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Arts Programming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MD ยท On-site

Montgomery College, Rockville Campus, has an immediate need for a full-time Arts Center Manager in the Programming and Venues Department. The regular work schedule is Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 ...

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Arts & Education Director

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$56K - $65K/yr

... arts programming during the school year and summer, setting achievable short- and long-term goals Sustain and improve existing programs while developing new initiatives in response to community needs ...

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Arts Programming information

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$25K

$88.9K

$149K

How much do arts programming jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for arts programming in the United States is $88,946.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,500.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Arts Programming job?

An Arts Programming job involves planning, developing, and managing artistic and cultural events, exhibitions, or performances. Professionals in this role work with artists, organizations, and communities to curate and execute engaging programs. Responsibilities may include budgeting, marketing, grant writing, and partnership development. Arts programmers often work in museums, theaters, galleries, or nonprofit organizations to create meaningful cultural experiences for audiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Arts Programming position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Arts Programming, you need a strong background in arts administration, event planning, and a deep understanding of various artistic disciplines, typically supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with event management software, budget tracking tools, and sometimes grant management systems or certification in arts management is valuable. Creative problem-solving, organizational skills, and the ability to build relationships across diverse communities are essential soft skills. These competencies enable the development and execution of engaging arts programs that meet both organizational goals and community needs.

What are common challenges faced in an Arts Programming role, and how can I prepare for them?

Arts Programming professionals often navigate challenges such as balancing creative vision with budget constraints, coordinating schedules between artists and venues, and engaging diverse audiences. Adapting to last-minute changes, managing multiple events simultaneously, and effectively promoting programs are all part of the job. To prepare, it helps to build strong time-management and communication skills, stay flexible, and stay current with industry trends and community interests. Emphasizing collaboration and maintaining a solution-oriented approach will help you succeed in the fast-paced, dynamic environment of arts programming.

More about Arts Programming jobs
What cities are hiring for Arts Programming jobs? Cities with the most Arts Programming job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Arts Programming jobs? The most popular types of Arts Programming jobs are:
What states have the most Arts Programming jobs? States with the most job openings for Arts Programming jobs include:
Infographic showing various Arts Programming job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,946 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
Senior Director of Performing Arts

Senior Director of Performing Arts

Elgin Community College

Elgin, IL โ€ข On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About ECC:
Elgin Community College serves over 9,000 students at every stage of their educational journeys, including university transfer programs, career and technical education, continuing education classes, and adult basic education. As a community, we pride ourselves on nurturing a welcoming campus where every person-students, staff members, faculty members, and campus visitors-feels valued. The work of each ECC employee is central to the college's mission, and as an employer, the college fosters a positive environment through professional challenges, excellent benefits, and opportunities for recognition and camaraderie.
Work Schedule:
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Rate of Pay:
This is a Full-Time Administrative position at grade 17, with an annual salary range of $84,923 to $113,000. The salary offer will be based on education and experience, in alignment with the College's compensation philosophy and the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), if applicable.
Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA, DCA, Commuter)
  • Retirement Plans (Pension, 457b, 403b)
  • Time Off with Pay
  • Professional Development/Expense
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Sick Banks

FLSA Status:
Exempt
Grant Funded:
No
Job Summary:
The College seeks an exceptional leader to guide a dynamic, multivenue academic and community performing arts center. This role oversees a $1.7M instructional and auxiliary portfolio, leading artistic programming, contract negotiations, marketing strategy, and financial stewardship to ensure mission-aligned, fiscally sustainable operations. The Senior Director also supervises faculty and staff, supports academic music programs including private lessons and ensembles, and fosters strong partnerships with in-residence ensembles, community arts organizations, and campus collaborators. A successful candidate brings substantial experience in performing arts administration, proven financial and operational acumen, and demonstrated success in season planning, audience development, and donor/grant engagement. Equally essential are strong skills with collaboration, communication, cultural competency, and the ability to balance instructional needs with revenue-generating performance operations. This is a rare opportunity for a strategic, equity-minded arts leader to shape vibrant programming that enriches both the college and the wider region.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Graduate degree in arts, nonprofit administration, business, or a related field; or a bachelor's degree with substantial experience leading multi-venue performing arts operations or comparable nonprofit organizations.
  • Minimum of seven (7) years of senior leadership experience in a nonprofit organization, including budget and profit/loss responsibility, contract authority, and supervision of cross-functional teams.
  • Demonstrated success achieving measurable outcomes related to strategic planning, marketing, and organizational goals.
  • Proven experience managing mixed income streams, including earned revenue, grants, and contributed income.
  • Experience cultivating internal and external partnerships to advance institutional mission and program effectiveness.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of performing arts venue management, including marketing, box office operations, online ticket sales, CRM systems, technical production, and front-of-house management.
  • Working knowledge of performing arts genres (music and theatre) and the nonprofit and commercial performing arts industries at the local, national, and international levels.
  • Familiarity with collective bargaining agreements and applicable labor requirements.
  • Familiarity with Illinois Community College Board or equivalent requirements related to curriculum and enrollment.
  • Strategic thinking and vision development, with the ability to implement complex plans to completion.
  • Strong financial management and analytical skills, including data-informed decision-making.
  • Effective project management skills in a dynamic, high-volume public programming environment.
  • Excellent interpersonal, diplomatic, and communication skills to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
  • Ability to articulate and advance a clear vision for integrating performing arts programming within the college and the broader community.
  • Demonstrated commitment to equity-minded planning, inclusive programming, and culturally responsive practices.
  • Ability to collaborate, build effective teams, and manage conflict in complex organizational settings.

Desired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Experience working in higher education.
  • Direct professional experience in the performing arts (e.g., director, producer, performer).
  • Comprehensive experience managing all aspects of performing arts venues.
  • Fundraising experience, including donor cultivation and sponsorships.
  • Experience managing curriculum, faculty, and enrollment processes related to performing arts instruction.

Essential Duties:
  • Provide fiscal leadership for instructional and auxiliary units, including strategic planning, budgeting, grant writing, and oversight of revenue and expenses totaling nearly $2 million.
  • Ensure auxiliary operations remain financially sustainable and maintain reserve funds.
  • Develop and sustain a diversified operational model incorporating earned income, rentals, presenting/producing activities, and contributed income.
  • Develop diverse, financially successful performance seasons aligned with the Arts Center's mission.
  • Negotiate and execute artist contracts in compliance with College policies.
  • Oversee communication, marketing, and media strategies for all programming.
  • Anticipate, assess, and mitigate organizational, contractual, and public-facing risks associated with live performance events.
  • Hire, supervise, and evaluate Arts Center staff, adjunct faculty, and ensemble instructors.
  • Administer collective bargaining agreements and address student, faculty, and staff concerns.
  • Coordinate private music lessons, ensemble programs, curriculum requirements, course scheduling, and student registration.
  • Serve as liaison with in-residence ensemble partners to ensure alignment with College policies and mutual program goals.
  • Coordinate public outreach initiatives with visiting artists, faculty, student ensembles, and community organizations.
  • Partner with the College Foundation on fundraising initiatives, donor cultivation, sponsorships, and special events.
  • Identify and pursue grant opportunities supporting Arts Center and instructional priorities.
  • Collaborate with faculty and staff to integrate performing arts programming into curriculum and interdisciplinary initiatives as liaison with in-residence ensemble partners to ensure alignment with College policies and mutual program goals.
  • Other Duties: Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Physical Demands:
Light (up to 25 lbs occasionally or 10lbs frequently)
Visual Acuity:
Close visual acuity (e.g. computer, assembly)
Work Environment:
Moderate noise
Environmental Conditions:
Typical office or administrative
Current SSECCA Union Member Information:
The initial posting date for this position is 04/22/2026. Elgin Community College Support Staff Association (SSECCA) members that apply by 04/29/26 and meet the posted minimum qualifications will receive full consideration.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Elgin Community College does not discriminate, or tolerate discrimination, against any member of its community on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex/gender/gender identity, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law in matters of admissions, employment, or in any aspect of the educational programs or activities it offers.
In addition, Elgin Community College provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to ensure equal access and equal opportunities with regard to employment practices, educational opportunities, and programs and services. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the College's EEO/AA Officer. Determinations on request for a reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.