Festival Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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This position is funded for 9 months; continuation past 9 months will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
This is a/an 75% full-time equivalency (FTE) job with months off. The number of months off will be determined by the position's FTE percentage. The timing of months off will be set to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to HR105 FTE positions should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This position is eligible for benefits associated with any full-time position. The salary grade and range listed in the posting is reflective of a 100% Full-time position. Full-time equivalency job offers may fall outside of the listed range due to the assigned percentage of effort.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Bellisario College of Communications seeks an Events Specialist who will play a key leadership role in advancing the mission of the Centre Film Festival - to celebrate the power of storytelling through film, connect communities across central Pennsylvania, and uplift diverse and emerging voices through education and engagement.
This individual will oversee the planning and execution of the annual festival while leading development efforts to ensure its sustainability and growth. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and detail-oriented organizer with strong communication skills and a passion for the arts. Some experience with fundraising is a plus.
Reduced FTE: This position will be filled at 75% FTE, with work performed from April to December, and January to March being months off.
This position is funded through December 2026 with possibility for renewal.
Responsibilities:
Festival Management:

• Lead all operational aspects of the Centre Film Festival, including scheduling, venue logistics, vendor coordination, permits, and filmmaker hospitality.
• Create and manage detailed production schedules using Excel or Google Sheets, ensuring on-time delivery of key milestones.
• Work with the programming team to support film screenings, educational panels, workshops, and community-driven events.
• Supervise and coordinate student interns, volunteers, and seasonal staff.
• Collaborate with marketing and design teams to ensure consistent branding and promotional messaging that reflects the festival's mission and values.
• Monitor budgets, track expenses, and assist with financial reconciliation post-festival.

Outreach

• Work with community leadership and the artistic director to implement a comprehensive development strategy to support the festival's mission and programming goals.
• Help research, write, and manage grants from arts foundations, community funders, and government agencies.
• Assist in cultivating and stewarding relationships with sponsors, individual donors, and institutional partners.
• Help oversee the design of donor packets, invitations, and basic promotional assets using Canva, Adobe Express, or similar tools.
• Track contributions and donor engagement using industry systems; ensure all records and acknowledgments are accurate and timely.
• Organize donor and sponsor activations during the festival and year-round engagement opportunities.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree plus 6 years of experience.
• Strong project management and communication skills; ability to lead teams and work across departments.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Google Workspace for planning, tracking, and reporting.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusive storytelling in line with the Centre Film Festival's mission.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Experience working in festival, event, or arts programming, including fundraising responsibilities in a nonprofit or arts/culture setting.
• Budget development and grant reporting experience.
• Understanding of regional arts and cultural networks, especially in rural or university-affiliated contexts.
• Experience with basic graphic design and layout software (e.g., Canva, Adobe Express, InDesign).
• Familiarity with donor databases or CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, Bloomerang)
• A passion for film, education, and community-building through the arts.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $78,444.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
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