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Artistic Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Northern California Youth Chorus

Artistic Director

Folsom, CA · On-site

$129K - $135K/yr

The Artistic Director guides the organization's creative vision, directs one or more choirs, and oversees both programmatic and administrative staff. Blending artistic excellence with strategic ...

Music Theater Works

Be Seen First

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 ...

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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 Jul 26, 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 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 have a role in fundraising and strategic planning. Strong leadership, artistic judgment, and knowledge of the industry are essential for this role.

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

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.

Is there a high demand for art directors?

Art directors are in demand across industries such as advertising, film, and publishing, with employment growth projected to be about 3% from 2021 to 2031. Success in this role often requires strong creative skills, proficiency with design software, and a solid portfolio. The demand can vary by industry and geographic location but generally remains steady due to ongoing needs for visual communication and branding.

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.

Do art directors get paid well?

Art directors typically earn a competitive salary that varies by industry, experience, and location. According to industry data, the median annual wage for art directors is above the national average, with higher earnings possible in advertising, film, and digital media sectors. Strong skills in design, leadership, and project management can also influence compensation levels.

What jobs do art directors do?

Art directors are responsible for overseeing the visual style and creative direction of projects such as advertising campaigns, films, magazines, or video games. They collaborate with designers, artists, and clients to develop concepts, select visual elements, and ensure the final product aligns with the intended aesthetic. Strong leadership, communication skills, and proficiency with design tools like Adobe Creative Suite are essential for this role.

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.

More about Artistic Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Artistic Director jobs? Cities with the most Artistic Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Artistic jobs? The most popular types of Artistic jobs are:
What states have the most Artistic Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Artistic Director jobs include:
Artistic Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Artistic Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 64% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,757 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Artistic Director

El Centro Milagro

Portland, OR

$55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 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