Employment Opportunities

Career Opportunities in the College of Fine Arts

Employment at the College of Fine Arts offers the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and artistic environment.

Join us in the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts at Howard University, a premier, comprehensive, research university in Washington, D.C. If you are interested in being surrounded by people whose innovative ideas and undying commitment are shaping tomorrow’s young artist scholars, we invite you to apply for the positions listed below. 

Howard University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex, marital status, religion, or disability. Inquiries regarding provisions for persons with disabilities, equal employment opportunity and Title IX should be directed to the Chief Human Resources Officer at (202) 806-1280.

Department of Art - Fine Arts Workshop Technician

BASIC FUNCTION:                             

The Fine Arts Workshop Technician will work in the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts with specialist knowledge, skills and experience of particular materials such as paint, wood, metal, textiles, ceramics, or audio-visual. They will work with a range of specialties such as: painting, fashion, ceramics and will be based within a central workshop where they will engage with students from across a range of arts disciplines. A large part of the role will be student facing, where they will be responsible for demonstrating the use of specialist tools, software, techniques and equipment to the students.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:    

Responsible for orienting and training others, and assigning and reviewing their work. May also be responsible for acting in a “lead” or “senior” capacity over other positions performing essentially the same work, or related technical tasks and reporting to a higher level on a formal basis. They will mainly work without direct supervision and determine the priority of their own work. The position will involve making decisions on a variety of both complex and routine issues relating to their duties and responsibilities.

NATURE AND SCOPE:                       

Internal contacts include administrators, faculty, students and staff of the department and the University at large. External contacts include consultants, vendors, representatives from other colleges and universities, visitors and the general public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:      

Co-operatively plan and oversee all aspects of the day-to-day operations and studios of the Fine Arts workshop and work areas.

Supervise and instruct undergraduate, graduate and academic staff in the training and guidance, safe operation and use of all power and hand tools in the workshop and general workshop skills.

Assist faculty and instructional staff with demonstrations pertaining to course projects.

Assist students through a multidisciplinary approach on the choice of materials, techniques and equipment used to complete their project.

The technician will be required to anticipate demand within the workshop and ensure that Health and Safety procedures are adhered to by all workshop users.

Provide health and safety training on equipment and tools for all staff, students and visitors within the workshop area, including keeping detailed records of training.

Keep up to date with developments in Health and Safety legislation as well as assessing safety in the workshop, managing risk assessments, maintaining accident/incident records; and advising on equipment manual handling.

Organize the maintenance and upkeep of all mechanical equipment, including inventory, cleaning, and carrying out minor repairs, organize servicing and larger repairs of equipment.

Identify maintenance requests to be contracted out.

Exercises fiscal responsibility in the purchase, use and replacement of materials, tools, and equipment.

Ensures the security and maintenance of the department tool room.

Oversee the Fine Arts Workshop building, repairing and maintaining of studio and exhibition spaces.

Performs related duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS:                    

Occasional heavy lifting is required.

Occasional ladder work is required.

Regular use of stationary and portable power tools.

CORE COMPETENCIES:                     

There are seven program areas that will access the workshop: Painting, Photography, Sculpture, Ceramics, Graphic Design, Fashion Design, and Interior Design. The student body comprises of undergraduate [BA] and graduate [MA and Ph.D.].

A solid understanding of Woodworking techniques, metal work and construction of various and sometimes complex product design and art installations.

Familiar with safe operation and maintenance of workshop equipment and tools.

Competent at planning, designing, setting up, and installation of Art and Design Degree exhibition shows and studio spaces in conjunction with faculty and staff.

The position requires that the technician use their knowledge, experience and initiative to resolve routine and sometimes complex non-standard technical queries and problems raised by students, faculty, staff and other technical team colleagues.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:               

Advanced degree or knowledge in more than one relevant discipline or 3 years’ experience in a workshop environment.

Knowledge of woodworking, metalworking, casting, design, fabrication techniques, Ceramic glazes (keep mixed and usable), and Ceramic kilns.

IT skills, CAD and 3D modeling techniques and related software.

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills; interpersonal skills, possessing an inquisitive mind, with an ability to solve problems in a practical and efficient manner.

Expected to be highly efficient and have a good rapport with students and faculty.

Well-developed communication skills to enable the identification and understanding of students and faculty requirements.

Clear understanding of health and safety law and implications of non-compliance on others.

As the nature of the research work is constantly changing, skills must be updated and new one's learned. Course work/projects present ever-changing activities and challenges to the position.

Note: This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not to be construed as a contract for employment.

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Department of Music - Piano Care and Inventory Manager

BASIC FUNCTION:                             

The Piano Care and Inventory Manager executes tuning, regulation, voicing, repairs, action refurbishing, preventative maintenance, and other duties to maintain the fleet of Howard University Department of Music’s piano inventory at an optimal level located in the classroom, teaching studio, band room, and practice room. Additionally, the manager will perform concert level tunings voicing, maintenance, and repairs on the recital hall, auditorium pianos, and other locations on the campus. The Manager will maintain accurate computerized records of the university piano inventory including service history.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:    

Typically, little, if any, supervision of others is required. The job may require irregular but occasional responsibility to direct the work of student workers and/or temporary or part-time workers. The nature of supervision is largely confined to assigning tasks to others and does not include a full range of supervisory responsibilities. The amount of time spent on directing the work of others is normally a small portion of total work time. Incumbents typically work with general direction and supervision received from the Department Chairperson.

NATURE AND SCOPE:                       

Internal contacts include administrators, faculty, students and staff of the department and the University at large. External contacts include consultants, vendors, representatives from other colleges and universities, visitors and the general public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:      

Tuning, optimal maintenance scheduled, long-term care, oversight and general repairs of piano inventory of Howard University

Maintains tuning and maintenance schedule for university piano inventory

Maintain records and provides expertise regarding the effects of humidity and temperature changes on the piano inventory

Prepares concert hall pianos for all performances on a regular schedule

Consults with piano faculty and Department Chair regarding receiving piano donations and piano purchases

Schedules and supervises piano moves

Schedules and coordinates piano rentals

Executes and supervises orders for piano supplies

Consults with piano faculty, Department Chair, and Dean of the College of Fine Arts regarding the piano renewal initiative

Remains competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses as directed by the supervisor.

Performs related duties as assigned

CORE COMPETENCIES:                     

Effective verbal and written communication skills are required.  Effective interpersonal, collaborative, and customer service skills are required. Computer skill required for inventory maintenance, and communication with vendors, faculty, and administrators.

Other: Evening and weekend work is required due to concert and event scheduling.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:               

Bachelor’s degree and/or five (5) years of related experience preferred. Five (5) years’ experience in tuning, regulating, maintenance, and repair of grand and upright pianos. Five (5) years experience with concert level tuning. Piano Technicians Guild RPT Certification.

Note: This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not to be construed as a contract for employment.

Note: This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not to be construed as a contract for employment.

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Office of Choirs and Bands - Administrative and Operations Manager

BASIC FUNCTION:                                          

The Administrative and Operations Manager in the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts will coordinate and manage tasks related to the Office of Choirs and Bands; such as contract review for renting space, performance venues and performance bookings; contracts with service providers and contractors; assisting with outreach and marketing of programs and performances, requisition entry, travel planning, maintaining financial accounts and monitoring revenue and expenses, supporting the staff and faculty directors as needed, and, liaison with the Office of the Dean.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:                

Responsible for orienting and training others, and assigning and reviewing their work. May also be responsible for acting in a “lead” or “senior” capacity over other positions performing essentially the same work, or related technical tasks and reporting to a higher level on a formal basis.

NATURE AND SCOPE:                                    

Internal contacts include administrators, faculty, students and staff of the department and the University at large. External contacts include consultants, representatives from other colleges and universities, visitors and the general public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:                    

Assist with the coordination of performances and review artistic contracts/agreements for appropriate signatures.

Work closely with faculty and staff directors of auxiliary units, choirs, bands, ensembles, etc., to ensure that season dates are set and budgeted appropriately.

Develop and implement systems and procedures that ensure cost-effective management, accurate budgeting, and financial accounting practices.

Act as the primary liaison between the various auxiliary units (choirs, bands, ensembles, etc.) and the performance venues.

Facilitate travel, lodging and logistics for out-of-town trips and performances.

Communicate with contractors and service providers.

Communicate with faculty, staff, and student families to disseminate, collect or explain information, and answer questions as needed.

Data entry for various Office of Choirs and Bands databases.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:                                  

The job requires occasional presence at rehearsal and performance sites

Organize, plan, and prioritize work in a calendar-driven environment

Strong capability to multi-task

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Ability to engage positively with people

Strong computer literacy, with experience/fluency in Microsoft Office Suite applications

Experience with database applications highly desirable

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:                          

Bachelor’s degree in music (preferable) or other performing arts discipline; performing arts work or arts administration or management experience

Experience working with large groups and/or volunteers; leadership and/or supervisory experience highly desirable

Note: This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not to be construed as a contract for employment.

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Office of Choirs and Bands - Director of Bands

BASIC FUNCTION:       

The Director of Bands is responsible for the orchestration and coordination of all facets of the band program that supports student growth and learning, athletics, and university representation. With specific responsibility for the SHOWTIME Marching Band, Wind Symphony and Pep Band, the Director of Bands has an active interface with the Department of Music faculty and is expected to be in service to the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts and to the University. The Director of Bands will maintain a regional, national, and international profile through scholarship and creative activities in the wind band field, will demonstrate a commitment to performing repertoire that is diverse, and will stretch the cultural, artistic, and aesthetic range of performance experiences to which students are exposed.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:

Supervising band members, undergraduate and graduate assistants and administrative staff.

NATURE AND SCOPE: 

Internal contacts may include senior administrators, faculty, students and staff. External contacts may include vendors, consultants and the general public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:  

In ensuring the coordination, quality, and symmetry of the university band program the Director among others, has the following specific duties:

Leads a robust and dynamic band program to represent Howard University.

Provides artistic leadership, curricular and development of band skills for band members to enhance overall performance.

Ability to schedule and execute all phases of performance preparation that attends to the needs of students and the ultimate performance product.

Prepares and executes all phases of a marching band of observable excellence in both sight and sound.

Provides overall leadership of the bands full and part-time staff and their responsibilities including band arranging, field show design, and program development.

Develops strategies that effectively use scholarships and fundraising to achieve enrollment goals.

Fosters structures, behaviors, and discipline that enhance student perseverance to achieve a quality band program.

Executes a recruitment strategy that delivers an appropriately sized and quality marching band.

Manages band program participation in on-campus events and programs, large-scale traditions, and off-campus events.

Plans and implements a summer band campus experience, regular rehearsal/practice schedule, and performance schedule.

Collaborates with Campus Partners including Athletics, Admissions, Student Affairs, and others to contribute to the student life experience.

Provides administrative leadership for the band program by serving as a good steward of university assets and managing the band budget, instruments, equipment, uniforms, practice facility, etc.

Approximately 60 percent of time is spent as Music Director and 40 percent of time is administrative.

Models professional and personal behaviors that further the interest of the band program and the University.

Recruit prospective students to Howard University and into the band program through high school recruitment visits, participation in recruitment events, and consistent outreach to students and band directors regionally, nationally and internationally.

Host on-campus high school band competitions and summer camps.

Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

Successful experience serving in a leadership role for a Marching Band on the college level.

Experience with fund raising and recruitment, and the ability to collaborate with others in the ongoing development of the music curriculum.

Effective pedagogical skills.

Excellent written and spoken communication skills.

High energy and enthusiasm to work with students and propel them toward success.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, are required to execute the position’s responsibility.

Frequent travel to/from off-campus events, athletic games, and recruitment activities.

Occasional travel to/from campus for the facilitation of trainings, meetings and other university functions.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:  

At least five to ten years of demonstrated success as a head band director and a master’s degree.

Experience performing in ensembles and in building a concert band program and music administration is preferred.

Skill in arranging music.

Capacity to use technology (software) to arrange and plan performances.

Note: This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not to be construed as a contract for employment.

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Office of the Dean - Advising Services Coordinator

BASIC FUNCTION:                             

The Advising Services Coordinator in the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts advises students concerning their academic plans and progress, academic schedule, choice of major, and other academic activities and career goals, and assists the student in making decisions concerning personal educational goals leading to graduation.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:    

Involves no responsibility or authority for the direction of others.

NATURE AND SCOPE:                       

Internal contacts include administrators, faculty, students and staff of the department and the University at large. External contacts include consultants, vendors, representatives from other colleges and universities, visitors and the general public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:      

Advise students individually and/or with groups regarding academic core and/or departmental requirements, appropriate class selection, academic policies and procedures, and campus resources.

Review placement tests and certifications with students to ensure they are fulfilling requirements and are placed in the proper classes or programs.

Assist students with identification of long-term goals and career plans.

Work to position students to meet requirements for graduation within appropriate periods of time while preparing them to meet future goals.

Keep up with registration deadlines and help make sure students register on time.

Assist students with any changes in their course of study.

Meet with students regularly to review degree progress and graduation requirements.

Advise special populations of students within scope of responsibility, such as new or transfer students, undeclared majors, etc., assisting in exploration of academic programs, and focusing on academic direction, procedures, policies, and available resources.

Maintain advising records and confidential student evaluation records.

Utilize HU information systems to support delivery of advising services.

Serve on appropriate department, college and/or campus advisory committees.

Attend college fairs to meet with potential students.

Perform related duties as required or deemed necessary to meet the Academic Advising goals within the Advisor's scope of responsibility.

CORE COMPETENCIES:               

Knowledge of student advising, student development theory, and/or career development theory.

Knowledge of current market and job trends relevant to preparing students for the world of work in the Fine and Performing Arts.

Knowledge of and ability to coordinate programs and utilize technology.

Ability to uphold basic ethical practices of the National Academic Advising Association (Nacada).

Ability to demonstrate good judgment and analysis in decision-making and problem-solving.

Ability to commit to the highest level of professionalism, ethical standards, confidentiality, and sensitivity to information and records.

Ability to participate in evening, weekend and travel commitments as necessary.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:               

This position requires a Bachelor’s degree or work experience directly related to the Advisor's specific responsibilities with a minimum of five years of experience in advising or related academic functions within higher education.

Ability to exhibit creativity, self-direction, and the capacity for independent work, multi-tasking, and excellent organizational skills.

Knowledge and understanding of education and degree requirements for students wanting to graduate.

Superb communication and public speaking skills, and strong attention to detail.

Excellent interpersonal skills, especially with students.

Understanding of the skills and education necessary for students to enter various professions in the Fine and Performing Arts.

Note: This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not to be construed as a contract for employment.

Apply Now

Office of the Dean - Director of Marketing and Communications

BASIC FUNCTION:                              

The Director of Marketing and Communications for the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts plans, executes, and evaluates a comprehensive marketing communications strategy and implements communications from the College to its faculty, staff, students, alumni and the general public. This position works collaboratively with members of the Office of Development and Alumni Relations, Office of University Communications, and the College of Fine Arts to ensure consistency of messaging and promotes the overall institutional goals related to communications and marketing, engagement, and philanthropy.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:    

Responsible for orienting and training others, and assigning and reviewing their work. May also be responsible for acting in a “lead” or “senior” capacity over other positions performing essentially the same work, or related technical tasks and reporting to a higher level on a formal basis.

NATURE AND SCOPE:                       

Internal contacts include administrators, faculty, students and staff of the department and the University at large. External contacts include consultants, vendors, representatives from other colleges and universities, visitors and the general public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:      

Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy that promotes the College’s academic programs, research, initiatives, and events to internal and external stakeholders.

Manage and oversee all communication channels, including website, social media, email marketing, print materials, and media relations in coordination with Office of University Communications.

Work collaboratively with other departments to develop content for a variety of communication materials, including press releases, newsletters, brochures, speeches, and presentations.

Ensure consistency and accuracy of messaging, key College priorities and strategies across all marketing and communications channels and materials.

Serve as managing editor of the College of Fine Arts e-newsletter publication and coordinates content and tone.

With specific counsel from the Office of University Communications, ensure all marketing campaigns offer major online components that include: Digital Email Campaigns, Websites and Social Media.

Serve as a conduit for Development and Alumni Relations and University Communications to develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, community partners, and media outlets.

Strategize, write, edit, and manage creative collaborations, press releases, announcements, etc., for events and programmatic activity for the College and student marketing.

Manage print projects and marketing campaigns for events and programs.

Help generate ideas and execution for potential video concepting and production.

Identify other ways to market the College’s message and campaigns.

Monitor and analyze media coverage and trends to identify opportunities and challenges for the College.

Strategize and oversee all College promotional products in coordination with University branding.

Perform other duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:                     

Strong record of progressive experience in modern communications, including evidence of strong writing and editing skills, interpersonal skills, presentation skills, and knowledge of marketing.

Proficiency with content management and social media tools.

Ability to implement high-level marketing and communications projects.

Strong understanding of effective graphic design and branding principles.

Ability to manage multiple and competing priorities in a dynamic environment with a keen attention to detail.

Advanced knowledge of office and administrative practices and principles.

Ability to analyze, condense and synthesize information; and, provide accurate analysis and summaries.

Skill in the operation of computers and understanding of web-based technologies, including basic knowledge of HTML, design applications such as Photoshop and InDesign, and proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite of products; and, Adobe, Canva, other design software.

Knowledge and skill in accounting and budgeting procedures and techniques.

Ability to problem solve and make decisions; flexibility and adaptability.

Ability to exercise discretion and ensure a high-level of confidentiality.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with a diverse population; excellent organization, project management and proofreading skills.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:               

Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, development or related field.

5 – 7 years of marketing, communications, journalism, alumni relations, development, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Occasional travel: some evening and weekend work required.

Note: This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not to be construed as a contract for employment.

Apply Now