Current Opportunities

A Love Letter for You by Steve Powers. Photo by Adam Wallacavage.

About Us 

Mural Arts Philadelphia is the nation’s largest public art program, dedicated to the belief that art ignites change. For over 35 years, Mural Arts has united artists and communities through a collaborative process rooted in the traditions of mural-making to create art that transforms public spaces and individual lives. Mural Arts Philadelphia exists to provide transformative experiences, progressive discourse, and economic stimulus to the City of Philadelphia.

Our mission: Through participatory public art, Mural Arts Philadelphia inspires change in people, place, and practice, creating opportunities for a more just and equitable Philadelphia.

DEIB statement: Mural Arts seeks candidates who value and demonstrate the following core competencies: committed problem solving, deep thinking and fearless creation, inquisitive learning, thoughtful communication, mindful collaboration, personal accountability, and a commitment to actively prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. Mural Arts Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Wall Hunter Job (Location Scout)  

Mural Arts seeks an independent contractor who values and demonstrates the following core competencies in carrying out their work: committed problem solving, deep thinking and fearless creation, inquisitive learning, thoughtful communication, mindful collaboration, personal accountability, and a commitment to actively prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in their work.

Project Summary & Requirements
The Location Scout will engage in the duties listed below:

  • Identify 3-5 potential sites for approximately 10 mural projects in requested areas throughout the city
  • Extensive photography of potential sites for mural projects, including full building and detail shots of the wall
  • Coordinate site evaluations with the Operations team
  • Research and outreach to wall owners, including sending request letters and cold calling to obtain permission
  • Secure written permissions from wall owners in the form of signed Wall Authorizations
  • Creating a list of potential walls with photographs and wall owner information for future use
  • Update wall database with potential sites and active site engagements

Requirements:

  • Available to complete project deliverables during the time period of late February – April, 2024
  • A knowledge of the different neighborhoods of Philadelphia and background in construction and/or public art preferred.
  • Ability to respond quickly to requests.
  • Ability also to work independently, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and maintain focus in a fast-paced work environment.
  • High level of organization.
  • Computer proficiency in word processing, spreadsheets, data management, web/internet utilization. Google Drive suite and Smartsheets experience is a plus.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable access to a vehicle preferred.

Pay Rate:

This is an independent contractor position. The project budget and contractor rate will be considered to determine the final rate of pay. We are budgeting between approximately $18 – $20/hr for services.

To Apply:

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume to kathryn.poole@muralarts.org with “Location Scout” in the subject line. No phone calls or recruiters please.


 

Program Manager 

Restorative justice is an alternative to traditional means of rehabilitation and punishment which brings together returning citizens and community members, focusing on conversation and understanding as the first steps on the path to healing.

Art education, paired with personal and professional development, and hands-on assistance on mural projects forge the growth of strong, positive bonds among individuals who are incarcerated, returning citizens, justice-impacted individuals and communities. We place a strong emphasis on work readiness within our Guild program and give creative voice to people who have been disconnected from society.

Restorative Justice participants feel empowered by their accomplishments and emerge with a newfound sense of pride in their own abilities and enhanced employment readiness skills.

In addition, as part of the Anti-Violence Community Expansion Grant from the City of Philadelphia, Mural Arts Philadelphia has partnered with the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation to create a Rec Crew of Guild alumni who can help to transform several recreation centers in zip codes heavily impacted by violence.

Mural Arts Philadelphia is seeking a Program Manager to support the work of its nationally recognized Restorative Justice Program. This position will be responsible for day to day coordination in the Restorative Justice (RJ) Program with guidance from the Director. This position is an integral part of the Restorative Justice Team. It requires a strong desire to work in a collaborative manner with a robust village of internal and external partners assembled in service of the program participant’s personal and professional development/support and ultimate placement in job and or training opportunities.

Primary duties include:

  • Serve as an integral member of the Restorative Justice (RJ) Department team to advance the mission of Mural Arts Philadelphia and the goals of the RJ Department.
  • Manage GUILD cohorts for 20 to 25 justice impacted participants primarily between ages of 18 and 24.
    •  Create an environment that is safe, welcomes and respects participants from all backgrounds, and is in alignment with organization and departmental goals and values, rooted in restorative practices.
    • Monitor and support progress and growth of participants to maximize participation and contribution.
    •  Encourage feedback and investment in overall program development
    •  Serve as a resource to help participants navigate work/life obstacles and challenges
    •  Document attendance in accordance with department policy and protocols.
    •  Ensure all required data is collected and maintained to ensure compliance with funder requirements.
    •  Model, mentor and promote accountability for code of conduct specified in handbook.
    • Ensure participants are actively engaged in the program and accessing resources and services that will support their successful completion.
    •  Engage in collaborative and creative problem solving in service of the participants and the goals of the program.
    •  Serve as principal facilitator in class and primary point of contact with GUILD Program Participants.
  •  Serve as Chief Liaison for program instructors and serve as a support in the class during presentations.
    •  Develop and maintain partnerships with individuals and institutions to support programs and participants.
  •  Support recruitment efforts.
  •  Provide instruction on key life skill topics in the curriculum based on content knowledge.
  •  Partner with Department Director and identified consultants to develop curriculum planning for both Guild and its companion program the Rec Crew.
  •  Ensure the Organization and Department expectations and protocols are clear and consistently implemented.
  •  Engage in evaluation of individual progress and overall learning objectives for each cohort.
  •  Manage approved budget for GUILD program ensuring expenses are in alignment and all demonstrative protocols governing the budget are followed
  • Serve as an ambassador for Mural Arts and the Restorative Justice Department in the day-to-day work and in external forums when appropriate.
  •  Participate in organization wide trainings, events, meetings as required.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

  •  Commitment to the principles and practices of Restorative Justice
  •  Familiarity with program development and program implementation
  •  Belief in the power of participatory public art to beautify, inspire and empower
  •  Sensitivity to cultural, economic, gender, and sexual orientation differences.
  •  Alignment with core organizational values (curiosity, collaboration, innovation, diversity, equity, accountability and forgiveness)
  •  Ability to work well with diverse populations, especially those impacted by trauma
  •  Ability to both lead and learn
  •  Ability to multitask and work in a fast pace environment.
  •  Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, MAP departments, and leadership.

Preferred Qualifications

  •  Minimum of Five years experience working with Justice impacted the community.
  •  Bachelor’s Degree in related fields or equivalent experience
  •  Strong ability to facilitate groups in ways that engage and build investment.
  •  Familiarity with Restorative Practices and Trauma Informed Care.
  •  Experience working with the 18- to 24-year-old population in an educational or workforce development context.
  •  Curriculum and Program development experience
  •  Evidence of ability to work in a team and commitment to collaboration with internal and external partners
  •  Highly organized.
  •  Mediation skills
  •  Excellent communication skills
  •  Ability to build and maintain cross sector partnerships.
  •  Willingness to learn and grow in the role and support team members growth and development.
  •  Driver’s license (preferred)

Salary

This is a salaried position paying $55,000 to $60,000 per year based on experience

To Apply:

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and list of up to three (3) professional references to RJDirector@muralarts.org with “Restorative Justice Resource Coordinator” in the subject line. No phone calls or recruiters please.


 

Director of Mural Operations 

Mural Arts seeks a Director of Mural Operations. This individual is essential to the execution of the day-to-day operations of the organization. They are responsible for overseeing the ongoing maintenance of the collection and the lots, gardens, and parks they overlook; supervising the City of Philadelphia labor crew tasked with carrying out site preparation and mural maintenance; developing and managing vendor contracts and relationships. Lead, manage, and staff the Mural Operations team to efficiently and safely ensure that each mural’s artistic vision is realized and maintained for the long-term. Carefully assesses all potential mural sites, evaluating the conditions and helping Project Managers estimate and understand the cost of what needs to happen to prepare the sites. The Director of Mural Operations coordinates with internal team members and contractors to insure the timely completion of high-quality murals. Continually research, evaluate and field-test new products and techniques to improve the look, ease of implementation, and longevity of the murals and train staff on their application. This individual prepares and is accountable for the design and execution of detailed project plans with clear timeframes.

Mural Arts seeks candidates who value and demonstrate the following core competencies: committed problem solving, deep thinking & fearless creation, inquisitive learning, thoughtful communication, mindful collaboration, personal accountability, and a commitment to actively prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in the workplace.

This is a full-time City of Philadelphia paid position and reports to the Chief Operating Officer at Mural Arts.

Interested applicants must submit a resume and cover letter to Isaac Faller, Project Management and Operations Administrator, at isaac.faller@muralarts.org. Applications will be accepted until a hire is made.

Essential Functions

  • Direct, organize and monitor operations and on-site production of 100+ public art projects annually.
  • Oversee all aspects of contract management for wall preparation and cleaning, landscape needs, structural repairs, and project-specific installation requirements.
  • Manage maintenance and clean-up for the entire collection of murals (3500+).
  • Establish and implement operations policies, protocols, and procedures to ensure projects are installed safely and efficiently, liability is limited, and ongoing maintenance is proactive and low intervention.
  • Supervise a department of five (5) laborers, and work regularly and closely with staff, Executive Team, program directors, and project managers.
  • Lead efforts in safety training and skill sharing for Artists, Installers, and Project Managers – establish a schedule for themed-trainings, internal presentations for case studies, coordinate training with outside vendors as necessary, and additional skill building and knowledge sharing.
  • Direct inventory of over $3,000,000 in supplies and equipment annually, and departmental budget of approximately $45,000 each fiscal year.
  • The ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, independently, and efficiently with numerous deadlines.
  • Coordinate multi-stakeholder relationships with parties, including project managers, businesses, community groups and members, local government, artists, suppliers, and contractors.
  • Manage fleet of seven (7) City of Philadelphia vehicles; parking, maintenance, and repair scheduling.
  • Serve as liaison between city government and city employees on MAP staff.
  • This position requires a significant amount of lifting, carrying, moving heavy equipment, using a ladder regularly, and painting equipment.
  • Occasionally provide consulting services to public art organizations across the country through the Mural Arts Institute.

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Exceptional attention to detail.
  • Organized and methodical approach to work.
  • Strong analytical abilities and commitment to problem-solving.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work collaboratively to meet departmental goals.
  • Management skills.
  • Residency in the City of Philadelphia.

Work-Life

Working hours are generally 40 hours per week. Our team is currently hybrid with both virtual and in-office days.

Qualifications

  • HS or equivalent and 3-5 years of experience in construction or a related field.
  • A basic knowledge of masonry, carpentry, scaffold erection, color mixing, general artistic skills/ knowledge a plus.
  • Valid Driver’s License and the ability to drive City of Philadelphia vehicles.
  • The ability to work at heights, general painting / artistic skills

Additional Information

TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and resume to Isaac Faller, Project Management and Operations Administrator, at isaac.faller@muralarts.org.

Applications will be accepted until a hire is made.

Salary Range: $70,000

Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:

  • Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
  • Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 6 weeks of paid parental leave.
  • We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
  • Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
  • Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • Generous retirement savings options are available
  • Pay off your student loans faster – As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
  • Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
  • Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships – The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!
  • Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!

*The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire

Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov.

For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx


 

Restorative Justice Director  

Restorative justice is an alternative to traditional means of rehabilitation and punishment which brings together returning citizens and community members, focusing on conversation and understanding as the first steps on the path to healing.

Art education, paired with personal and professional development, and hands-on assistance on mural projects, forge the growth of strong, positive bonds among individuals who are incarcerated, returning citizens, justice-impacted individuals and communities. We place a strong emphasis on work readiness within our Guild program and give creative voice to people who have been disconnected from society.

Restorative Justice participants feel empowered by their accomplishments and emerge with a newfound sense of pride in their own abilities and enhanced employment readiness skills. The Restorative Justice program cultivates resilience in justice-impacted individuals, including those transitioning from incarceration back into civilian life.

Mural Arts Philadelphia is seeking a Director to lead the work of its nationally recognized Restorative Justice Program. Restorative Justice provides an opportunity for individuals to restore their relationships with themselves, their families, those experiencing harm, communities impacted by harm, and explore the opportunity for accountability. In the Restorative Justice paradigm, there is an acknowledgment of interconnectedness and alternatives to punishment. This reimaging courageously engages the first steps on the path to healing and positive contribution.

Consistent with the multiple levels of impact Mural Arts strives to achieve across its many programs, our Restorative Justice Program aims to:

  • Improve opportunities and quality of life for those in and returning from prison in order to reduce recidivism and increase chances of successful re-entry.
  • Stimulate healing in communities negatively impacted by crime and incarceration, including those who are victimized by crime and the families that suffer from the disruptive effects of mass incarceration.
  • Model safety and care through comprehensive programs, empowerment through art, and a focus on eliminating violence.
  • Use community art and partnerships with justice and diversion organizations to engage and inform diverse audiences about specific issues and challenges relating to the justice system with the goal of creating a more supportive environment for those re-entering society.
  •  Develop the capacity of staff and program members to incorporate restorative practices in the community through modeling and encouraging creative and effective approaches to discipline.
  •  Influence the systems that devise and implement our criminal justice system to reduce inequity and bias and pursue strategies that best serve the needs of individuals and communities.

The Restorative Justice Program accomplishes these goals through an interconnected series of activities, including:

  • High profile public art projects examining topics of critical relevance to the justice system.
  • Art workshops at state and local prisons.
  •  A four-to-six-month re-entry program in which participants build intra-program relationships, learn self-care practices, public engagement skills, apprentice on public art projects, and receive job training and placement support.
  • Peer mentorship and continuing support for re-entry graduates that become alumni.
  •  The program also facilitates public events, symposia, and exhibitions designed to foster dialogue about key issues and offer a platform to underrepresented voices within the system. All of these efforts are led in deep collaboration with the City of Philadelphia and a vast network of partners.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and advance the vision and goals of the program in collaboration with the team and Mural Arts’ leadership.
  • Supervise, mentor, and support the team assigned to the work.
  •  Communicate the mission of Restorative Justice as a space of positive relationship, safety, rediscovery and discovery, and skill development.
  •  Oversee the work of consultants, artists, instructors assigned to the program.
  • Develop and maintain the partnerships necessary to advance the work in collaboration with key staff.
  •  Develop and manage the program’s budget.
  • Evaluate the program’s offerings and innovate areas reflective of the need for this justice impacted community.
  •  Oversee data systems and organize the collection of necessary data, and prepare reports as required.
  •  Create learning spaces where curriculum and/or relevant content is organized, coordinated, facilitated and effectively presented.
  •  Coordinate project management of public art projects aligned with core curriculum.
  • Collaborate with core support divisions (Communications, Development and Finance) to assist the efforts to fundraise, market, and track the work of the Program.
  •  Support the cultivation of donors interested in the work of Restorative Justice.
  • Serve on Mural Arts’ leadership team and participate in strategic discussion about Mural Arts’ work and its future.
  •  Generate narrative reports for funding and reporting purposes.
  • Serve as ambassador for Mural Arts and the Restorative Justice Program in a wide range of settings locally, nationally and internationally.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

  •  Commitment to the principles of restorative justice and restorative practices.
  •  Familiarity and connections with the criminal justice system.
  • Experience with program development and implementation.
  •  Belief in the power of participatory public art to beautify, inspire and empower.
  •  Creative problem-solving skills.
  •  Ability to effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
  •  Sensitivity to cultural, economic, gender, and sexual orientation differences.
  •  Alignment with core organizational values (curiosity, collaboration, innovation, diversity, equity, accountability and forgiveness).
  •  Ability to work well with diverse populations, especially those impacted by trauma.

Requirements:

  •  Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in social service, criminal justice, restorative justice, program management or related field.
  •  Minimum 10 years’ experience managing people while effectively managing programs/projects.
  •  Ability to motivate and lead people and programs with vision, creativity, and strategy.
  •  Capacity to work collaboratively within this program and across Mural Arts to ensure a robust cross sector approach to the work.
  •  Capacity to develop, nurture, and advance people and partnerships.
  •  Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
  •  Ability to multitask and work well in a fast-paced environment.
  •  Experience supervising diverse teams.
  •  Awareness of the skills required for justice impacted individuals to reenter successfully.
  • Proven experience collecting and utilizing data to inform programmatic decisions and monitor plans for restorative justice interventions.
  •  Strong and creative problem-solving skills.
  •  Commitment to justice, compassion, and restoration.
  •  Strong attention to detail.
  •  Vision for the impact of art as a catalyst for change. Team and community driven.
  •  Ability to develop and manage budgets.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in social service, criminal justice, or restorative justice.
  •  Justice impacted, and/or understanding the importance of advocacy for the justice impacted, and/or a strong knowledge of the carceral system and its impact on individuals and community.
  •  Strong experience with and knowledge of criminal justice.
  •  Demonstrated experience working with high-risk populations.
  •  Excellent communications, interpersonal skills and collaborative skills.
  •  Ability to lead and supervise in a complex, fast paced environment.
  •  Flexible, self-motivated, organized, able to work well under pressure.
  • Dedicated to social justice.

This job description is a summary of the duties of the above position. Other related duties may be required by the supervisor.

Salary:

This is a salaried exempt position paying in the range of $70,000 – 80,000 per year depending on experience.

To Apply:

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and list of up to three (3) professional references to RJDirector@muralarts.org with “Restorative Justice Director” in the subject line. No phone calls or recruiters please.

Mural Arts is pleased to offer a competitive comprehensive health and dental benefits package.

For more information visit muralarts.org.

Follow us on social media: @muralarts on Twitter and Instagram, MuralArtsPhiladelphia on Facebook, and phillymuralarts on YouTube.


 


Artist Opportunities