Current Opportunities

A Love Letter for You by Steve Powers. Photo by Adam Wallacavage.

About Us 

Mural Arts Philadelphia is the nation’s largest public art program, dedicated to the belief that art ignites change. For over 35 years, Mural Arts has united artists and communities through a collaborative process rooted in the traditions of mural-making to create art that transforms public spaces and individual lives. Mural Arts Philadelphia exists to provide transformative experiences, progressive discourse, and economic stimulus to the City of Philadelphia.

Our mission: Through participatory public art, Mural Arts Philadelphia inspires change in people, place, and practice, creating opportunities for a more just and equitable Philadelphia.

DEIB statement: Mural Arts seeks candidates who value and demonstrate the following core competencies: committed problem solving, deep thinking and fearless creation, inquisitive learning, thoughtful communication, mindful collaboration, personal accountability, and a commitment to actively prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. Mural Arts Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Water Shed Program Manager 

Position Overview:

Reporting to the Project Curator and the Project Management Office, the Water Shed Program Manager is responsible for overseeing day to day operations of the Water Shed storefront, and organizing programming, events, and community outreach. They manage finances and recordkeeping, oversee contractors and supervise Water Shed support staff.

Created in 2023 by Mural Arts Philadelphia with the support of the Philadelphia Water Department and the Academy of Natural Sciences, Waterway Arts Initiative empowers flood resilience in Germantown through community-driven art, resources, education, and science at a central hub, The Water Shed, for learning and community engagement.
The Water Shed storefront, located at 5300 Wayne Ave, runs a resident artist program, offers free educational programming for adults and youth, hosts community group and partner meetings, paid science research opportunities and open hours for the public. The Water Shed is open to all. We are located on the ground floor offering wheelchair accessibility with two accessible restrooms.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Community/Outreach
    • Coordinate relationships with partner organizations in Germantown – SoLo, Chew and Belfield Neighbors, G.R.E.A.T, Penn Knox Neighborhood Association
    • Coordinate relationships with City, State, and National partners in order to schedule programs and gather resources – Philadelphia Water Dept, Office of Sustainability, Office of Emergency Management, FEMA, and City Council
    • Support Project Curator(s) and community partners in executing programs at the Water Shed
  • Program Management
    • Oversee the calendar schedule and coverage for weekly programs, Saturday workshops, and open hours
    • Meeting with Project Curators(s), Executive Director, Director of Finance, Project Management Office, Director of Communications, and Chief Operating Officer as necessary to provide updates and receive direction and approvals
    • Recruit and train community members to staff programs, events, and open hours
    • Schedule and conduct/supervise/organize workshops
    • Operate regular hours at the Water Shed in coordination with the program leads, project directors, and hired staff
    • Maintain Water Shed communications – email, social media, phone messages, eventbrite pages
    • Order supplies for daily operations, programming, open hours, and artist projects as needed using MAP credit card
    • Be the local contact person for the Water Shed (package delivery, maintenance workers, etc)
    • Provide basic upkeep at the Water Shed (cleaning etc, inform COO, Director of Finance, and landlord of any issues, etc.) and coordinate regular cleanings of the Water Shed
    • Oversee social media posts and coordinate with MAP communications team for event coverage
    • Oversee day to day operations of resident artists program for MAP/Water Shed
    • Manage the annual budget, expense tracking in coordination with the Project Director(s), Executive Director, Project Management Office, Director of Finance

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience required
  • Clear and effective communication skills, written and verbal
  • Excellent interpersonal/relationship skills with people of diverse opinion and background
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Tools, and experience with project management software (preferred)
  • Committed to the mission of Mural Arts Philadelphia and environmental responsibility
  • Familiarity with the Germantown neighborhood preferred

Other Requirements:

  • Work will primarily be onsite at 5300 Wayne Avenue Philadelphia PA 19144 with some remote hours as needed.
  • Must be able to travel to the Water Shed as needed, and be available for evening and weekend events with advanced notice.
  • Must maintain a personal computer for position-related tasks.
  • Ability to physically perform the duties listed above and work in the environmental conditions required such as maneuvering in an office or workspace, use of a computer/laptop for several hours at a time; Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs

Compensation: This is an independent contractor position for approximately 25 hours per week, $30/hr. The project term is November 2024 through September 2025.

To Apply: Please send your resume and statement of interest to info@water-shed.org with the subject line “Water Shed Program Manager Opportunity.”

Lead Teaching Artist & Muralist 

The City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program is seeking a Lead Teaching Artist and Muralist for its Art Education department, which serves over 2,000 opportunity youth annually through in and out-of-school programming at 25+ sites across the city.

The ideal candidate will have a background in youth education, strong facilitation and partnership-building skills. They will also be a big picture thinker with an innovative, community-minded artistic practice and demonstrated commitment to the linkage of art and project-based learning for young people, ages 7-12. The position requires attendance at instructor labs, reliable transportation and professional development. Mural-making experience is preferred but not required.

Our newest initiative is a deep partnership with Parks and Recreation and provides artistic enhancement to an after school program at a selected recreation center that culminates in a mural. The Lead Teaching Artist and an Assistant Teaching Artist will work for a 10 week session two days a week with young people attending the selected recreation center’s after school program. This 10 week art-based curriculum will inspire and guide students in creating a mural at the recreation center. In addition, teaching artists assist in maintaining classroom documentation and records.

Job Description:

  • Work closely with Art Education staff to develop a project-based curriculum
  • Prepare course material for presentation to groups of varying levels, backgrounds and interests and determine types and amounts of supplies for various types of projects
  • Support administrative correspondence with rec center leaders and onsite event staff
  • Facilitate the mural making process with a group of young people that includes and supports their artistic vision
  • Instruct and supervise youth in after school art activities.
  • Employee will also be responsible for record – keeping
  • Perform related work as required.

Education & Experience:

  • Knowledge of the methods and techniques used in instructing groups of youth or adults
  • Ability to organize, instruct and motivate individuals and groups, and maintain order among recreation and social groups
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships with participants, associates and the general public.

Skills & Requirements:

  • 3-5 years teaching experience;
  • Knowledge of art history and art-making techniques;
  • Ability to manage a classroom of up to 25 students;
  • Significant experience working with under-served youth and/or middle and/or elementary school students;
  • Ability to engage youth with multiple learning styles and varying artistic abilities;
  • Ability to create lesson plans, organize projects, and facilitate class sessions.
  • Excellent classroom management skills;
  • Ability to manage paperwork and ongoing communications between program sites and Mural Arts staff;
  • Willingness to learn the rules and norms of each recreation center as well as the broader philosophy of the parks and recreation department
  • Willingness to work collaboratively and in partnership with, program managers, parks leaders, event planners;
  • Access to reliable transportation;
  • Willing to attain PA Child Abuse Report, PA Criminal Background Check, and FBI Check upon interview:
  • Valid PA Child Abuse Report, PA Criminal Background Check, and FBI Clearances desirable.

Anticipated Commitment & Work Schedule: This employment opportunity is for an eleven week session. After- School hours are generally between the hours of 3:00 and 6:00pm at least two times a week (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu).

Compensation: The hourly rate for this position is $27 for 8 hours of work each week (4 hours in the classroom and 4 hours of prep). There is an additional stipend for mural design and execution. Health benefits are not included.

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to arted.resumes@muralarts.org. For further information on Mural Arts Philadelphia, please visit www.muralarts.org.


Assistant Teaching Artist 

The City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program is seeking an Assistant Teaching Artist for its Art Education department, which serves over 2,000 opportunity youth annually through in and out-of-school programming at 25+ sites across the city.

The ideal candidate will have a background in youth education, strong facilitation and partnership-building skills. They will also be a big picture thinker with an innovative, community-minded artistic practice and demonstrated commitment to the linkage of art and project-based learning for young people, ages 6-13. The position requires attendance at instructor labs, reliable transportation and professional development. Mural-making experience is preferred but not required.

Our newest initiative is a deep partnership with Parks and Recreation and provides artistic enhancement to an after school program at a selected recreation center that culminates in a mural. The Lead Teaching Artist and an Assistant Teaching Artist will work for a 10 week session two days a week with young people attending the selected recreation center’s after school program. This 10 week art-based curriculum will inspire and guide students in creating a mural at the recreation center. In addition, teaching artists assist in maintaining classroom documentation and records.

We are hiring for these artist for the following 10 week sessions:

  • September 2, 2024 – November 8, 2024
  • January 6, 2025 – March 21, 2025
  • February 3, 2025 – April 11, 2025

Job Description:

  • Work closely with Art Education staff and Lead Teaching Artist to implement a project-based curriculum
  • Prepare course material for presentation to groups of varying levels, backgrounds and interests and determine types and amounts of supplies for various types of projects
  • Support correspondence with rec center leaders and onsite event staff
  • Facilitate the mural making process with a group of young people that includes and supports their artistic vision
  • Instruct and supervise youth in after school art activities.
  • Employee will also be responsible for record – keeping
  • Perform related work as required.

Education & Experience:

  • Knowledge of the methods and techniques used in instructing groups of youth or adults
  • Ability to organize, instruct and motivate individuals and groups, and maintain order among recreation and social groups
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships with participants, associates and the general public.

Skills & Requirements:

  • 1-2 years teaching experience;
  • Knowledge of art history and art-making techniques;
  • Ability to support managing a classroom of up to 25 students;
  • Significant experience working with under-served youth and/or middle and/or elementary school students;
  • Ability to engage youth with multiple learning styles and varying artistic abilities;
  • Ability to assist with the creation of lesson plans, organization of projects, and facilitation of class sessions.
  • Excellent classroom management skills;
  • Ability to assist with managing paperwork and ongoing communications between program sites and Mural Arts staff;
  • Willingness to learn the rules and norms of each recreation center as well as the broader philosophy of the parks and recreation department;
  • Willingness to work collaboratively and in partnership with, program managers, parks leaders, event planners;
    Access to reliable transportation;
  • Willing to attain PA Child Abuse Report, PA Criminal Background Check, and FBI Check upon interview;
  • Valid PA Child Abuse Report, PA Criminal Background Check, and FBI Clearances desirable.

Anticipated Commitment & Work Schedule: This employment opportunity is for an eleven week session with potential for rehire. After- School hours are generally between the hours of 3:00 and 6:00pm at least two times a week (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu).

Compensation: The hourly rate for this position is $17 for 8 hours of work each week (4 hours in the classroom and 4 hours of prep). Health benefits are not included.

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to arted.resumes@muralarts.org. For further information on Mural Arts Philadelphia, please visit www.muralarts.org.


Part-Time Events Specialist 

The Mural Arts Communications department seeks a part-time Events Specialist to assist with the development and execution of public-facing programming and special events that underscore Mural Arts’ mission and core values as a social service organization that uses the transformative power of art as a vehicle. Reporting to Mural Arts’ Programmatic and Public Events Manager, the part-time Events Specialist is part of the Communications team to ensure the consistent high quality and success of Mural Arts events.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • On-site Logistical Management:
    • Handle on-site logistical tasks such as setting up and breaking down tables, chairs, and tents.
    • Coordinate with crew members for equipment setup and ensure all necessary materials are present and accounted for.
    • This role requires frequent physical tasks such as moving and setting up objects like tables, chairs, and tents, particularly during high-traffic event seasons. Candidates should be comfortable with extended periods of physical activity.
  • Permits and Approvals:
    • Submit city sound and street closure requests and ensure all necessary event permits are obtained.
  • Event Support and Monitoring:
    • Serve as on-site contact during events (including after work hours and weekends), ensuring the smooth execution of the Run of Show (ROS).
    • Provide additional support as needed, including managing check-ins and addressing any on-site issues that arise.
  • Strategic Event Planning:
    • Coordinate with project managers, departments, and external partners to plan and execute events strategically.
    • Collaborate closely with the Programmatic and Public Events Manager to ensure smooth communication, coordination, and role clarity within the events team.
    • Commit to a minimum of four in-office hours weekly.
    • When possible, participate in calls and site visits to ensure all stakeholders are aware of and involved in the event planning process.
    • The role requires flexibility to manage event-specific duties during busy seasons and address ongoing tasks such as inventory and administrative work during quieter periods.
  • Event Evaluation and Improvement:
    • Develop and implement an evaluation rubric for events to assess effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
    • Suggest strategic improvements to enhance community engagement and the overall event experience.
  • Inventory Management:
    • Track and manage event-related inventory, including tables, chairs, and tents.
    • Upkeep the events closet and maintain a monthly collateral inventory.
    • Coordinate with the crew for equipment pickup and return, ensuring all items are accounted for in weekly check-ins.
  • Branding and Visibility:
    • Ensure Mural Arts Philadelphia (MAP) branding is prominently displayed at all events (e.g., flags, tablecloths, A-frames, banners, tablecloths, signage, and more).
    • Coordinate with the Communications and Marketing Manager to ensure consistent and effective visual representation.
  • Community Engagement:
    • Focus on creating meaningful experiences and community engagement at events.
    • Facilitate on-site interactions, such as media interviews (when MAP’s publicist is not onsite), connections with community members, and opportunities for donations.
  • Vendor and Volunteer Coordination:
    • Plan and facilitate volunteer orientations, ensuring volunteers are well-prepared to represent Mural Arts effectively during events.
    • While managing vendor relationships is less frequent, maintain a list of reliable vendors and coordinate their involvement as needed.
    • Organize and manage volunteer support for events, ensuring sufficient staffing and coordination.

Qualifications:

  • 2+ years of relevant work experience in the area of Event Planning.
  • Exceptional attention to detail.
  • Organized and methodical approach to work.
  • A problem-solver with the ability to think strategically and efficiently when faced with on-site issues.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work collaboratively.
  • Excellent communication skills (oral, written, and listening) and collaboration/team skills.
  • Experience working with outside vendors and contractors.
  • A driver’s license and access to a vehicle are ideal.
  • Ability to lift and carry heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • This position is ideal for individuals who are self-motivated, eager to learn, and able to follow directions with a high level of initiative. A proactive approach to problem-solving and task completion is essential.
  • This position offers opportunities for growth and development, with evolving responsibilities as Mural Arts expands its public programming.

Other position details: 

  • This is a part-time position, up to 20 hours per week
  • The pay rate between $25.00 – $27.00 per hour based on experience
  • Candidates must be available during the week days and some weekends to attend events

To Apply: please send your cover letter and resume to events@muralarts.org with the subject: “Events Specialist Position”

Mural Arts seeks candidates who value and demonstrate the following core competencies: committed problem-solving, deep thinking & fearless creation, inquisitive learning, thoughtful communication, mindful collaboration, personal accountability, and a commitment to actively prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Mural Arts Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Artist Opportunities