1

Cultural Programming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Director of Programming

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$130K - $150K/yr

RTS is an enthusiast culture company that builds at the intersection of gaming, creators, and ... You will oversee the programming calendar, production priorities, budgets, and the teams ...

Showing results 21-40

Cultural Programming information

See California salary details

$13

$51

$70

How much do cultural programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for cultural programming in California is $51.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.41 and $61.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is cultural programming?

Cultural programming refers to the planning, creation, and execution of events, activities, and initiatives that promote cultural awareness, diversity, and engagement within a community or organization. This can include festivals, workshops, performances, exhibitions, lectures, and other experiences that showcase various cultural traditions, art forms, and perspectives. The goal of cultural programming is often to foster inclusivity, celebrate different backgrounds, and encourage learning and appreciation of diverse cultures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cultural programming?

To excel in Cultural Programming, you need a strong background in arts management, event planning, and cross-cultural knowledge, often supported by a degree in cultural studies or a related field. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and digital marketing platforms is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and excellent interpersonal skills help professionals design engaging programs and foster community partnerships. These competencies ensure the successful development and delivery of impactful cultural events that resonate with diverse audiences.

What are some common challenges faced in a cultural programming role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Cultural Programming often face challenges such as balancing diverse stakeholder interests, securing funding for events, and ensuring inclusivity in program content. Navigating these complexities requires strong communication skills, creative problem-solving, and the ability to collaborate with community partners, artists, and organizational leadership. Proactively gathering feedback and staying current with cultural trends can help create programs that resonate with wide audiences while meeting organizational goals.

What is the difference between Cultural Programming vs Cultural Event Coordinator?

AspectCultural ProgrammingCultural Event Coordinator
CredentialsRelevant degrees in arts, culture, or community developmentEvent management certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, museums, cultural institutionsEvent venues, cultural festivals, nonprofit organizations
Employer & IndustryArts organizations, cultural institutions, nonprofitsEvent planning companies, cultural festivals, nonprofits

While both roles focus on cultural activities, Cultural Programming involves designing and developing cultural content and programs, whereas a Cultural Event Coordinator manages the logistics and execution of specific cultural events. Cultural Programming is more strategic and content-focused, while the Event Coordinator handles the operational aspects of events.

What are popular job titles related to Cultural Programming jobs in California?

For Cultural Programming jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cultural Programming jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cultural Programming jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cultural Programming jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cultural Programming job openings:

Infographic showing various Cultural Programming job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,312 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Cultural Affairs Administrator

City of Santa Monica

Santa Monica, CA

$118K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Plans, develops, and oversees the implementation of a range of innovative and community responsive cultural programs. Supervises the work of assigned staff and consultants. Representative Duties Plans, organizes, and oversees various programs in the Cultural Affairs Division, such as grant programs; public art; cultural facilities and programming; partnerships, and communications.

Develops and implements comprehensive cultural funding programs, including grants to non-profit agencies and individual artists as well as associated technical assistance initiatives. Develops community input activities to ensure that the City's cultural funding programs are responsive to community needs and priorities. Develops funding rationales and guidelines.

Conducts long-range planning studies on emerging cultural trends and needs and corresponding priorities for the City's cultural programs. Researches best practices and promotes innovation in Division programs. Provides leadership in the areas of cultural facilities and programming, partnerships, customer service programs, public relations, and marketing of the City's cultural resources and activities.

Makes presentations to cultural organizations, community groups, and residents to encourage participation in the arts, culture, and understanding of the City of Santa Monica's creative economy. Selects, trains, evaluates, schedules, and supervises staff and consultants. Implements staff development and training activities to ensure a collaborative teamwork environment.

Oversees the monitoring of program expenditures, revenues, and budget status. Maintains and prepares a variety of reports including financial reports and records and proposes recommendations for review by the City Council, boards, commissions, and community groups. Responds to inquiries and oversees the resolution of citizen complaints.

Serves as a liaison to the Arts Commission, the Santa Monica Arts Foundation and/or other committees, as assigned. Performs other related duties, as assigned. Requirements KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of: Principles and practices of cultural planning Principles and practices of community outreach and marketing Principles and practices, of cultural facility and program development Principles and practices of grant administration Visual, performing, literary and design arts Cultural funding programs for non-profit agencies and individuals, including grants and technical assistance Principles and practices of budget development and administration Principles and practices of non-profit management Principles and practices of contract development and negotiations Principles of staff training and supervision Effective customer service techniques Ability to: Plan, organize, and coordinate the work of a section of a division Develop and work with staff members and consultants using a team-oriented approach Conduct research, analyze information, and make recommendations Develop and implement innovative and community-responsive policies and procedures Select, supervise, train, evaluate, and motivate staff Prepare and present clear and concise oral and written reports and recommendations Provide effective customer service Establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with City employees, City Boards and Commissions, and the general public Skill in: Meeting facilitation Using a personal computer and applicable software applications REQUIREMENTS Minimum Qualifications: Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree.

A bachelor's degree with a major in the arts, public administration or a closely related field is desirable. Four years of recent, paid, experience in an arts and/or cultural organization overseeing one or more program areas. Experience in grants management, cultural program management, cultural facility management or cultural policy development is desirable.

At least two years of the recent, paid work experience must have included leading and coordinating the work of others, including coordinating the work of arts and/or cultural consultants. Licenses and Certificates: Possession of a valid Class C driver license or the ability to utilize an alternate method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions. Supplemental Information The City of Santa Monica is a progressive, inclusive and culturally-rich community.

As leaders in public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a workforce where people of diverse races, religions, cultures and lifestyles thrive. Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where our employees are empowered to perform at their highest level and where their differences make a positive impact. The City is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law.

We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces the diversity of our employees. Join us. Special assistance with the application and examination process is available, upon request, for persons with disabilities.

Call (310) 458-8246, TDD (310) 458-8696 (Hearing Impaired Only). Please note the request for reasonable accommodations must be made to Human Resources at least three work days prior to the examination. HOW TO APPLY: All applicants must submit an online City application and required supplemental questions to be considered for this position.

Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete. Resumes, CVs and cover letters are not reviewed as part of the application screening process and should not be submitted. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your college level transcripts or diploma with your application.

Applicants who indicate receipt of college level coursework or degree from a foreign institution must provide United States credential equivalency verification along with a copy of your college diploma/transcripts. All materials must be received in the Human Resources Department no later than close of business on the application closing date. Failure to do so will result in your application being disqualified.

You must upload and attach a scanned copy of your transcripts or diploma to your on-line application. SELECTION PROCESS: All applicants will be reviewed and only those candidates determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience, training and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Testing may consist of the following: Training & Experience Evaluation - Qualifying Oral Interview - 90% Seniority - 10%.