Exhibitions & Arts Center Coordinator

WaterFire Arts Center Gallery; Rhode Island; On-site; USD 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic arts nonprofit in Rhode Island is looking for an Exhibitions & Arts Center Coordinator to manage visual arts exhibitions and related programming. This role requires strong organizational and communication skills to ensure engaging experiences for all visitors. Candidates should have a background in arts administration and be prepared to oversee gallery operations and manage staff. Ideal salary ranges from $42,000 to $50,000 with benefits including health insurance and paid time off.

Benefits

Health and dental insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Retirement savings options

Professional growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in gallery or museum coordination, exhibition production, or arts administration.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with artists, vendors, and cross-functional teams.
• Supervisory experience or comfort mentoring interns and volunteers.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate exhibition schedules and timelines.
• Serve as the primary liaison to exhibiting artists.
• Manage front-of-house staffing.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Project management

Collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in art or related field

Job description

About WaterFire ProvidenceWaterFire Providence is an award-winning arts nonprofit known for its large-scale public art events and dynamic programming at the WaterFire Arts Center. We use art as a catalyst for community building, economic development, and creative expression.

Position Summary

The Exhibitions & Arts Center Coordinator shapes the public experience of visual arts at the WaterFire Arts Center by ensuring that exhibitions and related programming are accessible, engaging, and aligned with WaterFire’s creative mission. This role leads the coordination and execution of visual arts exhibitions and public programs; serves as the primary liaison for exhibiting artists; manages gallery operations and logistics; and supports interpretation and audience engagement strategies. The Coordinator also contributes to the overall visitor experience and manages front-of-house staff to ensure a welcoming and high-quality for all guests.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate exhibition schedules and timelines, including install/de-install planning and cross-departmental communication
• Serve as the primary liaison to exhibiting artists and collaborators; manage contracts, communications, and support needs
• Supervise gallery assistants, interns, and volunteers to ensure smooth daily operations and strong visitor service
• Manage front-of-house staffing at the WaterFire Arts Center, including scheduling, onboarding, and day-to-day oversight as needed
• Oversee exhibition logistics and budget tracking, including vendor coordination, supply purchases, and installation support
• Conduct research and collaborate on the development of interpretive materials, including wall text, print collateral, and digital content
• Plan and coordinate public programs such as gallery openings, artist talks, and special events.
• Contribute to audience engagement strategies including events, tours, and public programs tied to exhibitions
• Maintain the physical gallery space and ensure readiness for exhibitions, openings, and daily visitors
• Support documentation efforts and maintain accurate exhibition records, including artwork details, contracts, and reporting materials for press and funders
• Track visitor data, artist feedback, and program outcomes to support evaluation and planning
• Partner with internal teams to align on communications, outreach, and public experiences with WaterFire’s brand and impact goals
• Other responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor

Qualifications

• Experience in gallery or museum coordination, exhibition production, or arts administration
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with an ability to manage multiple projects and timelines
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with artists, vendors, and cross-functional teams
• Attention to detail, especially in managing budgets, contracts, and installation schedules
• Familiarity with best practices in exhibition planning, art handling, and audience engagement
• Comfort with writing and editing interpretive content; design or media production skills a plus
• Supervisory experience or comfort mentoring interns and volunteers; experience managing front-of-house staff or visitor services
• Flexible, resourceful, and committed to inclusive, community-centered arts programming
• Ability to work evenings/weekends as needed for exhibitions and events; must be able to lift 50 lbs
• Bachelor’s degree in art, arts administration, museum studies, or a related field preferred
• Salary range: $42,000–$50,000, commensurate with experience
• Health and dental insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement savings options (opt-in)
• Opportunities for professional growth and creative impact

To ApplyPlease submit your resume, a brief cover letter, and a link to a portfolio or relevant design samples via Indeed. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

WaterFire Providence is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and strongly encourage candidates from historically underrepresented communities to apply.