Visual Arts Institute, Instructors, Summer Youth and Precollege Programs in the Arts (Technical Specialist (CSL), SL-1)

Job Description

Posting Number: S407P

Application Deadline: 6/12/2026

Department: S407P

FT - PT: Full Time

Part-time %:

Minimum Salary: $3,000 (additional $670 stipend for lead instructor responsibilities)

Maximum Salary: $3,150 (additional $670 stipend for lead instructor responsibilities)

Description:

The School of Continuing Education at Purchase College, SUNY seeks candidates for 2 Instructor positions from June 29 - July 24, 2026. The Visual Arts Institute instructor positions are full-time 30 hours/week; Monday, June 29 - Friday, July 24 (20 sessions; participation in Open House April 25, 2026; 9:45 - 12 noon); attendance at one Summer Staff Orientation meeting (June 25, 5PM-PM or June 27,10AM- 12PM). The position reports to the Visual Arts & Writing Programs Coordinator in the School of Continuing Education.

Visual Arts Institute, grades 10 - 12, 4-week program.This four-week precollege program offers a unique opportunity for students, who have completed their freshman year of high school, to work with practicing artists in a variety of media at Purchase College. Students explore drawing, painting, sculpture and mixed media in hands-on focused workshops designed to provide experience in techniques and materials in the major disciplines. Perfect for students preparing for art school or looking to grow as artists, it's an opportunity to build a strong foundation in observational drawing, experiment with new techniques, and develop a personal style in a supportive studio environment.

Led by a team of accomplished instructors, one with expertise in drawing and painting, the other with expertise in 3-D sculpture. Mornings consist of Master Workshops in Observational Drawing and Painting or in Sculpture. Afternoons, students are divided into groups that rotate between 2 weeks of Figure Drawing and 2 weeks of Sculpture.

The Lead Instructor's expertise may be in either Drawing and Painting or in 3-D Sculpture. A second instructor will be hired for the other area of expertise.

The primary responsibility of the lead instructor position is, with the collaboration of the second instructor, to plan for and execute cohesive activities that support the above program description. The lead instructor should possess good organizational skills. This is a well-established program with a syllabus that can be used as a resource. With the assistance of the second instructor, the lead instructor is also responsible for planning and executing a culminating event to be held on the last day of the program. Both instructors are also responsible for the overall safety of the students.

With the lead instructor taking primary responsibility, the instructors' duties include, but are not limited to: creating curriculum, syllabus, and a culminating event, reviewing supplies on hand and providing list of any additional supply requests. The Lead instructor is also responsible for supervising Teacher's Assistants.

Qualifications:

Knowledge of/experience in visual arts and teaching experience preferred.An undergraduate degree is required - preferably in visual arts or related field. A Master's degree in education, visual arts, and/or teaching certification are pluses. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience: in teaching visual arts in a K-12 setting and/or camp setting.

The successful candidates must possess strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills. Additionally, he/she/they must enjoy working with children and have a commitment to the performing arts.

Required Documents

1. Cover Letter (maximum one-page) expressing interest in the position and summarizing qualifications.
2. Resume specifying work experience and education.
3. List of References (names, addresses, and email addresses of three (3) references who can speak to your experience related to this position.

Special Note:

State employees will be hired under Technical Assistant (CSL), SL-1; non-State employees will be hired as vendors/independent contractors.