Programs & Design Coordinator

About WaterFire Providence

WaterFire Providence is an award-winning arts nonprofit known for its large-scale public art events and dynamic programming at the WaterFire Arts Center. We use art as a catalyst for community building, economic development, and creative expression.

Reports to: Laura Duclos, Director of Arts Programming & Communications

Job SummaryCombines hands-on graphic design and production with the coordination and development of WaterFire Providence’s arts education and workforce development programs. This role balances creative production with significant responsibility for mentoring young people, supporting artists, and coordinating year-long, relationship-centered programs. Requires exceptional organization, attention to detail, consistent follow-through, and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Design and produce print and digital materials, including event signage, exhibition graphics, promotional materials, and social media content.
• Prepare production-ready files and coordinate print production, including specifications, materials, finishes, and vendor communications.
• Lead ArtLab@WaterFire and WaterFire Accelerate from planning through implementation, overseeing participant communications, mentorship, meetings, workshops, professional development, scheduling, logistics, and ongoing program development.
• ArtLab@WaterFire: a year-long fellowship for high school teens combining paid work experience, mentorship, and educational and professional development.
• WaterFire Accelerate: a year-long artist development program for artists approximately ages 23–30, including monthly meetings, professional development, and opportunities to exhibit and share their work.
• Support ArtCamp ArtCamp planning and implementation in collaboration with the Camp Director, who oversees day-to-day camp operations.
• Maintain program schedules, meeting notes, task trackers, participant records, and project documentation.
• Track program participation, goals, outcomes, and feedback to support evaluations, grant reporting, and impact measurement.
• Manage project timelines, communications, logistics, and follow-up across multiple concurrent projects.
• Collaborate with staff, artists, vendors, and community partners to ensure high-quality, inclusive experiences and consistent brand alignment.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications

• Experience in graphic design, arts education, program coordination, youth development, or a combination of these fields.
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, note-taking, documentation, and follow-through.
• Strong project management, communication, and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop.
• Knowledge of print production, file preparation, and signage specifications, including materials and finishes.
• Ability to build supportive relationships with young people and artists and provide consistent, thoughtful mentorship.
• Experience working with diverse communities, particularly BIPOC youth, and a commitment to inclusive learning environments.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends for participant meetings, workshops, and events.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred; bilingual (Spanish) candidates encouraged to apply.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $42,000–$50,000, commensurate with experience
• Health and dental insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement savings options (opt-in)
• Opportunities for professional growth and creative impact

To Apply

Please submit your resume, a brief cover letter, and a link to a portfolio or relevant design samples via Indeed. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

WaterFire Providence is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and strongly encourage candidates from historically underrepresented communities to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $42,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Graphic design: 3 years (Preferred)
• Content creation: 3 years (Preferred)
• Camp: 1 year (Preferred)

Language:

• Spanish (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Providence, RI 02908 (Required)

Work Location: In person