

$160 - $170/hr

Executive Director and Artistic Director Status:Full Time Salary Range:$160,000 - $170,00 yearly Position Summary Reporting to the Artistic Director and the Executive Director, the Vice President of ...

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Artistic Director information

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$44.5K

$121.8K

$146.5K

How much do artistic director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for artistic director in the United States is $121,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,000.00 and $127,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an artistic director?

An Artistic Director is a senior leader responsible for guiding the creative vision and direction of an arts organization, such as a theater, dance company, or gallery. They select productions, oversee artistic programming, and often collaborate with artists, directors, and designers to bring projects to life. In addition to shaping the artistic strategy, Artistic Directors may be involved in casting, budgeting, and community outreach. Their work ensures that the organization's artistic goals align with its mission and audience expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an artistic director?

To thrive as an Artistic Director, you need a strong background in the arts, creative vision, leadership experience, and often a relevant degree in fine arts or a related field. Familiarity with production management software, budgeting tools, and industry-standard editing or design programs is typically required. Exceptional communication, collaboration, and organizational skills set outstanding Artistic Directors apart. These abilities are crucial for shaping artistic direction, managing teams, and ensuring successful and innovative productions.

How does an artistic director collaborate with other departments within an organization?

Artistic Directors work closely with a variety of departments, including production, marketing, development, and education teams. They regularly communicate with these groups to ensure that the artistic vision aligns with logistical, promotional, and financial considerations. This collaboration often involves participating in meetings, giving creative input on marketing materials, and coordinating schedules and resources for performances or exhibitions. Successful Artistic Directors foster strong, open relationships across departments to create cohesive and impactful programming.

What is the difference between Artistic Director vs Creative Director?

AspectArtistic DirectorCreative Director
CredentialsTypically requires a background in arts, theater, or related fields; often with experience in production or performanceRequires a background in design, branding, or advertising; often with experience in visual or digital media
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in arts organizations, theaters, or cultural institutionsPrimarily in advertising agencies, media companies, or branding firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in arts, theater, dance, and cultural sectorsUsed in marketing, advertising, and media industries

The main difference is that Artistic Directors focus on the artistic vision and programming of arts organizations, while Creative Directors oversee the overall creative strategy and branding in marketing and media. Both roles require creative expertise but serve different industry needs.

Do artistic directors get paid well?

Artistic directors typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on the organization, location, and level of experience. In larger institutions or major markets, they tend to earn higher wages, often supplemented by benefits and performance bonuses. Overall, the role is considered well-compensated within the arts and entertainment industry.

What does an artistic director do?

An artistic director is responsible for overseeing the creative vision and artistic standards of a theater, dance company, or other performance organization. They select productions, collaborate with designers and performers, and often guide the overall aesthetic and programming decisions. Strong leadership, communication skills, and knowledge of the arts are essential for this role.

What qualifications do you need to be an artistic director?

To become an artistic director, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in fine arts, theater, or a related field, along with extensive experience in the arts or entertainment industry. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills are essential, and many roles require a background in directing, producing, or curating artistic projects.
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Artistic Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Artistic Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,757 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Artistic Director

El Centro Milagro

Portland, OR

$128K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 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


Apply