Art Exhibit Project Lead

About the Job

The Art Exhibit Project Lead is responsible for all aspects of development and implementation of temporary art exhibits as assigned. The work includes developing working relationships with artists, planning exhibits, installing exhibits and follow up evaluation with artists. Projects are assigned by the Art, Sculpture & Gallery Manager.

Duties

80% Temporary Art Exhibit Project Management

Initiate and sustain working relationships with artists engaged in nature-based art - with a focus on providing a retail outlet for Minnesota/regional artists.

Liaise with Arboretum teams as assigned such as; guest service, marketing and retail, education, public relations.

Plan and implement opening events for temporary art exhibits as assigned

Engage with a diverse array of artists including intentional co-creation with arts communities

Develop and manage expense and revenue budget for temporary art exhibits as assigned

20% Duties as assigned

Additional duties related to art exhibit and sculpture collection may include things such as participating in Arboretum cross functional initiatives, co-creation efforts, AAM accreditation processes, presentations and others.

Qualifications

REQUIRED

BA/BS degree plus at least 10 years of experience, or a master's degree plus at least 8 years of experience, or a terminal degree plus at least 6 years of experience in Art, Art History, or Museum Studies or a related field.

Demonstrated ability to produce clear, professional written and verbal communications

Experience developing and maintaining recordkeeping and organizational processes/structures

Demonstrated ability to develop, manage, and monitor project based budgets, ensuring alignment with financial targets.

Proven ability to collaborate across departments or teams to achieve shared goals, demonstrated by successful completion of multi-stakeholder projects on time and meeting agreed-upon objectives.

PREFERRED

Demonstrates a strong passion for art, plants, science, and education.

Possesses experience with, or familiarity with, museums or other art organizations.

Has experience working with collections management software.

Maintains familiarity with, and established relationships within, local arts communities.

Exhibits demonstrated entrepreneurial initiative and drive.

Possesses familiarity with the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) accreditation process.

About the Department

Arboretum Education Department includes management of art gallery spaces at the Arboretum (indoor and outdoor).

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $30.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nations most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.