Job Bank

Manager of Programs and Community Engagement
Paterson, NJ
Wharton Arts/Paterson Music Project
Full Time
Posted August 21, 2023
The Paterson Music Project (PMP) empowers children to achieve their full potential through the joyful pursuit of musical excellence. Inspired by the global El Sistema movement, PMP uses music education as a vehicle for social change in its home city of Paterson. PMP provides tuition-free musical training to students throughout Paterson after school. Students study a primary instrument and participate in ensemble practice and instrumental sectionals. They attend an ensemble rehearsal, sectional, and private lesson on a weekly basis. Students perform frequently for the community. There are 500 students in the program across the city of Paterson in grades 1-12. Reporting to the Director, the Manager of Programs and Community Engagement is responsible for managing daily PMP program operations

Duties and Responsibilities

Program Development and Leadership
• Contribute to PMP leadership team regarding strategic planning and program policies.
• Contribute to the creation and development of PMP initiatives and events.

Community Relations
• With the PMP Director, develop and implement strategies for community engagement such as community performances, community building events for PMP families and events to support local organizations (food drive, school supply drive, etc.).
• With the PMP Director, represent PMP at meetings and events with local, state-wide and national partners.
• Manage volunteer and intern communications and logistics including, but not limited to, advertising positions, communications, and placement.
• Coordinate student performances at local organizations such as galas, fundraisers, and festivals.

Daily Programming
• Manage on-site operations in conjunction with Director and Program Coordinators including, but not limited to, storage, equipment set up/break down, class schedules and rosters.
• Build relationships with students and families.
• Manage and plan program events and concerts in conjunction with the PMP Director. Attend all PMP events and concerts.

Communication
• Assist the Program Coordinators in managing the student database, student registration, contact information, payments, and scholarship information on Student Management System.
• Assist with communications between PMP and host sites.
• With the support of the Program Coordinators, communicate with parents or guardians about any relevant issues including but not limited to, upcoming events, program updates, via email, letters home, phone calls or verbal communication.

Student Management
• With PMP Director, create and implement program-wide policies to ensure an inclusive, positive, fun, and productive environment for learning and developing community.
• Ensure student safety and wellbeing. Develop relationships with students and provide support to students as needed.
• Manage students in large group and transition settings on site and at events.
• Chaperone daytime and overnight field trips as needed.

Operations Management
• Assist in equipment transport, loading/unloading and set up for concerts and special events at all PMP sites and concert venues.
• Assist with PMP office logistics such as storage management and general organization.

Requirements

Qualifications and Special Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in music, education, and/or arts management.
• At least 1 year of management or supervisory experience preferred.
• Love for working with children. Experience working with children in a group setting and classroom management skills.
• Passion for social justice and equity work. Experience working in an El Sistema Inspired Program or working or living in a low-income or historically marginalized community.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills a must. Ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and staff to create a team-oriented environment.
• Spanish language ability a plus.
• Availability to work some nights and weekends outside of program hours for special events.
• Access to a personal vehicle and valid driver’s license preferred.
• Ability to lift 20lbs.
• Competency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Suite
• Strong writing skills, ability to draft professional emails, letters, announcements, and flyers.

How To Apply

To apply: Please submit cover letter and resume (MS Word or PDF format) to the Paterson Music Project Director, Shanna Lin at Shanna.Lin@whartonarts.org. The position will remain open until filled. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Contact the PMP office for more information: 973 341 7959.