Program Instructor - Visual Arts

Visual Arts & Cultural Programs Instructor

This position is considered a Safety-Sensitive position. Applicants who pass the interview process will be subject to drug and alcohol testing.

The purpose of this class within the organization is to develop and deliver programs in the Community Services Division. The Program Instructor is responsible for assisting, in a leadership role, with programming in the assigned park or facility. Duties may include an area of specialty such as athletics, aquatics, cultural arts, outdoor recreation, historic preservation, senior services, or similar.

Visual Arts & Cultural Programs Instructor - The program instructor is responsible for planning, instructing, and facilitating visual arts programming for participants of all ages and ability levels. This position delivers classroom instruction, outdoor arts experiences, and summer camp programming while supporting gallery operations, public art initiatives, and large-scale community events. The role requires creativity, strong classroom management skills, and the ability to work in both indoor and outdoor environments.

The Program Instructor works under the supervision of the assigned Program Coordinator or Arts Manager and may collaborate with contracted artists, theater staff, marketing personnel, and Parks and Recreation teams.

Essential Functions:

• Must be able to communicate with others in spoken and written English to ensure the safe and efficient operations of the business.
• Interacts with patrons to provide positive customer experience.
• Provides accurate information regarding activities and services.
• Plans, organizes, and instructs specialty programs to serve the community, specific to the goals of assigned area.
• Monitors the assigned facility and participants.
• Keeps the assigned area clean and orderly.
• Makes recommendations for new programs, activities and/or special events.
• Observes and enforces the rules and procedures of the assigned area for the safety and welfare of the staff and participants.
• Operates a computer with facility management software; processes registrations and admissions, balances cash drawer; prepares bank deposits, collects funds, issues receipts, and records transactions.
• Maintains accurate records and reports.
• Maintains and monitors schedules and calendars.
• Renders aid as needed, including administering CPR and using an AED device. Orders supplies and equipment for programs and activities.
• Operates, utilizes, and maintains inventory of audio/visual equipment, program equipment, and supplies in the assigned facility.
• Plans and prepares special events.
• Ability to work a flexible work schedule with some weekend, evening and holiday work required.
• Performs other work as assigned.

Arts Instruction & Program Delivery:

• Plans and instructs visual art classes for children and adults of all ages and abilities.
• Develops engaging lesson plans in a variety of media and techniques appropriate to participant skill levels.
• Plans and facilitates outdoor art activities for large groups in parks and public settings.
• Develops and coordinates the schedule, curriculum, and daily activities for a week-long summer art camp.
• Assists contracted artists with classroom preparation, instruction, and participant engagement.

Public Art & Loominations Support:

• Assists in maintaining and seasonally rotating Murfreesboro Loomination projects to ensure visual quality and safety standards.
• Makes recommendations for interactive public art projects and assists in design, creation, and installation.
• Supports public art initiatives through hands-on fabrication, installation assistance, and participant engagement activities.

Gallery & Theater Support:

• Assists with artwork intake, handling, and basic contract coordination for exhibitions at the Washington Theatre at Patterson Park Gallery.
• Prepares for and monitors gallery receptions, including:
• Cleaning and organizing gallery space.
• Preparing refreshments and reception materials.
• Welcoming and interacting with artists and guests.
• Assists with Washington Theater activities, including ushering during performances, selling merchandise, and facilitating art-related projects for patrons.

Marketing & Administrative Support:

• Communicates accurate and timely programming information to the marketing team for promotional materials and publications.
• Assists with artist communications and basic documentation related to contracts and exhibitions.
• Maintains program records and attendance information as required.

Community Events & Departmental Support:

• Assists with other Parks and Recreation programs and special events, including but not limited to: Miracle League events, Turtle Day, Hummingbird Festival, and TSSAA-related activities.
• Supports the setup, breakdown, and operation of major cultural events, including; Murfreesboro Christmas Parade, Christmas at Patterson, Barfield Bash, Fourth of July Celebration, and Juneteenth Celebration.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities for Visual Arts & Cultural Programs Instructor:

• Knowledge of art techniques, materials, and instructional methods.
• Ability to manage classrooms and large groups effectively.
• Ability to adapt instruction for various age groups and ability levels.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with artists, staff, and community members.
• Ability to multitask and assist with large-scale event operations.

Physical Demands:

• Performs light to medium work that involves walking or standing virtually all the time and also involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis.

Visual Arts and Cultural Programs Instructor Physical & Work Environment:

• Work is performed in classrooms, galleries, theaters, parks, and outdoor event spaces.
• Must be able to work in all weather conditions, including extreme heat or cold, for extended periods.
• Requires prolonged standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying supplies and equipment (up to approximately 40 lbs.).
• Evening and weekend work is required based on programming and event schedules.

Typical Qualifications:

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

• Must be a minimum of sixteen (16) years of age. High school diploma or GED preferred but not required.

Visual Arts & Cultural Programs Instructor Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Visual Arts, Art Education, Recreation, or related field preferred; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience teaching or facilitating art programs for diverse age groups.
• Experience working in outdoor programming or event settings preferred.

Special Certifications and Licenses:

• Must possess a driver's license valid in the State of Tennessee.
• Must possess current CPR/AED certifications or the ability to obtain same within six (6) months from date of hire. Failure to obtain the CPR/AED certifications within six (6) months will result in termination.

The City of Murfreesboro is an Equal Opportunity Employer.