Project Coordinator
The University of California, San Diego
About this position
Position Description
Under the direction of the Associate Director, Artistic Programs & Operations, the Project Coordinator supports the Chief Campus Curator's Office. This role implements the curatorial vision and project plans developed by the Associate Director and Chief Campus Curator, ensuring seamless execution through technical and project management excellence. Working in close collaboration with the Associate Director throughout each project phase, the Coordinator realizes exhibitions and artistic projects across multiple venues and formats—including campus-wide site-specific installations, outdoor public art projects, gallery-based exhibitions, and digital or technology-based works. The Coordinator brings logistical and technical concerns to the Associate Director for decision-making, providing recommendations while maintaining autonomy in determining methods for executing approved plans. The position performs operational analysis related to exhibition logistics, fabrication planning, installation methods, budget tracking, conservation considerations, accessibility compliance, and institutional procedures. The incumbent gathers and assembles relevant data, evaluates practical options within defined parameters, and provides recommendations to support project execution. Working within established guidelines and approved project plans, coordinates production activities across campus venues, external vendors, and internal stakeholders to ensure exhibitions are installed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with institutional standards. The role exercises independent judgment in determining appropriate implementation methods while elevating policy or strategic decisions to the Associate Director. The position participates in project planning discussions, prepares required documentation, tracks budgets and timelines, and supports continuous improvement of exhibition workflows. Scope is limited to projects of moderate complexity and operates within defined curatorial and administrative direction. The incumbent translates the vision developed by the Associate Director into technically executable designs. A Cover letter is required for an application to be considered complete.
Qualifications
Working knowledge of common organization- or research-specific and other computer application programs. Demonstrated experience supporting the full life cycle of exhibitions, installations, or comparable multi-phase creative projects from planning through de-installation. Proficient in communication and interpersonal skills to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Proficient in ability to use discretion and maintain all confidentiality. Demonstrates ability to use sound judgment in responding to issues and concerns. Demonstrates ability to analyze, research and synthesize large amounts of data with strong attention to detail. Experience tracking project budgets for fabrication, materials, and installation, and maintaining accurate expenditure documentation. Proficient in ability to multi-task with demanding timeframes. Working knowledge of applicable policy analysis techniques. Demonstrated ability to prepare technical documentation such as installation instructions, exhibition specifications, condition reports, or production timelines. Working knowledge of museum or gallery best practices related to conservation, environmental controls, artwork handling, and condition reporting. Experience coordinating artwork fabrication, mounting, framing, packing, transportation, and installation logistics in accordance with established handling standards. Proven ability to develop and interpret exhibition floor plans, renderings, lighting layouts, or spatial designs in collaboration with artists or designers.
Job Location
Hybrid