JOB OPPORTUNITY

Director of Program Operations

Description

DIRECTOR OF PROGRAM OPERATIONS

The GARNER Arts Center, a contemporary, experiential arts organization on the grounds of a 14-acre, pre-Civil War industrial campus known as the GARNER Historic District just 35 miles north of Manhattan, is looking for a dedicated and self-motivated creative director to be the face and voice of programming for what was twice voted "Best Arts Center in the Lower Hudson Valley" by Hudson Valley Magazine.

As GARNER embarks on its next phase of growth, it is seeking applicants for the part-time position of Director of Program Operations. Candidates should be motivated, resourceful and adept at working independently, collaboratively and strategically, with the ability to shift from the practical to the innovative and move easily from idea generation to program execution.

The Program Director is responsible for steering each project from inception to conclusion - including program design, marketing and promotion, implementation, supervision and oversight, and evaluation to ensure that each activity aligns with GARNER’s mission and standards and meets the requirements of GARNER’s grantors.  

A typical day might include drafting a budget for a film series, creating an Artist Spotlight reel promoting the opening of an exhibition, meeting with the Board of Directors fundraising committee, setting up a projector and chairs for an immersive multi-media performance, and giving a tour to regional dignitaries, collaborators or local artists eager to pitch ambitious projects.

The ideal candidate has a creative programming background with strong oral and written communication skills, experience with fiscal management, grant writing, social media marketing and graphic art skills, the ability to pivot and shift gears, and the genuine interest to interact with people of all ages, cultural and economic backgrounds and views. 

The Director, along with GARNER’s Director of Gallery Operations, will represent and promote GARNER as a leading cultural institution in the Hudson Valley and serve as an essential liaison for the arts in our local and regional community and to the thriving community of makers working within the GARNER Historic District. This position is an exciting and rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the arts in the Hudson Valley.

Qualifications: Min. 3-5 years of experience in creative program development, arts administration, or management and coordination in a related field, i.e. visual or theater arts. Bachelor's degree or higher education preferred. Prior performance art background or event coordinator experience is a plus. Working familiarity with Google Workspace, Meta, Outlook, Excel, Canva and the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite is desirable.

Hours: This is a part-time position working approximately 25 hours per week. Ability to work flexible hours is a must as this position requires working some evenings and weekends as needed for the execution of programs.

Compensation: Part-time salary: $40k. Benefits include comp time, hybrid work potential, paid holidays, paid vacation and paid sick time. 

Application Deadline : 10/30/2026

GARNER Arts Center is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to equity and inclusion throughout every aspect of our work and team. 

How to apply

Please submit a Cover Letter stating why you are interested in becoming GARNER's Director of Program Operations, along with your resume detailing your experience and qualifications.