Gallery Associate/Coordinator of Public Programs

CSU Fullerton Auxiliary Services Corporation (\"ASC\"); Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Grand Central Art Center seeks a Gallery Associate/Coordinator of Public Programs to manage day‑to‑day gallery operations and support public events. You will handle front desk duties, sales, and visitor services while assisting with installations and programming.

The role demands reliability, organization, and genuine interest in contemporary art. You’ll work with artists, curators, students, and the public in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum completion of at least one college art course.
• Experience in the contemporary art world or gallery setting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Open and close galleries and operate the gallery store cash register.
• Welcome visitors, provide exhibition information, and facilitate sales.
• Coordinate public program logistics and assist with events.
• Support outreach and engagement with community partners.

Skills

Social media

Communication

Public engagement

Mac platform

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

One college art course

Tools

Mac OS

Gallery POS system

Office software

Job description

Grand Central Art Center (GCAC) is seeking a highly motivated and engaged Gallery Associate/Coordinator of Public Programs to join our team. This position plays an important role in the day‑to‑day operation of the galleries and public-facing activities of the art center. The Gallery Associate/Coordinator of Public Programs is responsible for opening and closing the galleries, operating the gallery store cash register, maintaining a welcoming and orderly front desk and gallery environment, and providing excellent service to visitors. The position also offers opportunities to assist with installations and contribute to the research, preparation, and production of exhibitions and public programs.

Responsibilities include coordinating public program logistics, assisting with media and presentation equipment, preparing spaces for events, and supporting community outreach efforts that extend GCAC's engagement with the public.

The ideal candidate is dependable, proactive, organized, and genuinely interested in contemporary art and the communities that surround it. Because GCAC operates with a small, collaborative team, each staff member contributes meaningfully to the success of the organization. We value individuals who are adaptable, comfortable taking initiative, attentive to detail, and able to move confidently between front‑of‑house responsibilities, event support, administrative tasks, and hands‑on gallery work. This position provides an opportunity to gain practical experience within a contemporary art center and to work alongside artists, curators, students, and community members. A positive, professional, and welcoming attitude is essential. Join us at Grand Central Art Center and be part of a team that transforms art into unforgettable experiences!

• Operate the gallery store cash register accurately and responsibly.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming front desk and gallery environment.
• Welcome and assist gallery visitors, provide information about exhibitions and programs, and facilitate sales.
• Respond to telephone inquiries and direct communications appropriately.
• Help maintain a safe and secure environment for visitors, staff, artists, and artwork.
• Coordinate the receipt, handling, and return of artwork for the sales gallery.
• Assist with the planning, preparation, and on‑site coordination of public programs and events.
• Support community outreach and engagement efforts that expand GCAC's visibility and relationships.
• Interact professionally with visiting artists‑in‑residence and CSUF graduate students living on site.
• Work First Saturdays and other key public programs and events, including evening and weekend hours as needed.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

• Social media prowess to amplify our reach.
• Insight into the contemporary art field and socially engaged practices.
• Stellar written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in the contemporary art world, museum, or gallery setting a plus.
• Ability to connect with diverse communities—from local neighbors and academic circles to art enthusiasts of all ages.
• Proficiency in Mac platform and Microsoft Office software.
• Flexibility to work evening and weekend hours, ensuring you're there when it matters most.

EDUCATION:

• Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent
• Minimum completion of at least one (1) college art course.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Prolonged sitting in front of computer. Walking, talking, hearing, pulling, bending, may carry 10-15 pounds of objects/material, not exposed to extreme noise level, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands or arms, stoop, kneel, taste or smell.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

CSU Fullerton, Auxiliary Services Corporation (ASC) is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, contact a Human Resources Representative at [phone].

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the ASC. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current ASC employees who apply for the position.