Pratt Institute is hiring: Chairperson - Photography Department (71102) in New Y

Chairperson - Photography Department (71102)

Salary: $135,000.00 - $160,000.00 Annually

Location: NY, NY

Job Number: 202500257

Department: Photography

Closing: 1/18/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

About Pratt

Pratt Institute provides the creative leaders of tomorrow the professional knowledge and experience to make a better world. A world-class and internationally ranked college with programs in art, design, architecture, liberal arts and sciences, and information studies, Pratt offers nearly 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

The Institute's impact expands beyond its 25-acre residential campus in Brooklyn to cutting-edge facilities throughout the borough, a landmark building and public gallery in Manhattan, as well as an extension campus, Pratt Munson College of Art and Design in Utica, New York. On Governors Island, Pratt is a core partner on the Stony Brook University team selected to develop the New York Climate Exchange, a research and educational hub poised to establish New York City as the global leader for the most pressing issue of our time: climate change. Another extension of Pratt's campus is the Research Yard, a 20,000-square-foot facility that brings together the research activities of Pratt Institute under one roof in the Brooklyn Navy Yard (BNY).

Since our founding in 1887, Pratt has upheld the belief that education should be accessible to all who wish to learn. As a community, we define ourselves as standard setters who are:

• Resourceful and collaborative problem solvers,
• Socially responsible and equity-centered creatives,
• Adaptable and resilient global stewards,
• Inquisitive and compassionate community members.

Position Summary

The Department of Photography at Pratt Institute seeks an exceptional artist for the position of Departmental Chairperson, beginning in July 2026. The ideal candidate will bring the vision and experience necessary to assume academic and administrative leadership, to prepare students for success, promote technological innovation, and help the department contribute to define the future of the field. The department houses two degrees: a BFA and an MFA in Photography, serving approximately 200 students, with five full-time faculty, approximately twenty adjunct faculty, and five technical staff. This administrative position is appointed on a three-year contract with potential for renewal and reports to the Dean of the School of Art.

Department Description

The department's curriculum offers an expansive view of photography as a dynamic, multifaceted practice that encourages new and adventurous approaches, collaborations, and critical perspectives. This perspective is supported by a strong historical and theoretical background, preparing students to flourish as independent artists, professional photographers, and leaders in creative and professional fields. The department's facilities exist in two locations to serve both undergraduate and graduate students respectively, including a brand new, state-of-the-art studio complex at the Brooklyn Navy Yard's Dock 72 building, as well as: digital photography labs with large-format printers, film scanners, computer labs with industry-standard editing software; a black-and-white darkroom; a non-silver process studio; and a 1,500-square-foot shooting and lighting studio. Each program features a gallery dedicated to exhibiting student work.

Examples of Duties

• Oversight of all academic programs in the department;
• Proactively managing recruitment and retention efforts to assure healthy cohorts in the graduate and undergraduate programs;
• Developing with faculty, the department curricula and other educational programs and activities;
• Facilitating department-level Program Learning Outcome assessment and periodic comprehensive program review;
• Recruiting, hiring, supervising, and mentoring faculty and staff;
• Supervising and managing the departmental budget, learning spaces, and related resources and equipment;
• Creating a welcoming environment in the department, managing conflict, advising and addressing student concerns;
• Interfacing and collaborating with technical staff and other departments on campus to effectively manage and share resources;
• Participating in the outreach efforts of the Institute to alumni and the community, the region, and predicting and responding to transformative changes in the field on multiple levels as a practical operational leader and also as a thought leader;
• Facilitating conversations with the industry and the greater photographic community in the area;
• Steering high-profile showcase events such as gallery exhibitions, workshops, screenings, and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Qualifications

We value candidates whose professional and academic experience demonstrate creative practices and pedagogical approaches, as well as effective and inclusive communication skills. We especially value candidates who are eager to participate fully in the intellectual, cultural, and community life of Pratt.

Education: MFA or a terminal degree or its equivalent in Photography or a related field.

Experience/Skills:

• At least five year's administrative management in higher education required; an innovation mindset
• A minimum of five year's college-level teaching experience at the undergraduate and/or graduate level with the rank of Associate or Full Professor;
• Recognized standing in the field; proven achievement in exhibitions, publications, and/or scholarship;
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills;
• Demonstrated alignment of your research, scholarship and work with the values of Pratt, and the ability to communicate well with diverse populations;
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff and management;
• Familiarity with photography as an expansive field,
• Ability to support diverse student pathways, research, and practice in related fields.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• HSA
• Company Sponsored Basic Life & AD&D
• Company Sponsored Long Term Disability
• Flex Spending Account (Health, Dependant Care)
• Commuter Benefits (Transit & Parking)
• Disability (NYS)
• Voluntary Short Term Disability
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• 403B Retirement Plan
• Voluntary Supplemental Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off (Vac & Sick)

Supplemental Information

Applications Instructions:

• a detailed letter of intent addressing your interest in the position
• a curriculum vitae
• a portfolio of 10 examples of recent creative/professional work
• a statement of administrative philosophy
• a statement demonstrating alignment of your research, scholarship and work with the values of Pratt as described in this position description
• the names and contact information for three professional references.

We are currently unable to support new H-1B visas for candidates residing outside of the United States.

Salary

Commensurate with experience and qualifications. This administrative appointment carries a twelve-month per year workload and a three-year contract that may be renewed.

About the School

Pratt School of Art provides a rigorous, student-centered education that encourages risk-taking and exploration. We are a dynamic community of students, faculty, and staff committed to meeting the challenges of the 21st century. Our programs develop through a mutual, sustained process of critique, articulation, and reflection, and foster an interdisciplinary environment that allows students to broaden their creative thinking and pursuits. Guided by outstanding faculty, students learn to integrate theory and practice, develop their creative voices, and actively engage with the world.

Values of Pratt

• Resourceful and collaborative problem solvers,
• Socially responsible and equity-centered creatives,
• Adaptable and resilient global stewards,
• Inquisitive and compassionate community members.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Pratt Institute recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.

At Pratt, we prioritize equity and have established a systematic approach to guarantee fair treatment for everyone. If your background and expertise align with the requirements of the position, you will be contacted for further instructions.

How to Apply

To apply, visit: https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/pratt/jobs/5111187/chairperson-photography-department-71102