Public Art Administrator (Coordinator III - CPPW)
Apply NowCompany: City of Portland, OR
Location: Portland, OR 97229
Description:
Salary: $97,510.40 - $123,392.80 Annually
Location : 1120 SW 5th Ave, OR
Job Type: Regular
Job Number: 2025-00250
Bureau: Vibrant Communities Service Area
Opening Date: 02/24/2025
Closing Date: 3/17/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
The Position
Job Appointment: Full-Time
Typical Schedule: Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm, alternate schedule may be available after probation.
Work Location: Hybrid - The Portland Building, 1120 SW 5th Avenue, Portland, OR 97204. Remote work must be performed within Oregon or Washington. For more information, The current schedule for this position is hybrid. Employees are expected work on site 50% of the time. The City is reevaluating a return-to-office (RTO) policy which could change in-person requirements with notice. The hiring manager for this position will have more up to date information at the time of all verbal/contingent offers.
Benefit: Please check our benefits tab for an overview of benefits for this position
Union Representation: City of Portland Professional Workers, CPPW. This labor contract is currently in negotiations. To view other labor agreement, please click
Application Material: Please click APPLY to submit your application via the City of Portland's online portal. You will need to respond to the supplemental questions and attach a resume.
Position Summary:
Portland is a city shaped by its creativity-where public art transforms streets into stories, bridges history with the present, and fosters a sense of belonging in every neighborhood. The City of Portland's Office of Arts & Culture seeks a visionary Public Art Administrator to guide the evolution and refinement of Portland's public art programs.
This role is not just about managing what already exists-it's about imagining what's next. The Administrator will oversee the City's public art collection, Percent for Art program, coordination with contractors, and public engagement initiatives, ensuring that public art reflects Portland's diversity, enriches civic spaces, and strengthens cultural vitality.
The Office of Arts & Culture is committed to supporting public art in all its diverse forms-from monumental sculptures in parks to original paintings that line the walls of City Hall. Public art serves as a platform for storytelling, civic dialogue, and creative expression, helping to shape Portland's evolving cultural landscape. The Public Art Administrator will play a key role in strategic initiatives, including the Portland Monuments Project, stewarding and expanding the City's public art collection, and ensuring that new installations reflect and honor the diversity of Portland's communities.
Portland's Commitment to Public Art
Under Portland City Code, 2% of eligible City infrastructure project costs are dedicated to public art. These funds commission, purchase, and maintain artworks across the city, support artist-in-residence programs, and help develop creative spaces. Since the 1980s, more than 1,700 works of art have been added to the collection and showcased across neighborhoods, parks, and public buildings. Today, the program emphasizes acquiring work from underrepresented artists and bringing art to historically underserved communities.
As the Public Art Administrator, you will not only oversee the conservation and expansion of this collection, but also shape the future of public art in Portland. Working across city bureaus, with community partners, contractors and directly with artists, this position offers a unique opportunity to develop policies, launch new initiatives, and ensure that public art remains a central and accessible part of Portland's identity.
As the Public Art Administrator, you will:
This role is ideal for someone who sees public art not just as a decorative element, but as a catalyst for civic engagement, equity, and storytelling.
Who we're looking for:
The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, creative leader, and effective project manager with a passion for public art, cultural policy, and civic engagement. We are looking for someone who:
About the Office of Arts & Culture:
The Office of Arts & Culture puts creativity at the heart of public life, ensuring that arts and culture thrive in every corner of Portland. Through the Arts Access Fund, General Fund, and Percent for Art Fund, we invest in arts education, cultural planning, public art, performing arts venues, and direct support for artists and nonprofit arts organizations. We steward Portland'5 Centers for the Arts, one of the largest performing arts complexes in the region, providing world-class spaces for artists and audiences to connect. From murals to live performances, we activate public spaces, celebrate Portland's artistic talent, support a creative economy and expand access to the arts for all.
Virtual Zoom Meet & Greet Opportunity
Come meet the hiring manager and the senior recruiter! We'll be talking about the position duties and responsibilities, day to day life in the role, review the announcement, discuss how to apply, and answer questions you may have about the position.
March 3, 2025
12:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 840 7054 1003
*Please note: AI Notetaking apps will not be allowed into virtual sessions hosted by the Bureau of Human Resources Recruitment Team. If you need accommodations as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, then please contact the Recruiter or Program Lead for assistance.
Have a question?
Contact Information:
TroyLynn Craft
Senior Recruiter
To Qualify
The following minimum qualifications are required for this position:Experience managing public art programs, arts organizations, or large-scale cultural initiatives. Knowledge of public art policies, conservation practices, and installation processes. Experience in project management, particularly with government, nonprofit, or community-based projects. Experience managing budgets and contracts effectively. Ability to build and sustain relationships with artists, community groups, and government agencies. Ability to develop policies, lead public meetings, present to city leadership and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Although not required you may have:
The Recruitment Process
STEP 1: Apply online between February 24 - March 17, 2025
Step 6: Start Date:
Additional Information
Click here for additional information regarding the following:
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer
A Career with the City of Portland offers many Employee Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to
Benefits may vary depending on bargaining unit and employment status.
01
Thank you for your interest in joining the team at the City of Portland. We sincerely value your time and hope to make your application experience as positive as possible.
The following supplemental questions are an important step to assist us in determining if you have the minimum qualifications to succeed in the posted vacancy.
Write specific and unique responses to each question. Answering "No", to any of the Yes/No questions or answering an essay questions with the following "See resume", or entering "N/A" for any of the minimum qualifications listed in the "To Qualify" section may eliminate you from further consideration.
Note: If you are requesting veterans' preference, please be sure upload a copy of your DD214 and/or Veteran's administration letter stating your disability. Veteran's preference documentation must be submitted by the closing time of this announcement.
Have you read and understood all the information listed above?
02
Where did you first learn about this job opportunity? (If on a website or job board, please specify which one)
03
The City of Portland receives public records requests at times. Please indicate which response you find appropriate:(Answer will not disqualify you from the process)
04
Do you have Experience managing public art programs, arts organizations, or large-scale cultural initiatives?
05
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Experience managing public art programs, arts organizations, or large-scale cultural initiatives.
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
06
Do you have Knowledge of public art policies, conservation practices, and installation processes?
07
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Knowledge of public art policies, conservation practices, and installation processes.
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
08
Do you have Experience in project management, particularly with government, nonprofit, or community-based projects?
09
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Experience in project management, particularly with government, nonprofit, or community-based projects.
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
10
Do you have Experience managing budgets and contracts effectively?
11
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Experience managing budgets and contracts effectively.
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
12
Do you have the Ability to build and sustain relationships with artists, community groups, and government agencies?
13
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Ability to build and sustain relationships with artists, community groups, and government agencies.
In your response, include details that clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
14
Do you have the Ability to develop policies, lead public meetings, present to city leadership and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing?
15
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Ability to develop policies, lead public meetings, present to city leadership and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
Required Question
Location : 1120 SW 5th Ave, OR
Job Type: Regular
Job Number: 2025-00250
Bureau: Vibrant Communities Service Area
Opening Date: 02/24/2025
Closing Date: 3/17/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
The Position
Job Appointment: Full-Time
Typical Schedule: Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm, alternate schedule may be available after probation.
Work Location: Hybrid - The Portland Building, 1120 SW 5th Avenue, Portland, OR 97204. Remote work must be performed within Oregon or Washington. For more information, The current schedule for this position is hybrid. Employees are expected work on site 50% of the time. The City is reevaluating a return-to-office (RTO) policy which could change in-person requirements with notice. The hiring manager for this position will have more up to date information at the time of all verbal/contingent offers.
Benefit: Please check our benefits tab for an overview of benefits for this position
Union Representation: City of Portland Professional Workers, CPPW. This labor contract is currently in negotiations. To view other labor agreement, please click
Application Material: Please click APPLY to submit your application via the City of Portland's online portal. You will need to respond to the supplemental questions and attach a resume.
Position Summary:
Portland is a city shaped by its creativity-where public art transforms streets into stories, bridges history with the present, and fosters a sense of belonging in every neighborhood. The City of Portland's Office of Arts & Culture seeks a visionary Public Art Administrator to guide the evolution and refinement of Portland's public art programs.
This role is not just about managing what already exists-it's about imagining what's next. The Administrator will oversee the City's public art collection, Percent for Art program, coordination with contractors, and public engagement initiatives, ensuring that public art reflects Portland's diversity, enriches civic spaces, and strengthens cultural vitality.
The Office of Arts & Culture is committed to supporting public art in all its diverse forms-from monumental sculptures in parks to original paintings that line the walls of City Hall. Public art serves as a platform for storytelling, civic dialogue, and creative expression, helping to shape Portland's evolving cultural landscape. The Public Art Administrator will play a key role in strategic initiatives, including the Portland Monuments Project, stewarding and expanding the City's public art collection, and ensuring that new installations reflect and honor the diversity of Portland's communities.
Portland's Commitment to Public Art
Under Portland City Code, 2% of eligible City infrastructure project costs are dedicated to public art. These funds commission, purchase, and maintain artworks across the city, support artist-in-residence programs, and help develop creative spaces. Since the 1980s, more than 1,700 works of art have been added to the collection and showcased across neighborhoods, parks, and public buildings. Today, the program emphasizes acquiring work from underrepresented artists and bringing art to historically underserved communities.
As the Public Art Administrator, you will not only oversee the conservation and expansion of this collection, but also shape the future of public art in Portland. Working across city bureaus, with community partners, contractors and directly with artists, this position offers a unique opportunity to develop policies, launch new initiatives, and ensure that public art remains a central and accessible part of Portland's identity.
As the Public Art Administrator, you will:
- Coordinate Portland's Public Art Program, developing policies, initiatives, and partnerships that grow the City's artistic presence.
- Oversee the management, conservation, and promotion of the City's public art collection, ensuring it remains relevant, well-maintained, and accessible.
- Guide and refine the Percent for Art Program, working with contractors including the Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC) and Capital Project Managers across city bureaus.
- Champion new strategic public art initiatives, exploring innovative ways to activate civic spaces through placemaking, engage communities, and support emerging artists.
- Develop community engagement strategies, ensuring that Portlanders-particularly historically underrepresented communities-have a voice in shaping the city's public art landscape.
- Cultivate strong relationships with local artists, arts organizations, and neighborhood leaders, fostering an ecosystem where public art thrives.
- Work collaboratively with city leadership and external partners on high-profile initiatives such as the Portland Monuments Project, helping to redefine cultural storytelling in public spaces.
- Promote public art education, awareness, and appreciation through public programs including temporary installations and workshops.
This role is ideal for someone who sees public art not just as a decorative element, but as a catalyst for civic engagement, equity, and storytelling.
Who we're looking for:
The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, creative leader, and effective project manager with a passion for public art, cultural policy, and civic engagement. We are looking for someone who:
- Has a deep understanding of public art administration, including policy development, project management, and curation.
- Can envision and implement new programs, pushing the boundaries of what public art can be in a rapidly changing urban environment.
- Understands the intersection of art and urban planning, ensuring that public art is integrated meaningfully into the city's infrastructure and landscape.
- Values collaboration, building strong relationships with artists, community groups, contractors and city stakeholders.
- Is deeply committed to racial equity and cultural representation in public art, advocating for historically marginalized communities.
- Has experience managing budgets, grants, and fundraising efforts in order to support and expand public art initiatives.
- Is an excellent communicator, capable of articulating the importance of public art to a wide range of audiences.
- Has strong problem-solving and negotiation skills, particularly in working with contractors, developers, and government agencies.
About the Office of Arts & Culture:
The Office of Arts & Culture puts creativity at the heart of public life, ensuring that arts and culture thrive in every corner of Portland. Through the Arts Access Fund, General Fund, and Percent for Art Fund, we invest in arts education, cultural planning, public art, performing arts venues, and direct support for artists and nonprofit arts organizations. We steward Portland'5 Centers for the Arts, one of the largest performing arts complexes in the region, providing world-class spaces for artists and audiences to connect. From murals to live performances, we activate public spaces, celebrate Portland's artistic talent, support a creative economy and expand access to the arts for all.
Virtual Zoom Meet & Greet Opportunity
Come meet the hiring manager and the senior recruiter! We'll be talking about the position duties and responsibilities, day to day life in the role, review the announcement, discuss how to apply, and answer questions you may have about the position.
March 3, 2025
12:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 840 7054 1003
*Please note: AI Notetaking apps will not be allowed into virtual sessions hosted by the Bureau of Human Resources Recruitment Team. If you need accommodations as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, then please contact the Recruiter or Program Lead for assistance.
Have a question?
Contact Information:
TroyLynn Craft
Senior Recruiter
To Qualify
The following minimum qualifications are required for this position:
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Fine Arts, Art History, Architecture, Urban Planning, Arts Administration, or a related field.
- 3-5 years of experience in arts administration, creative placemaking, or public space activation.
- Familiarity with public art conservation, permitting, and ADA compliance.
- Experience as a practicing artist, curator, or cultural producer.
The Recruitment Process
STEP 1: Apply online between February 24 - March 17, 2025
- Required Application Materials: Resume
- Answer to the Supplemental Questions (click on the Questions tab to preview the questions)
- If you would like to request Veteran's Preference, please submit your Veteran documents (ex, DD214-Member 4, VA Benefit Letter, etc.) by the closing date of the recruitment.
- Your responses to the supplemental questions should include details describing your education, training and/or experience, and where obtained, which clearly reflects your qualifications for each of the numbered items in the "To Qualify" section of this announcement.
- Your rsum should support the details described in your responses to the supplemental questions.
- How We Determine Pay: The City of Portland is covered by the . Your salary is determined based on the experience listed in your resume that is directly related and equivalent to the position for which you are applying. It is strongly encouraged to include any transferable experience (paid or unpaid regardless of how recent) to ensure your offer is reflective of all your relevant experience.
- Do not attach any additional documents.
- Please note, all completed applications for this position must be submitted no later than on the closing date and time of this recruitment.
- You may use AI tools to assist with your job application, but please be sure to personalize your responses to supplemental questions. Avoid copying and pasting. We encourage using AI to generate ideas and then tailor them to reflect your own experiences and skills.
- All applications must be submitted via the City's online application process.
- E-mailed and/or faxed applications will not be accepted.
- An evaluation of each applicant's training and paid and unpaid experience, as demonstrated in their resume and supplemental questions, weighted 100%.
- Your rsum and responses to the supplemental questions will be the basis for our evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Incomplete or inappropriate information may result in disqualification.
- You have 14 days from the notice of the minimum qualification evaluation results to let us know if you would like to review and discuss your evaluation result. Please read the City of Portland for complete information.
- Additional evaluation may be required prior to establishment of the eligible list and/or final selection.
- Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be placed on the equally ranked eligible list.
- Hiring bureau will review and select candidates for an interview.
Step 6: Start Date:
- A start date will be determined after all conditions of employment have been met.
Additional Information
Click here for additional information regarding the following:
- City of Portland Core Values
- Recruitment Process - Work Status
- Equal Employment Opportunity
- Veteran Preference
- ADA, Pregnancy, and Religious Accommodations
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer
A Career with the City of Portland offers many Employee Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to
- Health Care (Medical, Vision and Dental)
- Carrot Fertility
- Wellness Benefits
- Life Insurance
- Long-term disability coverage to eligible employees and their families.
- Employee Assistance Plan
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Retirement
- Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), including contributions to the PERS IAP plan paid by employer
- Family Medical Leave
- City Paid Parental Leave
Benefits may vary depending on bargaining unit and employment status.
01
Thank you for your interest in joining the team at the City of Portland. We sincerely value your time and hope to make your application experience as positive as possible.
The following supplemental questions are an important step to assist us in determining if you have the minimum qualifications to succeed in the posted vacancy.
Write specific and unique responses to each question. Answering "No", to any of the Yes/No questions or answering an essay questions with the following "See resume", or entering "N/A" for any of the minimum qualifications listed in the "To Qualify" section may eliminate you from further consideration.
Note: If you are requesting veterans' preference, please be sure upload a copy of your DD214 and/or Veteran's administration letter stating your disability. Veteran's preference documentation must be submitted by the closing time of this announcement.
Have you read and understood all the information listed above?
- Yes
- No - If you have any questions, please contact the recruiter on the announcement.
02
Where did you first learn about this job opportunity? (If on a website or job board, please specify which one)
03
The City of Portland receives public records requests at times. Please indicate which response you find appropriate:(Answer will not disqualify you from the process)
- My application was submitted with the understanding that the City of Portland would keep the information confidential and would only disclose the information if ordered to do so. I would not have submitted this application without the promise of confidentiality.
- You may release my application; I am waiving confidentiality.
04
Do you have Experience managing public art programs, arts organizations, or large-scale cultural initiatives?
- Yes
- No
05
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Experience managing public art programs, arts organizations, or large-scale cultural initiatives.
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
- Examples of when you used the knowledge skill or ability.
- Role you served in (professional, internship, volunteer).
- Skills, training, transferable skills or lived experience you have that will help you in this area.
- Total years of experience applying the knowledge, skill, or ability.
06
Do you have Knowledge of public art policies, conservation practices, and installation processes?
- Yes
- No
07
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Knowledge of public art policies, conservation practices, and installation processes.
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
- Examples of when you used the knowledge skill or ability.
- Role you served in (professional, internship, volunteer).
- Skills, training, transferable skills or lived experience you have that will help you in this area.
- Total years of experience applying the knowledge, skill, or ability.
08
Do you have Experience in project management, particularly with government, nonprofit, or community-based projects?
- Yes
- No
09
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Experience in project management, particularly with government, nonprofit, or community-based projects.
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
- Examples of when you used the knowledge skill or ability.
- Role you served in (professional, internship, volunteer).
- Skills, training, transferable skills or lived experience you have that will help you in this area.
- Total years of experience applying the knowledge, skill, or ability.
10
Do you have Experience managing budgets and contracts effectively?
- Yes
- No
11
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Experience managing budgets and contracts effectively.
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
- Examples of when you used the knowledge skill or ability.
- Role you served in (professional, internship, volunteer).
- Skills, training, transferable skills or lived experience you have that will help you in this area.
- Total years of experience applying the knowledge, skill, or ability.
12
Do you have the Ability to build and sustain relationships with artists, community groups, and government agencies?
- Yes
- No
13
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Ability to build and sustain relationships with artists, community groups, and government agencies.
In your response, include details that clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
- Examples of when you used the knowledge skill or ability.
- Role you served in (professional, internship, volunteer).
- The impact and/or results of your of experience.
- Skills, training, transferable skills or lived experience you have that will help you in this area.
- Total years of experience applying the knowledge, skill, or ability.
14
Do you have the Ability to develop policies, lead public meetings, present to city leadership and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing?
- Yes
- No
15
Provide a detailed example(s) of your Ability to develop policies, lead public meetings, present to city leadership and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
In your response, include details which clearly reflect how you meet this minimum qualification. Such as:
- Examples of when you used the knowledge skill or ability.
- Role you served in (professional, internship, volunteer).
- Skills, training, transferable skills or lived experience you have that will help you in this area.
- Total years of experience applying the knowledge, skill, or ability.
Required Question