Writing Sample Requirement

As part of the application process, all applicants must submit a writing sample AND a cover letter in the document upload section of the application.

Applicants are required to write an artwork label for one artwork from the Salt Lake County Visual Art Collection. Please view the linked site to choose a piece of artwork on which to write.

Writing sample guidelines:

•  The label must not exceed 500 words.
•  The writing should be at a 6th–7th grade reading level.
•  The audience includes people who may have never visited a museum.
•  The tone should be clear, welcoming, and accessible.
•  Avoid academic language and art jargon.
•  The goal is to help the public understand and connect with the artwork.

JOB SUMMARY

Supports the County’s public art program, Art in Public Places, by assisting with the care and documentation of the County’s two art collections (Visual Art Collection and Percent for Art Collection), maintaining the County’s art database, supporting exhibition planning and installation, promoting the program through social media, and helping advance program initiatives. This position is supervised by the Art in Public Places Manager, and works closely with Salt Lake County staff, artists, and community partners to ensure the County’s public art is well-cared for, properly documented, and celebrated.

This position is 20 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with occasional evening or weekend events. Hours are flexible.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in art, arts administration, design, marketing, architecture, cultural studies, or a related field. Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to artwork sites throughout the County.

Preference given to candidates with experience in arts administration, public art, gallery/museum work, or collections care, and social media content creation and/or photography skills.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Maintain and update the art collections database, including accurate data entry, tracking artwork records, and ensuring the integrity of collection information.
• Assist with annual inventory of artworks and ongoing condition assessments to ensure proper care and documentation of the collections.
• Develop and schedule engaging social media content to highlight the art collections, showcase artists, and promote projects, in alignment with the Arts & Culture Division and County-wide social media strategies and in collaboration with other Arts & Culture Division marketing staff.
• Support all stages of public art projects, including fabrication, installation, documentation, and artist selection process.
• Plan and assist with the development and installation of rotating exhibitions in County facilities.
• Assist with development and implementation of public engagement events, tours, and educational programs for audiences of all ages.
• Prepare clear, compelling written materials for outreach, presentations, website content, and promotional purposes.
• Assist in creating accessibility and educational materials to ensure inclusive access to the arts.
• Provide general administrative support for Art in Public Places program initiatives.
• Collaborate with staff across the Arts & Culture Division, other County departments, and occasionally the Mayor’s office and elected officials to provide support for projects and initiatives.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSA)

Knowledge of:

• Visual art principles and artist communities (Utah-specific knowledge preferred, but not required)
• Public art concepts and best practices (preferred, not required)

 Skills and Abilities to:

• Carefully handle artworks and learn proper care techniques
• Communicate clearly in writing and in person with a wide range of people
• Stay organized, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Comfortably speak to groups, including public tours
• Use Microsoft Office and basic graphic design or photo editing software (Photoshop or similar)
• Set priorities, work independently, and collaborate as a team member
• Understand and effectively use social media platforms, including Instagram, to engage audiences and promote projects

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Ability to lift 50 lbs, including moving and installation of artwork, files, and computer equipment
• Regular travel throughout Salt Lake County to artwork sites, including driving a County vehicle
• Intermittent exposure to moderate noise levels (such as while visiting construction sites)
• Constant exposure to computer display screens

TEMPORARY POSITIONS:

An “At Will”, FLSA non-exempt employee who is not eligible for County benefits and who must work an average of 29 hours or less per week or an average of 129 hours or less per month.

Must work an average of 29 hours or less per week or an average of 129 hours or less per month.

• Are not eligible for County benefits except as otherwise provided for by policy.
• Are not considered merit employees.
• Are “at will” employees who may be terminated for any reason, without notice, and without a pretermination hearing.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING THIS POSITION

This position may require working holidays, nights, and weekends as needed.