Job Description

EPACENTER

Job Description

Associate Director of Programs

Organizational Overview

EPACENTER is a vibrant hub for creativity and cultural engagement headquartered in East Palo Alto that is dedicated to inspiring imagination and activating the creative potential of all who seek greater access to artistic opportunities in San Mateo County. EPACENTER unites individuals of every age through artistic expression, supports career pathways in creative fields, and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of our community.

EPACENTER is expanding to present a dynamic range of public programs, including captivating live performances, thought-provoking exhibitions and installations, stimulating talks, curated film screenings, and spirited community events. Our comprehensive array of classes in digital, visual, culinary, and performing arts offers abundant opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and the discovery of lifelong passions and hidden talents. Additionally, our fellowship programs open doors to rewarding, high-wage careers within the creative industries.

Designed as an inviting and accessible 25,000-square-foot space, EPACENTER is a welcoming gathering spot where people of all abilities explore their talents, engage with inspiring ideas, and flourish creatively. Through these offerings, EPACENTER enriches lives, builds meaningful community connections, and amplifies the artistic potential within everyone.

Position Overview:

The Associate Director of Programs manages EPACENTER’s multigenerational programming in the arts. Reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with the organization’s Curator, this role is responsible for implementing and managing a broad portfolio of programs for all ages, including tuition free arts education classes for children and teens, paid fellowships and career training for young adults, daytime creative opportunities for adults and seniors, and public programs such as concerts, exhibitions, lectures, film screenings, and community events for the general public. The Associate Director of Programs also oversees the use of EPACENTER’s facility by other arts and cultural institutions in residence that independently offer programming for the community. This position requires a strong background in program development and execution within an arts and cultural center, a collaborative spirit, and the ability to balance artistic excellence with operational acumen.

KEY ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Development & Execution

• Oversees the implementation of all educational, training, and public programs at EPACENTER, ensuring alignment with organizational strategy and community needs
• Works closely with the Curator to bring creative ideas to life through well-executed, logistically sound programs that reflect EPACENTER’s mission
• Coordinates with staff, teaching artists, and consultants to ensure the smooth delivery of classes, events, and fellowships
• Supports the development of annual program calendars and manages the integration of internal and external programs within EPACENTER’s facility

Facility Coordination & External Program Management

• Manages the logistical and operational interface between EPACENTER and external arts and cultural organizations that utilize the facility to deliver their own programming
• Oversees the maintenance, functionality, scheduling, and space usage of program delivery facilities, issues agreements, and coordinates usage of shared resources with the Operations team
• Oversees organizational partnerships and ensures that the use of space by external entities aligns with EPACENTER’s safety policies, calendar priorities, and mission
• Maintains clear communication with all stakeholders and resolves any conflicts in scheduling or operations

Team Leadership & Staff Supervision

• Supervises a cross-functional team that may include program administration staff, teaching artists, fellows, administrative staff, and part-time contractors
• Builds strong internal workflows, supports staff development, and promotes a culture of collaboration, creativity, and accountability
• Recruits and manages a diverse network of creative professionals and vendors, ensuring high-quality instruction and public engagement

Budgeting & Financial Oversight

• Prepares and manages annual program budgets
• Monitors expenditures and ensures the cost-effectiveness of all program activities
• Works in coordination with the Executive Director and Finance Department to track grant-related expenses and support reporting needs
• Contributes to revenue-generation efforts through programmatic offerings such as ticketed events, as well as facility rentals and merchandising

Evaluation, Outreach & Representation

• Implements systems for evaluating program quality and impact, analyzing participant engagement, and informing future program development
• Works closely with the Communications and Development teams to provide program content for marketing, donor reporting, and public relations
• Represents EPACENTER at community meetings, conferences, and convenings
• Cultivates relationships with families, public agencies, schools, and arts and cultural organizations

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 8+ years of demonstrated program management experience at an arts center, museum, or cultural nonprofit serving historically under-resourced communities
• Prior experience designing, launching, and managing high-quality arts or cultural programs for youth, adults, and multigenerational audiences
• Minimum of 5+ years in a supervisory role at an arts and cultural institution, with a track record of managing staff and cross-functional teams
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills with a proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Experience coordinating the operations of a shared facility or multi-use cultural space
• Budget management experience, including experience with grant-supported programming and compliance
• Demonstrated cultural competency and experience working in historically under-resourced communities
• Ability to work evenings and weekends, as required by programming

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Office-based; frequent evening/weekend hours for events
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and use standard office equipment.

DISCLOSURES

EPACENTER is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by EPACENTER’s nondiscrimination policy.

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