PROGRAM COORDINATOR JOB DESCRIPTION

10 HOURS PER WEEK THROUGH APRIL 2027

Application open 1/8/2026; deadline to apply is 1/31/2026

Overview

The Program Coordinator ensures the planning, implementation, and overall success of MARNMentors, the Milwaukee Artist Resource Network’s longest-running program. MARNMentors supports MARN’s mission of strengthening Milwaukee’s arts community by empowering artists from all backgrounds with resources, connections, and professional development to build sustainable careers.

Through this year-long mentorship program, a diverse cohort of emerging artists (mentees) is paired with established artists (mentors). Together, they focus on developing mentees’ artistic practice, professional and business skills, and networks. The goal of MARNMentors is to give artists an unparalleled opportunity to set a successful course for their artistic careers while fostering artistic growth, economic viability for creatives, and enriching Milwaukee’s cultural landscape through mentorship, exhibitions, and advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities

Program Development

Plan and deliver the overall program in accordance with the established timeline, program elements, and objectives. Responsibilities include:

  • Providing emerging artists with a unique opportunity to learn all aspects of creating a sustainable career as an artist.

  • Supporting mentees’ growth as professional artists.

  • Showcasing the diverse artwork of program participants through a final exhibition and producing an exhibition catalogue for mentors, mentees, guests, and potential inclusion in research libraries nationally.

  • Ensuring program deliverables, including:

    • Monthly mentor/mentee one-on-one meetings

    • Peer support opportunities

    • Professional development workshops and activities

    • Cohort visits to local museums and galleries

    • A final exhibition of mentor and mentee work

    • Creation, marketing, and distribution of an exhibition catalogue

  • Incorporating both informal and formal feedback tools to ensure participant voices are heard and that the program remains flexible and responsive.

  • Developing an evaluation framework to measure progress toward program outcomes, assess strengths, and identify areas for improvement.

Program Implementation

  • Work with the MARN supervisor to recruit and select a cohort of 10 diverse and well-qualified mentors.

  • Manage the mentee application process and selection.

  • Collaborate with the mentor cohort to select a diverse group of 10 motivated mentees.

  • Orient mentors to ensure clear expectations and shared understanding of program goals.

  • Engage program participants, partners, and volunteers throughout the program year.

  • Manage and communicate budget needs to the MARN supervisor and ensure the program operates within budget.

  • Communicate effectively with mentors, mentees, and partners to support strong participation and engagement.

  • Plan and coordinate the final exhibition and exhibition catalogue.

  • Adhere to the program timeline to ensure all activities are completed by the end of March 2027.

Program Wrap-Up and Evaluation

  • Survey mentors and mentees at program completion.

  • Conduct exit interviews with mentors and mentees.

  • Survey exhibition attendees.

  • Summarize evaluation findings, including mid-point surveys and ongoing feedback.

  • Incorporate program strengths and areas for improvement into a final program report.

  • Ensure a strong and positive program closure with participants and partners.

Preferred Qualifications, Skills, and Interests

MARN understands that applicants may not meet 100% of the qualifications listed below. Our goal is to clearly communicate expectations and identify candidates with the skills necessary to support a successful program.

  • Experience as an artist, curator, or in a related field.

  • Knowledge of the Milwaukee-area arts community.

  • Strong project planning, implementation, and evaluation/analysis skills.

  • Ability to problem-solve and generate ideas in a diverse, collaborative environment.

  • Comfort using Google Suite tools.

  • Must live in the Greater Milwaukee area and have access to reliable transportation to attend program trainings, meetings, and field trips.

Organizational Expectations

  • Embrace and adhere to MARN’s mission, vision, and values, as well as all operating models, policies, procedures, and guiding principles.

  • Manage confidential information with discretion.

  • Understand that MARN is a nonprofit organization serving the Greater Milwaukee creative community, and that all MARN team members represent the organization.

Working Conditions

  • Must have access to a reliable computer.

  • This position includes remote work as well as in-person responsibilities, including mentor/mentee trainings, gatherings, and field trips with program participants.

Time and Compensation

  • Ten (10) hours per week at $25/hour.

  • Some weeks may require additional flexibility around program events, with hours balanced across the program timeline.

Benefits:

  • Free MARN Creative Membership for one year.


To apply, send your resume and a cover letter with details on your experience to Terry Murphy, Director of Operations at operations@marnarts.org.

Applications will be accepted until January 31, 2026.