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Calarts Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Calarts information

See California salary details

$8

$25

$60

How much do calarts jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for calarts in California is $25.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.83 and $30.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Calarts vs Animation Designer?

AspectCalartsAnimation Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a BFA or MFA in Animation or related fieldsOften requires a degree in Animation, Graphic Design, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentCreative studios, educational institutions, freelance projectsAnimation studios, media companies, advertising agencies
Industry UsageUsed as a school name and brand for animation educationJob title for professionals creating animated content

Calarts refers to the California Institute of the Arts, known for its animation programs, while Animation Designer is a job title for professionals creating animated content. Calarts graduates often become Animation Designers, but the two are distinct: one is an educational institution, the other a role within the animation industry.

What are CalArts graduates known for?

CalArts graduates are renowned for their creativity, innovation, and influence in various artistic fields, including animation, film, theater, visual arts, music, and dance. Alumni have played pivotal roles in shaping the entertainment industry, particularly at major studios such as Disney, Pixar, and DreamWorks. Many are recognized for their experimental approaches and have contributed to both mainstream and avant-garde projects. The school's interdisciplinary environment encourages collaboration, resulting in versatile artists equipped for a range of creative careers.

What are some common challenges faced by faculty members at CalArts and how can new hires prepare for them?

Faculty members at CalArts often navigate a highly interdisciplinary and experimental environment, where balancing personal artistic practice with teaching responsibilities can be challenging. New hires should be prepared to collaborate across diverse artistic disciplines and adapt their teaching methods to students with varied creative backgrounds. Time management and flexibility are essential, as faculty frequently participate in committee work and student mentorship in addition to their instructional duties. Embracing the school's culture of innovation and open communication will help new faculty thrive and make meaningful contributions to the community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CalArts faculty member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CalArts faculty member, you typically need advanced expertise in your artistic discipline, a relevant graduate degree (such as an MFA or PhD), and a strong record of professional or creative work. Familiarity with digital art tools, contemporary creative technologies, and learning management systems is often required. Outstanding mentorship skills, open-mindedness, and the ability to foster creative collaboration are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure innovative, student-centered instruction and help maintain CalArts' reputation for excellence in the arts.
What are the most commonly searched types of Calarts jobs in California? The most popular types of Calarts jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Calarts jobs in California? For Calarts jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Calarts job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $53,653 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Assistant Director, Student Life

CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF THE ARTS

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY

The Assistant Director of Student Life provides strategic leadership for student engagement, campus programming, and student governance initiatives at CalArts. Reporting to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, this position oversees the operations of the Office of Student Life and collaborates with campus partners to develop programs that support leadership development, civic engagement, student belonging, and co-curricular learning.

The Assistant Director provides direct oversight of student government, registered student organizations, and leadership development initiatives, while guiding campus-wide programming efforts such as Orientation and Institute signature events. The role supervises the Student Life Coordinator and student staff and ensures that student engagement programs align with the Institute’s commitment to creativity, inclusion, and student success.

This position serves as a key resource and advisor to student leaders and works closely with offices across the Institute to ensure that student engagement initiatives are inclusive, educationally enriching, and responsive to the evolving needs of CalArts students.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Student Leadership and Governance

  • Provide leadership and advising support to the CalArts Student Union and student government structures

  • Oversee policies, processes, and procedures related to student governance, elections, and student organization activity

  • Support student leaders in developing skills in collaboration, advocacy, communication, and civic responsibility

Student Organizations and Engagement

  • Provide strategic oversight for the Institute’s registered student organizations and clubs

  • Guide processes related to organization registration, recognition, accountability, and funding

  • Support the development of student-led programming and initiatives that contribute to campus life

Campus Programming and Orientation

  • Lead planning and implementation of major campus engagement initiatives including Fall and Spring Orientation

  • Support Institute-wide events and traditions that foster community and student engagement

  • Collaborate with campus partners to develop educational and cultural programming that supports the student experience

Belonging and Inclusive Engagement

  • Support initiatives that foster belonging, community building, and engagement among diverse student populations

  • Collaborate with the Chief Diversity Officer and campus partners to support identity-based programming and student support initiatives

Supervision and Administration

  • Supervise the Student Life Coordinator and student employees within the Office of Student Life

  • Oversee program budgets, event planning processes, and operational systems related to campus engagement

  • Conduct program assessment and evaluation to support continuous improvement of student life initiatives

SKILLS/ABILITIES:

  • Strong knowledge of student development theory and co-curricular learning

  • Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to build relationships and collaborate across departments

  • Demonstrated leadership and advising skills in student engagement settings

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, creative environment

  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

  • Commitment to equity, inclusion, and student success

EDUCATION:

Master’s degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Student Development, or a related field required

EXPERIENCE:

  • Demonstrated experience in student engagement, student organizations, leadership development, or campus programming in higher education

  • Experience supervising professional and/or student staff

  • Experience planning and implementing large-scale campus programs or events

  • Experience working with diverse student populations and fostering inclusive communities