Programs Manager: Public Engagement & Research

University of Pennsylvania; United States; On-site; USD 56,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Tuition benefits

Retirement plans

Flexible work hours

Job summary

University of Pennsylvania’s Institute of Contemporary Art seeks a Programs Manager to oversee complex projects for Public Engagement & Research, coordinating with internal teams and external partners to ensure efficient operations.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree and 2–3 years of experience, strong communication and project management skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment across campus and the arts community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 2 to 3 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• Be a generous, thoughtful, and clear communicator.
• Be highly self-directed, organized, and proactive.
• Demonstrate strong project management skills with a keen eye for detail.

Responsibilities

• Serve as project manager for ICA Department of Public Engagement & Research programs, from early-stage planning to on-site implementation.
• Lead communications with artists, speakers, collaborators, and production vendors; coordinate logistics; maintain event supplies inventory, supervise contract event staff; and track budgets, benchmarks, and deliverables.
• Coordinate closely with the Audio/Visual Manager, Senior Coordinator for Visitor Services, and other ICA departments to ensure seamless production of programs and events.
• Support alignment of public engagement initiatives with exhibition, communications, and institutional goals.
• Manage the administrative operations of the Public Engagement Department, including scheduling, correspondence, travel arrangements, contracting, invoicing, and partnership documentation.
• Maintain efficient workflows and records that support the department’s strategic priorities.
• Develop reports and documentation to inform institutional planning and measure program impact.
• Assist in developing new systems and tools that strengthen departmental efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability.
• Contribute ideas to improve audience experience and expand ICA’s reach and impact in the community and field.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Skills

Communication

Organization

Project management

Teamwork

Writing

Time management

Diversity & inclusion

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

University of Pennsylvania’s Institute of Contemporary Art seeks a Programs Manager to oversee complex projects for Public Engagement & Research, coordinating with internal teams and external partners to ensure efficient operations.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree and 2–3 years of experience, strong communication and project management skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment across campus and the arts community.