What are the responsibilities and job description for the Studio Programs Assistant position at Crystal Bridges?
The mission of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature. Founded by philanthropist and arts patron Alice Walton, Crystal Bridges is a public non-profit charitable organization.
Job Description:
Position Title: Studio Programs Assistant
Position Type: Full-Time
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Department: Public Programs
Reports to: Studio Programs Manager
Date Reviewed: 7/15/25
About Crystal Bridges & The Momentary:
Crystal Bridges is a museum of American art located in Bentonville, Arkansas. We explore the unfolding story of America by actively collecting, exhibiting, interpreting, and preserving outstanding works that illuminate the American heritage and artistic possibilities. Founded by Alice Walton in 2005, the museum opened in 2011 and is a public, non-profit charitable organization with free admission.
The Momentary is a contemporary art space that opened to the public on February 22, 2020, in downtown Bentonville, Arkansas. The Momentary is a venue for the music, art, and food of our time, and a catalyst for creativity and economic vitality. An extension to Crystal Bridges, the Momentary is a ‘living room’ where community gathers to be inspired, connected, and joyful. You belong here: make the most of this moment.
Position Summary:
The Studio Programs Assistant is a position within the Public Programs team within the Learning & Engagement Division. This role involves hands-on support of daily studio operations and provides vital assistance to educators, instructors, and volunteers to ensure a smooth, engaging, and well-maintained studio experience for the public. This includes administrative support, material management, volunteer coordination, and direct assistance with setup, facilitation, and cleanup of studio-based programs. This position requires regular weekend work and collaboration with the Studio Programs team and other departments across Crystal Bridges and the Momentary. Many programs take place during evenings and weekends, and availability during those times is essential.
Principal Responsibilities:
- Assist with the coordination and implementation of all Studio Programs, with a focus on studio maintenance, materials organization, and instructor support.
- Administer and process supply requests across studio projects and events; ensure timely ordering and restocking of materials.
- Support the studio team in maintaining supply inventory and studio systems, including clay processing, tool/material organization, and kiln loading/firing.
- Assist teaching artists with studio setup, materials distribution, and hands-on classroom support as needed.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for Studio Programs volunteers, including scheduling and day of coordination for Drop-In programs and The Studio.
- Lead hands-on artmaking activities during drop-in sessions and larger public events, providing a welcoming and creative environment for all visitors.
- Collaborate with the Learning & Engagement operations team on logistics, scheduling, and facility needs.
- Ensure planning tools such as calendars, Asana, and supply trackers are up to date and accurate.
- Assist the Studio Programs Manager with administrative tasks as needed.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Background or interest in art, art education, studio practice, or related fields (ceramics experience is a plus).
- Comfortable working in a physically active environment; ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform tasks like moving supplies, processing clay, or loading kilns.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to multitask and adapt in a dynamic setting.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Customer service mindset and experience working with diverse audiences.
- Ability to work regular weekends, occasional evenings, and some holidays as needed.
- Ability or willingness to learn Microsoft Office, Asana, and other relevant tools.
- Bilingual (Spanish language) is a plus.
- High school diploma or GED required; a bachelor's degree in art education, studio art, museum studies, or a related field is preferred but not required
Physical Demands and Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Physical demands: This position includes desk work, computer use, bending, lifting, stretching, and movement throughout studios, classrooms, galleries, and outdoor areas. Ability to move and transport supplies and equipment is essential. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Work environment: Work will be conducted in a variety of settings including studio classrooms, indoor galleries, outdoor spaces, and office environments. The noise level is typically low to moderate. Exposure to dust, clay, glazes, and other studio materials is routine.
All offers of employment are contingent on your successful completion (where permitted by state law) of a confidentiality agreement and background check. In addition, you will need to provide proper identification verifying your eligibility to work in the United States.
Crystal Bridges is an equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a workplace that is free of discrimination and harassment of any kind. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.
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