Director of Public Art

The City of Aurora is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Director of Public Art in the Community Services Department. We are seeking a visionary arts leader with a deep understanding of community-based practice, a strong record of launching impactful public art initiatives, and the skills to manage complex projects, partnerships, and budgets. The ideal candidate will bring strategic insight, cultural humility, and a commitment to equity to grow Aurora’s reputation as a creative and inclusive city.

Under direction of the Chief Community Service Officer or designee, the Director leads, develops, and manages the city’s public art program. This includes oversight of the City’s existing gallery, curation of exhibitions, public art engagement, stewardship of outdoor murals and sculptures, and expansion of Aurora’s public art infrastructure. The Director plays a critical role in shaping Aurora’s cultural identity by producing public art experiences that reflect the diversity, creativity, and voices of the community.

The duties of this position include but are not limited to: Develop and implement the city’s public art strategy; Lead the creation, programming, and management of a new public gallery; Curate and facilitate exhibitions and programming; Champion community participation in public art by developing accessible, inclusive opportunities for residents to co-create, attend, and lead public art experiences; Cultivate and sustain partnerships with artists, neighborhood organizations, cultural institutions, educators, and residents; Manage all phases of public art projects from concept to completion, including vendor contracts, permitting, compliance, timelines, and evaluation; Oversee fundraising efforts; Create and manage an annual budget; Provide staff support to the Aurora Public Art Commission; Develop and oversee public art education programs; Prepare and deliver reports and presentations; Supervise division staff, contracts, vendors, and service providers; Other duties as assigned.

This position requires a bachelor’s degree in art administration, fine arts, urban planning, cultural studies, or related field; master’s degree preferred. This position also requires a minimum of seven (7) years of progressive experience in public art, arts administration, or cultural programming, including at least three (3) years in a leadership role. Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Must successfully pass pre-hire requirements including but not limited to City Council appointment, physical, drug screen, and background check.

This is a full-time, executive position. The salary range is $73,528.00 - $98,716.80 with starting rate dependent on experience and qualifications, but in most cases is no higher than the midpoint of the range.

Executive Benefits

The City of Aurora offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and eligible part-time employees in accordance with the City’s Executive Pay Plan.

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurances
• Annual pay increases
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF)
• Paid vacations, holidays, floating holidays, personal days, and sick leave
• Gym membership reimbursement
• Interpreters Stipend
• Tuition Reimbursement
• May be eligible for Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Program (if requirements are met)
  
  

Applications should be submitted online. Position will remain open until filled.

To learn more about the City of Aurora, IL, visit https://www.aurora.il.us/Government-and-Engagement/About-Our-City.