Arts Programs Manager

Norfolk Arts creates a vibrant, inclusive cultural environment that reflects and celebrates the people of Norfolk. We bring the community together through the arts, support local artists and organizations, manage the City’s public art and grants programs, and serve as a central resource for arts and cultural communication.

Norfolk Arts is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Program Arts Manager to support the City’s arts grants program, public art initiatives, gallery operations, and community engagement efforts. This position plays an important role in delivering accessible, high-quality arts experiences to residents across Norfolk.

We are looking for candidates with a strong foundation in the arts or humanities, solid professional experience, and the ability to work collaboratively in a community-focused environment. The ideal candidate brings reliability, strong organizational skills, and comfort learning new systems—including grant management and financial software.

In addition to supporting daily operations, this role offers the opportunity to contribute ideas, identify opportunities, and help shape the future direction of Norfolk Arts programs. Candidates with emerging leadership skills and a forward-looking perspective are encouraged to apply.

If you are interested in contributing to a mission-driven municipal arts program and supporting creative work that reflects and celebrates Norfolk’s diverse communities, we welcome your application.

Essential Functions

Support the administration of the City’s arts grants program.

Assist with public art projects, artist communication, and project coordination.

Help staff the Norfolk Arts Commission, including meeting preparation and follow up.

Support gallery exhibitions and artist opportunities.

Assist with community engagement, events, and neighborhood arts initiatives.

Contribute to team planning, communication, and day-to-day operations.

Learn and use the City’s grant management software, basic accounting procedures, and the City’s financial system to enter and track grant contracts.

Develop innovative concepts that enhance programs and projects through creative problem solving, long‑range planning, and contributions that influence direction and outcomes.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in fine arts, theatre, creative writing, arts administration, or a related humanities field.

Three to five years of relevant work experience.

Demonstrated ability to work reliably in a professional environment, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.

Experience collaborating with diverse groups, including artists, nonprofits, and community partners.

Demonstrated computer aptitude and comfort learning new software systems.

Work Schedule
Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Benefits
Regular full‑time and permanent part‑time employees may receive paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, and an employer‑paid pension plan. Benefits also include basic life insurance, voluntary participation in medical and dental coverage, Section 457 deferred compensation, long‑term disability, optional life insurance covering self, spouse and children, medical and dependent care reimbursement plans, access to credit‑union membership, and employer‑provided parking.

Special project or grant employees generally receive the same benefits as regular full‑time employees; however, retirement, life insurance, and participation in health plans vary depending on funding and authorization.

Temporary, seasonal, and part‑time employees may be eligible for employer‑provided parking and access to credit‑union membership only.

Retirement contributions: For employees hired October 5 2010 or later, a 5% salary contribution to the City of Norfolk Retirement System is required. For employees hired January 1 2022 or later, a 5% salary contribution to the Virginia Retirement System is required.

Tuition Assistance Program: Eligible employees who have completed six months of continuous service may apply to enroll in an accredited institution at no cost to the employee.

Additional Information
Positions designated as “Non‑City” are not subject to the above benefits and may have different eligibility criteria. Refer to the specific job posting for details.

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