Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from Maine College of Art & Design
Job overview
The Director of Artists at Work at Maine College of Art & Design leads career services to support students and alumni in professional development and employment opportunities within the arts community.
Responsibilities and impact
The Director cultivates employer relationships, integrates professional development into curricula, manages internships, delivers workshops, oversees budgets, and coordinates communications and alumni career services.
Compensation and benefits
The position offers a starting salary of $70,000 annually, healthcare, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, a 403(b) plan with 5% employer match, paid time off, and a faculty & staff meal plan.
Experience and skills
Requires a Bachelor's degree (Master's preferred) with 5+ years in arts administration, career services, or related fields, experience managing staff and programs, strong communication skills, and familiarity with career services software and industry trends.
Career development
The role offers opportunities to lead strategic career development programs and collaborate across departments, supporting professional growth in arts education and administration.
Work environment and culture
MECA&D fosters an inclusive, collaborative environment emphasizing creativity, critical inquiry, and support for artists and educators in Portland's Arts District.
Company information
Maine College of Art & Design is an inclusive arts institution located in Portland, Maine, dedicated to nurturing artists and designers through education and community engagement.
Team overview
The Director reports to the Dean of Undergraduate Studies and works closely with faculty, the Associate Director of Artists at Work & Alumni Relations, and other departments.
Job location and travel
The job is based in Portland, Maine, within the vibrant Arts District, with no specific mention of remote work or travel requirements.
Application process
Applicants must submit a cover letter, résumé or CV, and three professional references as a single PDF to employment@meca.edu; the position remains open until filled.
Unique job features
This senior role uniquely integrates career services with curricular and co-curricular activities, emphasizing creative entrepreneurship and public engagement in the arts.
Company overview
Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) is a private art school located in Portland, Maine, specializing in fostering creativity and innovation through its undergraduate and graduate programs in fine arts, design, and related disciplines. Established in 1882, it has a rich history of supporting artistic education and community engagement, making it a cornerstone of Portland's vibrant arts scene. The institution generates revenue primarily through tuition, fees, and donations, while also hosting exhibitions and events that connect students with the broader art community. Known for its emphasis on hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, MECA&D is committed to cultivating the next generation of artists and designers. Candidates should note its strong focus on community impact and its reputation for nurturing creative talent.
How to land this job
Position your resume to emphasize your leadership in career services, arts administration, and program development, highlighting experience with student and alumni professional development.
Focus on showcasing skills in building employer partnerships, internship coordination, and integrating career counseling within academic curricula, as well as familiarity with career services software like Handshake.
Apply through multiple platforms including Maine College of Art & Design's official employment email, their corporate website, and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility.
Connect with current staff in the career services and arts administration divisions on LinkedIn; start conversations by complimenting recent initiatives at MECA&D or asking about the integration of professional development in the curriculum.
Optimize your resume for ATS by including keywords such as 'career counseling,' 'arts administration,' 'internship program management,' 'professional development,' and 'Handshake software' to ensure it passes automated screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify all relevant job posting locations, and find LinkedIn contacts for networking, allowing you to focus your time on preparing for interviews and enhancing your portfolio.
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