Department

AI Feitler Center/Academic Initiatives

About the Department

As the fine arts museum of the University of Chicago, the Smart Museum of Art is a site for rigorous inquiry and exchange that encourages the examination of complex issues through the lens of art objects and artistic practice. Through strong scholarly and community collaborations and a welcoming approach to its exhibitions, collections, publications, research and teaching, and public programs, the Smart Museum plays a dynamic role in expanding artistic canons, rethinking received histories, introducing new perspectives, and engaging diverse communities - locally, nationally, and internationally.

Job Information

Job Summary:

The Temporary Program Assistant plays a key role in the creation of programs at the intersection of campus and community. These may include talks and conversations, symposia, performances, screenings, workshops, fieldtrips, tours, pop-ups, publications, and more. Reporting to the Director of the Feitler Center for Academic Inquiry and Head of Education, the Temporary Program Assistant will be responsible for supporting fiscally-sound departmental operations with sustainable initiatives, effective workflows, and a vibrant workplace culture.  

This is a temporary position, working 20-30 hours per week, for a period of approximately 12 weeks.

Responsibilities:

• Works closely with the Director of the Feitler Center and Head of Education in the successful development and delivery of innovative, inclusive, culturally-responsive, and ambitious programs, which may range between in-person, hybrid, and remote modalities.
• Collaborates with other Smart colleagues in learning and engagement to integrate campus and community thinking, insights, and feedback into programs and departmental initiatives. Participates in laying the groundwork for consistent, sustained, and diverse audience growth for learning and engagement at the Smart.
• Manages program timelines, contracts, and participant communication utilizing a team-wide project management database.
• Coordinates internal meetings, documents, and other means of transparent communications to support programs from inception to project closure.
• Representing the Smart Museum, participates in peer committees, public presentations, special events, and other opportunities for community building at the University and in Chicago.
• Assists in maintaining instruments for assessments and reports on programming initiatives and the student internship program.
• Provides supports in preparing and tracking relevant budgets, paperwork, and project documentation and communications.
• In collaboration with other Smart staff, writes and edits content for the promotion of campus and community programming, together with student engagement initiatives at the Smart.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Competencies:

• Deep knowledge of event/program coordination and design, including in-person, hybrid, and remote experiences. Familiarity with best practices and new strategies in arts-oriented program design a plus.
• Demonstratable background in developing effective, collaborative partnerships and creating programs that empower communities.
• Versed in introducing and integrating the arts across disciplinary interests, extra-curricular activities, and community-driven goals and projects.
• Proven ability to work effectively independently, in a team environment, and collaborating across organizational structures; dedicated to fostering a workplace of belonging.
• Outstanding written/oral communication, organization, time management, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong project management, creative problem solving, and conflict resolution skills.

Additional Responsibilities

Education, Experience or Certifications:

Education:

• College or university degree required.

Experience:

• 1 to 3 years of relevant work experience.
• Background in higher education and/or museum setting, non-profit arts sector, public relations, arts administration, or similar professional field.
• Background working with university students and/or university faculty and instructors.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

• Part-time position of approximately 25 hours per week.
• Temporary position for approximately 12 weeks.

 

Required Documents:

• Resume/CV
• References Contact Information (3)

Job Family

Temporary Staff

Scheduled Weekly Hours

25

Drug Test Required
 

No

Health Screen Required
 

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
 

No

Pay Frequency

Hourly

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

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FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

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Pay Range

$20.00 - $30.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

This position is not eligible for benefits.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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