Nonprofit
Mural Operations Coordinator
Details
Description
ABOUT GROUNDSWELL
For 30 years, Groundswell has used the walls of New York City as a canvas for change. We bring together
professional artists, young people, and community organizations to use art as a tool for social change and to
beautify neighborhoods. Through our signature model, we've completed more than 700 murals across the
five boroughs and engaged thousands of young people, ages 13–24, in the work of art-making and social
justice. Our programs reach 450+ youth each year, primarily from communities that are underrepresented in public dialogue. We partner with schools, community organizations, and city agencies to run arts education studio programs, school-based programs, and large-scale community commissions. The work is rigorous, joyful, and rooted in equity. Groundswell's staff is a group of highly committed, engaged, and empowered individuals who trust in the power of art to connect, grow, and challenge current social norms. If that sounds like the kind of place you want to build something, keep reading.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Mural Operations Coordinator will support Groundswell's mural operations team logistically and administratively. This role supports artmaking operations for Groundswell's studio, school, and community projects — including project supply orders, deliveries/pick-ups, mural preparation, and installation support. The Coordinator reports to the Mural Operations Manager and works closely with studio and school-based program staff to support program participants and teaching artists.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Mural Operations & Installation
- Support the operational launch, maintenance, and close-out of all programs (school, studio, and onsite/offsite murals/commission projects).
- Utilize and help maintain the operations and implementation schedule for multiple simultaneous projects across program divisions.
- Assist with mural installations, including equipment set up/disassembly, priming walls and parachute cloth, and installing parachute cloth fabricated murals onto walls.
- Assist with repairing damaged or vandalized murals as needed.
- Support mural touch-up work in the field and studio as directed.
Facilities, Equipment & Logistics
- Assist with supply order deliveries/pick-ups, parachute cloth mural installations, and overall project supply inventory.
- Support supply donation pick-ups (e.g., Materials for the Arts) in collaboration with the Studio Programs Coordinator and Mural Operations Manager.
- In coordination with the Mural Operations Manager, utilize the rideshare account for transportation of supplies.
- Coordinate with the Mural Operations Manager, Studio Programs team, and Office Manager to schedule use of studio space.
Stakeholder & Partner Coordination
- Ensure a welcoming, safe, and just space for youth, teaching artists, and guests.
- Assist the Mural Operations Manager with operational coordination with all relevant stakeholders regarding supply requests and storage (e.g., school principals, community organizations, teaching artists).
- Communicate respectfully and professionally with school staff, community partners, and youth participants.
Safety, Compliance & Quality Assurance
- Follow all on- and off-site safety protocols, including securing sites per OSHA guidelines (scaffolding and 5-hour OSHA training).
- Help ensure youth and teaching artists adhere to all safety protocols.
- Support the Mural Operations Manager in inspecting mural wall locations for quality assurance and safety.
- Periodically use power tools (e.g., nail gun, circular saw, sanders, jigsaw) to support art project installations, following all safety rules.
Administrative & General Responsibilities
- Complete expense reports accurately and on time.
- Participate in regular staff meetings, program department meetings, and supervision meetings.
- Uphold organizational policies and safety practices.
- Other special projects and assignments as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS
A strong candidate will have at least 2 years of experience in arts, youth, or community-based program settings; experience with project management and/or operations; comfort working with diverse stakeholders; and a strong interest in or experience supporting mural and/or other art installations.
Education, Skills & Experience
- Associate's degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
- 2 years of experience in arts, youth development, or afterschool programs in community-based, school-based, or similar settings.
- Experience managing data and supporting daily program operations.
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal), organizational skills, and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently to meet deadlines and collaborate cross-functionally.
- Commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusion.
- Commitment to youth development and restorative conflict resolution practices.
- Ability to support physically active, hands-on tasks.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel, Teams) and other tools (Zoom, Google Workspace).
- Some prior experience with rolling tower scaffolding and/or aerial lifts preferred; demonstrated willingness to obtain required certifications through on-the-job training.
- CPR/First Aid Certification (required; may be obtained on the job within the first 90 days).
- OSHA Scaffolding Certification (required; obtained on the job within the first 90 days).
- OSHA Aerial Lift (Scissor Lift) Certification (required; obtained on the job within the first 90 days).
Benefits
Groundswell offers a generous benefits package, including:
- Health, Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance.
- Pre-tax Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
- 401(k) Retirement Plan.
- Paid Time Off: 12 Holidays (including Labor Day week and Winter Break between Christmas and New Year's Day); 15 Vacation Days; 8 Sick Days; Summer Fridays.
- Bereavement/Compassion Leave, Family Leave, Sabbatical Leave, and other time off.
- Professional Development Allotment.
Level of Language Proficiency
English fluency
Location
How to Apply
Groundswell invites all qualified applicants to submit a cover letter and resume to resume@groundswell.nyc with the subject line: "Mural Operations Coordinator."
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by October 28, 2026. We encourage early submission. Start date goal: Winter 2026.
Employment with Groundswell is at-will, meaning either party may end the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or advance notice, unless otherwise required by applicable law.
Background Check Notice: Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check in accordance with applicable law, including NYC's Fair Chance Act. Groundswell will consider applicants with prior criminal history in accordance with applicable law.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Groundswell is an equal opportunity employer deeply committed to building a diverse workplace rooted in equity, inclusion, and mutual respect. We believe our mission is strengthened by teams that reflect a broad range of identities, lived experiences, and ways of thinking, and we welcome applicants who share these values. In accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, Groundswell prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. Groundswell provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion or creed, sex, partnership status, status as a victim of domestic violence or stalking and sex offenses, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status, pregnancy, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, disability, genetic information, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, any other historical marginalization, or any other characteristic protected by law. Groundswell complies with all applicable anti-discrimination laws and encourages all qualified individuals to apply.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
Groundswell is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the application and hiring process and in the performance of job functions, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the New York City Human Rights Law, and all other applicable laws. If you require an accommodation, please contact HR@groundswell.nyc.
