Public Engagement Programs Manager for Contemporary Art

University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 56,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Tuition benefits

Retirement plans

Flexible work hours

Wellness programs

Job summary

University of Pennsylvania's Institute for Contemporary Art seeks a Programs Manager to oversee Public Engagement & Research projects, liaising with artists and vendors, and managing budgets and schedules. This full-time role emphasizes collaboration across departments and external partners to advance ICA's mission and impact.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree with 2–3 years of experience, strong communication, and proficient use of MS Office, Adobe, Google Drive, and Eventbrite.

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.
• Thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced, team-based environment.
• Possess strong writing, administrative, and time management skills.
• Be comfortable managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Have a demonstrated commitment to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable institution.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Suite, Google Drive, Eventbrite, and project management softwares will be beneficial.

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

Project management

Time management

Collaboration

Attention to detail

Diversity & equity

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

Adobe Suite

Google Drive

Eventbrite

Project management software

Job description

University of Pennsylvania's Institute for Contemporary Art seeks a Programs Manager to oversee Public Engagement & Research projects, liaising with artists and vendors, and managing budgets and schedules. This full-time role emphasizes collaboration across departments and external partners to advance ICA's mission and impact.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree with 2–3 years of experience, strong communication, and proficient use of MS Office, Adobe, Google Drive, and Eventbrite.