Public Art Production Manager

Powerhouse Arts is a not-for-profit organization committed to creative expression. Housed in a purpose-built-facility in Brooklyn, the organization hosts an extended network of art and fabrication professionals and educators who work together to co-create and share artistic practices vital to the well-being of artists and the communities to which they serve. Our new facilities house fabrication services, production services, production spaces, and member workshops for artisans. In 2025, PHA expects to welcome in thousands of patrons as the building becomes a center for art and performance. Over the next few years, PHA will see growth and expansion in all areas of business and an increased focus on revenue generation.

The Public Art Production Manager organizes the end-to-end production of large-scale public art projects. Reporting directly to the Director of Public Art, this position manages project planning, cost estimating, budgets, vendors, and execution of productions while supervising the Public Art Production Coordinator. The Production Manager serves as the primary liaison between artists, clients, fabricators, and internal teams, while ensuring that complex, multi-stakeholder projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This role requires exceptional communication skills, strong leadership abilities, extensive project management experience, and deep knowledge of fabrication processes. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

Project Management

• Manage multiple concurrent public art projects from conception through installation and closeout
• Develop comprehensive fabrication plans, timelines, and budgets in collaboration with the Director of Public Art
• Serve as primary point of contact for clients, artists, and key stakeholders throughout project lifecycles
• Conduct site surveys and assess project feasibility, fabrication methods, and installation logistics to inform project planning
• Lead project meetings and coordinate between internal teams, clients, and external partners
• Maintain proactive and clear communication with all stakeholders through regular updates and timely responses 
• Supervise the Public Art Production Coordinator and coordinate with the Fabrication & Installation Manager 

Budget & Financial Management

• Analyze project scopes, drawings, and specifications to develop detailed time, material, and labor estimates
• Develop and monitor project budgets, including labor, materials, subcontracted services, shipping, installation, and deinstallation
• Proactively manage budget variances and contingencies
• Negotiate contracts and pricing with vendors, subcontractors, and consultants
• Assist in financial reporting and ensure accurate tracking of project revenue and resource allocation 

Production & Fabrication Oversight

• Collaborate with artists and designers to develop buildable solutions that balance artistic vision with technical feasibility and budgets
• Coordinate design development, production of fabrication drawings, and engineering consultations
• Source and vet over hire fabricators, specialty vendors, and consultants
• Oversee fabrication processes to ensure quality standards, adherence to timelines, and budget compliance
• Troubleshoot production challenges, implement solutions in real-time, and escalate conflicts to Director of Public Art as needed
• Manage material procurement and inventory tracking

Installation & Project Closeout

• Plan and coordinate installation logistics, including shipping, art handling, site coordination, and any rigging requirements
• Oversee installation teams and ensure compliance with safety protocols and site requirements
• Coordinate insurance and regulatory compliance as needed
• Manage project documentation, including progress reports and condition reports, and installation/maintenance manuals 
• Conduct post-project evaluations and recommend process improvements

External Partnerships & Internal Collaboration 

• Build and maintain relationships with fabricators, vendors, artists, galleries, and commissioning bodies 
• Represent Powerhouse Arts at client meetings, site visits, and industry events
• Support new business development with the Director of Public Art
• Collaborate with other Powerhouse Arts departments on cross-departmental projects and internal programming initiatives

Qualifications

Powerhouse Arts is a safe, inclusive workplace for people of all backgrounds and walks of life. We strongly encourage you to apply if you are from a marginalized or underrepresented group. The requirements listed are guidelines, you don't have to satisfy every requirement or meet every qualification listed. If 80% of what you read fits you, or if you have skills that are transferable, please apply. 

• 5-7 years of progressive experience in project management, production management, art fabrication, or related field, with at least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory role
• Proven ability to manage large-scale art projects with high-figure budgets
• Strong understanding of fabrication processes across multiple disciplines (metalwork, woodworking, finishing, digital fabrication, etc.) and associated cost drivers
• Demonstrated experience with budget management, financial tracking, and contracts
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret drawings and specifications to develop comprehensive cost estimates 
• Proficiency with project management software (Asana, Monday.com, or similar), financial tracking software, and Microsoft Office Suite
• Knowledge of engineering principles, structural systems, and OSHA safety standards
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust, navigate sensitive conversations, and maintain professional relationships across multiple stakeholder groups 
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with ability to tailor messaging for diverse audiences, including artists, institutional clients, fabricators, and internal teams 
• Strong problem-solving abilities and comfort making decisions in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments
• Commitment to creative expression and supporting artists in advancing their practice

Compensation & Benefits: Salary range is $80,000-$90,000 and commensurate with experience. Benefits include health insurance, an employer-sponsored retirement plan, generous paid vacation, and a Citibike membership.

Powerhouse Arts is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants receive consideration without regard to race, age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. Powerhouse is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace and recognize the positive value of diversity.

For more information, visit www.powerhousearts.org