Property Manager, Rauschenberg Residency

About the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation:

The Robert Rauschenberg Foundation expands the legacy of artist Robert Rauschenberg (1925–2008), who believed in the power of art as a catalyst for social change. The Foundation delivers its mission through research, support for exhibitions, and sustaining innovative artists and socially engaged institutions. It supports small to midsize arts and socially engaged organizations that are experimental and courageous, driving equity and embodying Rauschenberg's multidisciplinary approach. Additionally, the Foundation promotes his legacy through residencies, commissions, public platforms, and global partnerships.

Rauschenberg was a strong believer in collaboration between artists and across cultures. His life and  work demonstrated how art could be a vehicle for social change, locally and globally. We are proud to  carry Rauschenberg’s legacy forward, and the impact of his spirit and style are reflected in the projects  that we invest in. 

Position Summary: 
The Property Manager is responsible for the condition, appearance, and upkeep of the physical facilities, grounds and green spaces at the international, multidisciplinary artists’ community located on 20 acres in Captiva, Florida. The residency supports ~100 artists and scholars annually through a series of five week residencies. The role has broad oversight of the resident buildings, mechanical infrastructure, including HVAC systems and controls, backup generators, rainwater reuse and wastewater systems, landscape maintenance, and security systems. 

On-Site Living Requirement: This position requires the individual to live on-site (housing accommodations provided, which may include provisions for family members) and be available for on-call support to address property maintenance or artist residency needs, ensuring the smooth operation of the facilities and a supportive environment for residents.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

The duties and responsibilities of the Property Manager involve creating and maintaining the aesthetic design and functioning of a sustainable artist- in-residence campus. The Facilities Manager is responsible for five (6) key areas of focus including: Building Maintenance, Outdoor Maintenance, Equipment,  Vendor Management, Safety & Emergency Preparedness, and Artist Residency Support.

Building Maintenance:

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual preventative maintenance checklists and conduct maintenance on residences, studios and other building and related systems (water meters, power shutoff valves, propane levels, etc.).
• Possess advanced construction management skills with strong knowledge of HVAC/BMS systems, plumbing, wastewater and rainwater reuse systems, electrical, and other building systems.
• Identify carpentry, electrical, HVAC and plumbing maintenance needs and coordinate with appropriate vendors to proactively address.

Outdoor Maintenance:

• Manage tasks related to seasonal maintenance projects.
• Shop for appropriate supplies for maintenance.
• Maintain garden infrastructure and compost containers.

Equipment & Vendor Management:

• Prepare checklists and manage monthly preventative maintenance on facilities equipment including power pruner, chain saw, generators. 
• Responsible for the regular maintenance for vehicles including the Prius, Sprinter, tractor, golf carts, bicycles, kayaks, paddleboards, and utility cart.  
• Present maintenance and repair issues to external vendors, when necessary.
• Recommend, select, and monitor facilities vendors (electricians, plumbers, HVAC specialist, pool  maintenance, landscapers, pest control, security, etc.) to ensure expenses are controlled and  project timelines are met.  
• Manage service and vendor contracts once approved by the Facility Manager. 
• Interface with landscape vendor; monitor weekly work; evaluate contract annually. 
• Partner with Facility Manager to obtain required bids, secure permits, and oversee contractors for required construction and renovation projects. 
• Provide regular updates to Facility Manager regarding vendor, construction, and other major projects. 
• Coordinate all walk-throughs, surveys and inspections with the Facility Manager and appropriate  vendors. 
• Partner with the Facility Manager to plan for and manage all capital projects. 
• Prepare, support and adhere to the annual maintenance & repair budget once approved by the Facility Manager. 
• Participate in short and long-term climate adaptation planning and projects as new guidelines  and design for landscape & buildings are established. 
• Communicate regularly with all Residency Staff to navigate overlapping areas of responsibility. 

Safety & Emergency Preparedness :

• Create and maintain safety procedures and equipment. 
• Coordinate with the Facility Manager and HR Director to consistently update and annually review disaster preparedness plan, location-specific emergency action plan, and train staff. 
• Serve as emergency contact for emergency first responders (fire and police). 
• Supervise and coordinate storm and hurricane preparation, evacuation, and re-entry.
• Act as the liaison with emergency workers when the helipad is in use and ensure a safety corridor is maintained. 

Artist Residency Support :

• Partner with the Residency Director to conduct orientation tours for guests and artists at the beginning of each residency.
• Partner with Studio Manager to provide fabrication safety orientation, training demonstrations,  and artist assistance, as needed. 
• Be available for on-call support 24/7 to address security issues, property maintenance or artist residency needs.

Experience & Skills Required:

• 8-10 years’ experience in Campus and/or Hospitality property management including heavy vendor management.
• Experience in a creative arts, artist residency environment is a plus. 
• Proficiency in Spanish is required.
• High-level skills in project management, priority setting, and working to results. 
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with limited supervision as well as part of a team, creative and innovative self-starter. 
• Capacity to partner with and learn from others. 
• Ability to communicate with (verbal and written) diverse audiences and create a welcoming, customer service-focused environment for artists, visitors and community partners.
• Attention to detail to ensure that all jobs are completed in an exemplary manner and any potential hazards or warning signs of problems are not overlooked.
• Diplomacy, discretion, and sound judgment. 
• This position may require the ability to drive a forklift and scissors/boom lift as well as multiple electric & pneumatic hand tools 

ADA Specifications:

• Requires the ability to use a computer and office equipment traditionally found in office settings.
• This position requires manual dexterity as well as the ability to sit; stand; climb stairs & ladders; lift & move objects up to 50 lbs; and the ability to speak and hear, sometimes for extended periods of time. 
• Requires valid driver’s license to pick up supplies and occasionally transport artists and visitors locally.

Compensation & Benefits:

The Robert Rauschenberg Foundation offers a competitive base salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks.

As an equal opportunity employer and in our commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive work environment, the Rauschenberg Foundation strives to attract a diverse mix of talented people. Opportunities are based upon individual capabilities and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation/affectional preference, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as established under law. Individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds in art organizations are strongly encouraged to apply.