What are the responsibilities and job description for the Visual and Performing Arts Program Manager position at Middlesex County?
Overview
The Division of Visual and Performing Arts within the Arts Institute of Middlesex County (AIMC) promotes arts, culture, folklife, and history as essential to vibrant communities and economic vitality. As part of the Department of Economic Development, the Division fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, advances equity and inclusion, and supports New Jersey artists and cultural institutions. We seek a detail-oriented Visual and Performing Arts administrator eager to engage with the County’s diverse cultural landscape. The ideal candidate is passionate about visual and performing arts, public art, and public service, with strong communication skills to engage artists, nonprofits, municipal entities, and the public.
Reporting to the Division Head of Visual and Performing Arts, the Visual and Performing Arts Program Manager will oversee projects, including Arts and Health programs, Public Arts initiatives, grant management, interdisciplinary collaborations, and public events while supporting program planning, implementation, data collection, and reporting. This role requires collaboration across County divisions and external partners. Based at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, the position involves travel within and occasionally beyond Middlesex County.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Program and Event Management
- Manage assigned arts programs and events, providing administrative and on-site support.
- Oversee Public Art Program operations, including mapping inventories, guides, procedures, contracts, and payments.
- Assist in planning and executing Arts and Health programs, interdisciplinary collaborations, and public outreach initiatives.
- Support the coordination of free public arts and culture events.
Stakeholder Engagement and Communications
- Serve as the primary liaison for artists, grantees, consultants, municipalities, and arts organizations.
- Attend state and county meetings on behalf of the Arts Institute.
- Assist with public outreach efforts, tabling, and surveying at community events.
Grants and Compliance Support
- Assist with grant management and compliance, including site visits to grantees and attending their events.
- Support the maintenance of ADA equipment and staff training.
Administrative and Financial Oversight
- Submit event content for public calendars and promotional platforms.
- Process resolutions, invoices, and purchase orders.
- Track and document program outcomes for reporting purposes.
QUALIFICATIONS
- 3 years of experience in Arts Administration (strongly preferred), with experience in Public Arts Administration a plus.
- Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred in a related field.
- Strong organizational, project management, and communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and Zoom, with the ability to learn new software.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across teams.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within Middlesex County.
- Availability for occasional evening and weekend events.
For more information on the Arts Institute of Middlesex County, visit: https://discovermiddlesex.com/arts-institute/
Middlesex County is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.
