"Associate Director of Artists at Work and Alumni Relations"

About Maine College of Art & Design

Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) seeks a collaborative, student- and alumni-centered Associate Director of Artists at Work & Alumni Relations to join the Artists at Work team. Located in the heart of Portland’s vibrant Arts District, MECA&D is a nationally recognized college of art and design that fosters a diverse, inclusive, and creative learning community. Artists at Work plays a central role in preparing students and alumni for meaningful, sustainable careers by providing career readiness programming, professional development resources, and experiential learning opportunities that support artistic practice and lifelong success.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of Artists at Work, the Associate Director of Artists at Work & Alumni Relations supports students and alumni as they navigate career development, professional practice, and post-graduate pathways. This role provides individualized advising, designs and delivers career readiness programming, cultivates relationships with employers and community partners, and oversees alumni engagement initiatives, including grants, residencies, exhibitions, and signature events. The Associate Director collaborates closely with faculty, staff, alumni, and external partners to ensure that career resources and opportunities are inclusive, accessible, and responsive to evolving practices in the arts and creative industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Career Advising & Programming
  • Advise and coach students and alumni on professional development topics, including résumés, cover letters, interviewing, portfolio presentation, networking, and job or internship search strategies.
  • Design, implement, and assess career readiness programs, workshops, and services aligned with learning outcomes and industry standards.
  • Create and deliver workshops and presentations using current technologies and platforms.
  • Develop and maintain online career resources, digital tools, and informational materials that support career exploration and professional preparation.
• Employer, Alumni & Community Engagement
  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with employers, alumni, artists, and community partners to expand access to internships, employment opportunities, residencies, grants, and fellowships.
  • Coordinate employer engagement and recruitment activities, including career fairs, portfolio reviews, information sessions, and networking events.
  • Support career exploration activities such as job shadowing, informational interviews, panels, and community-based learning experiences.
• Alumni Relations & Events
  • Oversee alumni services, including residency, grant, and exhibition opportunities.
  • Manage alumni programming and communications, including newsletters, exhibitions, and events.
  • Plan, organize, and execute signature events, including the Holiday Sale and the Collect Art Sale.
  • Collect, analyze, and maintain data related to alumni career pathways, employment outcomes, and industry trends to inform planning and assessment.
• Collaboration & Institutional Support
  • Collaborate with faculty and staff to integrate career readiness concepts into curricular and co-curricular experiences.
  • Contribute to marketing and communications efforts related to Artists at Work programming through print, digital, and web-based content.
  • Serve on the Career Ready Committee and support strategic initiatives in collaboration with the Director of Artists at Work.

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications / Experience / Skills & Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience required.
• Three (3) or more years of relevant professional experience.
• Experience working in higher education, arts administration, career services, or a related field.
• Experience in planning and facilitating programs, workshops, or events.
• Demonstrated experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and identities.
• Familiarity with employment trends and career pathways within the arts, creative industries, or adjacent fields.
• Background in visual arts or design preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational, and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to collaborative teams.
• Demonstrated commitment to student development, career readiness, and inclusive support practices.
• Proficiency with common workplace technologies, including Google Workspace and database or tracking systems.

Essential Functions & Work Environment

This position requires the ability to perform the essential functions of the role, with or without reasonable accommodation, in accordance with applicable federal and state law. Essential functions include remaining in a stationary position and working at a computer; moving throughout campus and off-site locations to attend meetings, programs, and events; communicating effectively verbally and in writing; facilitating workshops and presentations; managing materials and equipment related to programs (up to 25 pounds); responding to time-sensitive situations; and performing these functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

The role operates primarily in a professional office environment and involves regular interaction with students, alumni, faculty, staff, and external partners. Occasional evening and weekend work is expected based on programmatic needs and scheduled events.

What We Offer

This is a full-time, exempt position with a salary range of $50,000–$55,000 annually, commensurate with experience. Benefits include healthcare, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; short- and long-term disability insurance; flexible spending accounts; a 403(b) plan with a 5% employer match; generous paid time off; and additional benefits.

Ready to Apply?

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

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

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.