Organizer Information
Founded in 1968 by a diverse group of artists, community activists, and philanthropists, The Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally. It is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society. The Museum is celebrated for its catalytic role in promoting the work of visual artists of African and Afro-Latinx descent. Currently transitioning into a spectacular new home on West 125th Street, the Museum continues to serve as a leader in the cultural landscape, fostering a vibrant community through its renowned Artist-in-Residence program, expansive exhibitions, and deep commitment to the Harlem community.
Title & Description
Studio Museum Institute Coordinator
The Studio Museum Institute (SMI) is the professional development and pedagogical arm of the Museum, overseeing the training of the next generation of curators, educators, and museum professionals. The SMI Coordinator plays a pivotal role in researching, developing, and executing the administrative and programmatic functions of the Institute. This opportunity is designed for a dynamic arts professional who is passionate about mentorship and institutional strategy. The Coordinator will act as a bridge between the Museum's internal departments and a diverse cohort of fellows, interns, and museum practitioners, ensuring that the Institute’s programs remain innovative, inclusive, and impactful.
The Role Overview
- Salary: Approximately $50,000 – $60,000 annualized (Salary is commensurate with experience within the guidelines of a small not-for-profit).
- Contract Type: Full-time.
- Reporting To: Director of Studio Museum Institute.
- Programme: Studio Museum Institute (SMI).
- Work Schedule: 35–40 hours per week; occasional evening and weekend availability for events.
Position & Tasks
The SMI Coordinator is responsible for the seamless operation of the Museum’s professional development pipelines. Key tasks include:
- Program Coordination: Facilitating the recruitment, selection, orientation, and training of all interns and fellows.
- Curatorial & Research Support: Working closely with the Chief Program Officer to develop research initiatives and program concepts that align with the Museum’s mission.
- Logistics & Administration: Maintaining a robust calendar of workshops, tracking budgets, managing correspondence, and organizing culminating celebrations for program participants.
- Cohort Engagement: Facilitating regular one-on-one check-in meetings with fellows and organizing off-site excursions to other NYC cultural organizations.
- Evaluation: Conducting post-program assessments and maintaining statistics and records for institutional reporting.
- Public Interface: Periodically providing remarks at events and facilitating public-facing conversations about the Institute’s work.
Categories
Art Management, Curatorial, Research, Education, Visual Arts, and Arts Administration.
Eligibility
- Experience: Candidates should have 2–5 years of relevant professional experience in program planning or arts administration.
- Education: A Bachelor’s degree is required; an MA in Art History, Museum Studies, or a related field is highly desirable.
- Skills: Proficiency in MS Office and familiarity with community outreach strategies in New York City.
- Mission Alignment: A deep commitment to the Museum's mission and a strong interest in African American history and contemporary Black art.
- Diversity: Applicants from culturally diverse backgrounds and those historically underrepresented in the museum field are strongly encouraged to apply.
Program Benefits
- Professional Growth: Direct mentorship from senior museum leadership and the Director of SMI.
- Networking: Access to a broad network of artists, scholars, and practitioners within the NYC arts ecosystem.
- Compensation: Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and life insurance.
- Institutional Impact: The opportunity to help shape the inaugural programs of the Museum’s new building.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Cover Letter: Highlighting relevant experience and motivation for joining the Studio Museum.
- Résumé / CV.
- Professional References: To be provided upon request during the interview stage.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: Ongoing
- Anticipated Start Date: Spring 2026.
Location
New York, NY (Harlem), United States
Additional Details
The Studio Museum in Harlem is an equal-opportunity employer. The candidate must be equipped to think broadly and innovatively about the Museum’s artist-centered mission while managing complex administrative workflows. Physical demands include the ability to lift program supplies and set up A/V equipment for workshops.