Operations Assistant

The Cook Foundation seeks a versatile, detail-oriented Operations Assistant to provide key support to our Executive Director and offer essential assistance to our bookkeeping team. This dynamic role combines executive-level administrative support with financial coordination, offering an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a mission-driven arts environment. The ideal candidate will excel at managing complex schedules, supporting exhibition development, and ensuring smooth operational workflows.

Compensation: $20-22/hour, plus holidays and vacation time

Location: Gloucester, Virginia

Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday (Full-Time)

Key Responsibilities

Executive Support & Exhibition Management

• Assist the Executive Director in planning and executing exhibition ideation, installation, and promotion
• Manage the Executive Director's schedule, including arranging and confirming meetings, calls, and engagements
• Assist in meeting preparation, planning, and execution
• Draft, review, and manage correspondence on behalf of Foundation leadership
• Conduct research and assist with special projects as needed
• Handle confidential information and communications with discretion and professionalism

Financial & Bookkeeping Support

• Code receipts and prepare reports for the accounting and bookkeeping team
• Assist with bookkeeping processes and financial documentation
• Support the bookkeeping team with administrative tasks as needed

Communications & Digital Engagement

• May assist in managing the organization's social media accounts, including creating content, scheduling posts, and tracking engagement metrics
• May assist with social media content creation and publication to promote exhibitions, events, and organizational initiatives
• Respond to inquiries from the public and provide excellent customer service

Visitor Services & Event Support

• Serve as a welcoming point of contact for museum visitors when needed
• Provide information about current exhibitions, artists, and programs
• Assist with event logistics, including setting up and breaking down event spaces, coordinating with vendors, and managing event registrations
• Provide essential support during the Gloucester Arts Festival, our signature annual event
• Assist with planning and execution of special programs, openings, and community events
• Monitor and report museum attendance and special event participation to stakeholders

Required Qualifications

• Proficient in Google Workspace, including Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google Sheets
• Proficient in Adobe products (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), Canva, and Later.com
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills
• Keen attention to detail
• Professional, welcoming demeanor with a genuine passion for the arts
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing needs
• Comfort handling confidential information with discretion
• Basic understanding of bookkeeping processes or willingness to learn
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Passion for the arts and commitment to the Cook Foundation's mission of bringing and expanding access to fine and performing arts to all

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a nonprofit environment
• Familiarity with database management and analytics tools
• Background in arts administration, hospitality, or museum operations

Core Competencies

• Communications and public relations
• Program management
• Organization and schedule management
• Strategic thinking and planning

A Successful Candidate Will Be:

• Well-organized and detail-oriented
• Energetic and self-motivated
• Able to work well with a diverse group of people
• Proactive and adaptable
• A collaborative team player with a transparent work style
• Committed to community engagement

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly compensation ($20-22/hour based on experience)
• Paid holidays and vacation time
• Opportunity to work in a creative, mission-driven environment
• Professional development opportunities in arts administration and nonprofit operations
• Collaboration with regional and statewide arts organizations
• Involvement in high-profile events like the Gloucester Arts Festival

Why Join Us?

At the Cook Foundation, you'll be part of a small, dedicated team making a significant impact on our community's cultural landscape. This role offers unusual variety—you might be supporting exhibition development one day, coordinating financial reports the next, and helping manage our celebrated Arts Festival the following week. If you're proactive, detail-oriented, and energized by the intersection of art and administration, we'd love to hear from you.

Application Process

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and three professional references to [contact information]. In your cover letter, please describe your interest in arts and culture and share an example of how you've successfully managed multiple priorities in a previous role.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The Cook Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our organization. We value diversity at all levels of our workforce and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.