We’re Hiring: Light Work Director

Director (Full-time) Master’s degree or equivalent experience preferred

Priority Deadline: May 15, 2021— APPY HERE

This position will remain open until filled. However, we will give priority to applications received before May 15, 2021.

Housed in the Robert B. Menschel Media Center at Syracuse University, Light Work is one of the country’s most respected art institutions. Founded as an artist-run, non-profit organization in 1973, Light Work provides direct support through residencies, publications, exhibitions, a digital lab facility, and other related projects to emerging and under-represented artists working in photography and digital imaging.

We are seeking a dynamic, highly qualified, experienced individual for the Director’s position, and we strongly encourage applications from individuals of diverse cultural backgrounds. The Director reports to the Executive Director and is responsible for Light Work’s overall management, including physical facilities, financial management, human resources, and growth and development. In consultation with the other executive team members, the Director determines the professional practices, standards, and strategies involved in furthering the organization’s mission. The Director will manage all aspects of the organization including curatorial vision, programming, grant research/writing, fundraising, financial management, public relations/marketing, and staff development. Light Work is entering its 50th year of operation, and the successful candidate will expand on Light Work’s legacy in the photographic community and offer a strategic vision in line with evolving institutional and curatorial best practices. They will possess demonstrated managerial skills and experience in all key areas, including budget management.

A demonstrated knowledge of contemporary art, emphasizing photography and digital imaging, is vital to the position. Successful candidates will have a Masters in Fine Arts or equivalent experience with knowledge of photographic and digital imaging techniques. The position requires the ability to work as part of a team and the proven ability to take initiative.

Light Work is an equal opportunity employer. Upon request, both Light Work and Syracuse University will provide accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment, assessment, and selection process.



Job Description

  • The successful candidate will be an individual who understands and champions the organization’s commitment to supporting emerging and under-recognized artists.
  • Responsible for the successful operation of the Light Work Lab so that services are delivered to meet the needs of the members of the Lab and the University community.
  • Responsible for the fiscal success of Light Work Lab and Light Work Visual Studies, Inc., which includes managing budgets and raising funds through earned income and grants from individuals, foundations, and government agencies.
  • Maintaining diversity and artistic excellence in all programs including Artist-in-Residence, exhibitions, publications, and access to all public platforms, including website, social media, print, and marketing campaigns.
  • Successfully manage a staff of six full-time and two part-time staff, and several work study students.
  • Work successfully as a member unit of the Coalition of Museum and Art Centers (CMAC) in order to collaborate with other CMAC units and University Departments in order to make the arts an integral part of campus life.

Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity, affirmative-action institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities. For a detailed position description and online application instructions, go to www.sujobopps.com (Job #036896).  Cover letter and resume must be attached.  Review of applications begins immediately and the search will remain open until the position is filled.  Syracuse University is an AA/EOE.