Program Assistant

Community Access to the Arts

Job Description

Description: 
We are seeking a motivated, organized person ready to make a difference at our innovative arts organization. The CATA Program Assistant applies their talents to support our dynamic mission of art and inclusion. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, has a can-do attitude and a strong interest in the arts and CATA's mission, and can balance multiple projects while supporting day-to-day tasks of the program team. This position reports to the Program Associate and Program Director. 
 
Key Responsibilities: 
  • Support day-to-day needs of high-quality studio arts workshops provided to artists with disabilities across a number of art forms and genres in the visual and performing arts
  • Help faculty with set-up and clean-up for workshops (organizing tables and chairs, setting up audio-visual equipment, printing and distributing materials)
  • Support CATA artists during workshops by answering questions, providing one-on-one assistance, and helping them experiment with materials and techniques
  • Welcome CATA artists into the facility, creating an inclusive, nurturing environment and supporting Covid safety protocols by helping artists and caregivers check-in.
  • Take photos to document workshops and upload to Flickr, tagging and adding notes
  • Monitor virtual Zoom workshops, providing tech support to artists and faculty as needed
  • Help prepare art exhibits for museums, galleries, and community spaces: Photograph artwork, collect and organize supplies for installations, help frame artwork and prepare it for transport, collect information for exhibit pricelists and exhibit materials
  • Maintain art supply organization and inventory
  • Regularly check and maintain art studios and framing studio, cleaning and tidying counters, tables, and chairs so the studio is neat and ready for the next workshop.  
  • Help prepare program-related mailings and packets
  • Communicate daily with program staff in person and by email regarding ongoing projects as well as any questions or concerns that arise throughout the day. 
  • Other duties as assigned, including modest schlepping. 
 
Qualifications: 
  • Interest in the arts, disability, and/or related fields, with a basic understanding of art materials and techniques 
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and a welcoming presence
  • Strong work ethic with curiosity and eagerness to learn
  • Ability to work collaboratively, follow guidelines and instructions, meet deadlines, and communicate clearly and effectively about challenges and opportunities you are encountering in your day-to-day work. 
  • Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail 
  • Ability to juggle multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and shift direction when needed.
  • Excellent computer skills, with preference for candidates proficient in MS Word, Excel, Google Suite, Gmail, and Zoom. 
  • Ability to successfully engage with people who are diverse by race, class, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, neurodivergence, and ability; exercise cultural competence and inclusion; and commit to deeper learning and professional development in areas including racial and social justice and disability rights. 
  • Must have reliable transportation to Great Barrington, MA. Local travel is required on occasion, to deliver art supplies to CATA partners and attend CATA events.
 
Personal Characteristics 
You are professional, creative, and resourceful, can work independently and as a team player. 
You are a positive, outgoing person with effective relationship-building skills. You recognize the importance of engaging diverse communities and you know how to create a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment when you interact with people. 
You have the ability to solve practical problems, establish priorities, and accomplish tasks in order of importance, and you’re comfortable receiving feedback on your work. 
You are flexible, can adapt easily to a fast-moving environment, and are at ease working with tight deadlines. Your friends and colleagues think of you as not easily rattled. 
You have a solid work ethic with proven reliability and dependability, and you demonstrate thoughtfulness, sound judgment and discretion in regard to sensitive matters and confidential information.

Schedule, Compensation & Benefits 
This is a full-time non-exempt position with a salary in the range of $35,000 - $40,000 and excellent, comprehensive benefits including:
 
  • 100% employer-paid health & dental insurance premiums for employees (retroactively effective to hire date)
  • Family health and dental packages
  • Retirement savings program of Simple IRA plan with 3% employer match
  • Generous paid vacation (80 hours in first year increasing to 120 hours after second year) plus separate sick time
  • Paid holidays including all federal holidays plus days before and after Thanksgiving; three extra December days, two floating religious holidays, and birthday holiday
  • Short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Paid family leave
  • Paid professional development opportunities
  • CATA is a qualified employer under the PSLF federal student loan forgiveness plan
  • Active participation in a mission driven organization with a positive and inclusive work culture and a strong impact on the community.
 
How To Apply:
CATA is an equal opportunity employer with a mission rooted in equity and inclusion. We strongly encourage candidates who contribute to the diversity of our organization. 
 
Non-local candidates must include plans and timeline for relocation to Berkshire County in cover letter.
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Please email resume and cover letter explaining why you’re interested in this position and how your past experience and accomplishments make you qualified for it. Cover letters will be read as writing samples. Send to: 
Hiring Manager
jobs@CATAarts.org