"Assistant/Associate Director of Artists at Work"

Assistant/Associate Director of Artists at Work

Company: Maine College of Art & Design

Job Location: Portland’s vibrant Arts District

Category: Career Development and Services

Type: Full-Time

Email: employment@meca.edu

About Maine College of Art & Design

Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) seeks a dynamic and student-centered Assistant/Associate Director of Artists at Work & Alumni Relations to join its Artists at Work department. Located in the heart of Portland’s vibrant Arts District, MECA&D is a nationally recognized college of art and design that cultivates a diverse and inclusive community where creativity, collaboration, and critical inquiry thrive. Our Artists at Work department connects students and alumni to meaningful professional opportunities, industry partners, and creative networks—helping them to transform their artistic practices into sustainable careers. By combining career readiness with alumni engagement, MECA&D ensures that our graduates remain lifelong members of a supportive and inspiring creative community.

Position Summary

The Assistant/Associate Director of Artists at Work & Alumni Relations plays a vital role in supporting the professional growth of students and alumni while building and sustaining long-term, meaningful alumni relationships. This multifaceted role combines career advising, coaching, and employer engagement with alumni programming, event planning, and community-building initiatives. Reporting to the Director of Artists at Work, the Assistant/Associate Director fosters opportunities for students to gain industry insights, sharpen professional skills, and successfully transition into the creative economy, while also strengthening the College’s ties with its alumni network.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise and coach students and alumni on professional development, including resumes, interviewing skills, and job/internship search strategies.
• Oversee alumni services, including residency and grant programs.
• Manage alumni programming and communications, including newsletters, exhibitions, and events.
• Plan, organize, and execute signature events such as the Holiday Sale and Collect Art Sale.
• Collaborate with faculty and industry partners to integrate career readiness into curricula.
• Foster relationships with employers, alumni, and external partners to expand student internship and job opportunities.
• Design, implement, and assess programs that build industry/career readiness skills. Collects data on alumni career paths, career outcomes, employment trends, and opportunities in the art and design fields.
• Maintain current knowledge of job market trends and revise programming accordingly.
• Contribute to departmental marketing, branding, and community engagement efforts.

What We’re Looking For Qualifications/Experience/Skills & Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience required.
• 3+ years of professional experience, preferably in higher education or arts administration.
• Experience in event planning strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success working with diverse populations and fostering inclusive environments.
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to balance multiple priorities and collaborate effectively across departments.
• Proficiency with Google Suite and related technologies.

What We Offer

This is a full-time position with a salary range of $50,000 to $55,000 annually. Benefits include healthcare, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, a 403(b) plan with a 5% employer match, generous paid time off, faculty & staff meal plan, and more.

Ready to Apply?

To apply, please submit the following as a single PDF to employment@meca.edu:

1. A cover letter describing your interest and alignment with the position;
2. A current résumé or CV;
3. A list of three to five professional references, including at least one former supervisor.

Recognizing that no candidate will possess all the relevant skills and experience, we encourage you to apply if you align with many of the qualifications and interests in this role. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Maine College of Art & Design is committed to fully including all qualified individuals. If a reasonable accommodation is required to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other employment benefits, please contact Human Resources at hr@meca.edu.