Arts Specialists

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Under general supervision, this position is responsible for the organization, direction, supervision, and planning of arts and crafts activities for citizens of all ages, and for the supervision of staff and volunteers in the instruction of arts, crafts, dance, etc. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

Organizes and directs arts/crafts programs – Determines the need and/or demand for various arts and crafts programs and activities; plans, organizes, and leads a variety of art programs, classes, and activities; provides instructions to program participants and directs them in the principles, rules, practices, etc. of the specific activity or program in which they are participating; demonstrates methods and techniques to participants as required; researches available materials to learn about or maintain an awareness of developing trends, new techniques or methods, changes, etc., and communicates necessary or useful information to participants. Monitors program participants – Evaluates the individual needs and abilities of program participants in order to tailor programs to each individual or group; monitors the performance and progress of each individual in order to identify any modifications which might be necessary; observes participants to ensure that activities are properly performed and that equipment and supplies are correctly used; renders emergency first aid to injured or stricken participants as needed. Manages arts facility – Supervises facility events and activities in order to ensure orderly conduct, resolve disputes, etc.; enforces facility rules and ejects unruly or unauthorized individuals as necessary; patrols facilities to detect damage or needed repair, and reports same to appropriate authorities; assists in cleaning and maintaining facilities and equipment; orders and maintains necessary supplies, materials, and equipment; opens, closes, and secures facility. Assists in coordinating facility use – Assists in organizing and scheduling events, classes, workshops, and activities; makes reservations for participants, and otherwise coordinates the use of the facility; greets patrons and informs them of activity and event schedules, registration requirements, facility rules, etc.; keeps attendance records or otherwise maintains information regarding facility use and participants; arranges equipment, supplies, tables and chairs, etc. in designated rooms or other areas to prepare for scheduled activities. 

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS 

Supervises employees – Supervises the activities of subordinates (contract instructors, part-time staff, volunteers, etc.) in the daily performance of their assigned duties; monitors the activities of subordinates in order to ensure adherence to departmental rules and regulations, safety procedures, etc.; maintains order and control of subordinates; monitors, checks, and verifies employees’ time. Performs related work as required. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

Knowledge of arts/crafts program development – Knowledge of the theory, principles, practices, and techniques employed in defining program needs; planning, developing, implementing, evaluating, and managing individualized or group arts/crafts programs; knowledge of instructional methods and techniques used in the preparation and delivery of individualized or group programs; knowledge of resources available for the development of specialized programs; knowledge of the techniques and methods used to assess, evaluate, and monitor the physical and mental capabilities of program participants, and to tailor programs or activities accordingly. Knowledge of arts/crafts program structure and concepts, etc.- Knowledge of the methods, concepts, techniques, etc. which apply to a variety of arts/crafts programs and activities, and the physical and mental capabilities required to participate in such activities; knowledge of common mediums such as painting, clay, ceramics, print making, etc. Knowledge of arts/crafts facilities and equipment – Knowledge of the facilities, equipment, and supplies required for the effective administration of arts/crafts programs; knowledge of the safe and proper use of required equipment, materials, supplies (including working with ceramics and kilns (loading, firing, and maintenance), identifying and mixing glazes, paints, clay, fabrics, throwing wheels, etc.)) Knowledge of basic safety procedures – Knowledge of the principles and practices for ensuring the safety of program participants; ability to recognize symptoms or situations requiring medical attention; basic knowledge of emergency first aid procedures (e.g., CPR). Knowledge of supervisory practices and techniques – Knowledge of the principles and practices of effective supervision; knowledge of methods and practices of training subordinates in a variety of areas for the improvement of performance. Interpersonal skills – Skill in communicating with a wide variety of people to provide general information, recommend activities or programs, offer encouragement, etc.; ability to apply positive reinforcement and motivational techniques and methods in counseling and advising program participants; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public and other employees; ability to enforce facility rules and regulations, and to appropriately discipline offenders; ability to resolve conflicts between individuals and/or groups. Knowledge of record-keeping procedures – Knowledge of the procedures and requirements for the accurate completion of a variety of forms and/or reports; knowledge of the appropriate distribution, maintenance, and location of records and reports. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

This position consists of medium work, requiring the incumbent to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 20 pounds (or less) of force frequently, in order to lift/carry, push/pull, or otherwise move objects. A description of the specific physical requirements associated with this position is maintained on file in the Human Resources office for review upon request. 

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS 

This position uses relevant principles and procedures to solve practical problems and to deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. A description of the specific mental requirements associated with this position is maintained on file in the Human Resources office for review upon request. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS 

Graduation from a standard high school or equivalent and either: Graduation from a two-year college program or completion of two (2) years coursework toward a four-year degree in Art Education or related field from a CHEA accredited college or university OR Two (2) years of experience providing arts and crafts instruction. Must participate in CPR training and acquire CPR Certification, at the City’s expense, during the probationary period, and be re-certified annually. Must be willing to work flexible hours and occasional Saturdays. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

The hiring authority may give preference to candidates who possess one (1) year of experience in ceramics and working with kilns. 

HYBRID WORK ELIGIBILITY 

This position is ineligible for hybrid work.