Art Education Specialist - Flint Institute of Arts

Posted on 6/6/25

Department: Education

Reports to: Director of Education

Employment Type: Full-Time, Overtime Exempt

Location: On-site at the Flint Institute of Arts, Flint, MI

Schedule: 8-hour shifts, with some evenings and weekends required

Position Overview

The Flint Institute of Arts (FIA) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Art Education Specialist to join its Education Department. This full-time position is ideal for a seasoned art educator with a strong classroom or museum education background and a well-developed teaching practice. deep background in early childhood education to join its Education Department. This full-time position is ideal for a dedicated educator with a strong foundation in child development, creative learning strategies, and the integration of visual arts into early childhood pedagogy.

The successful candidate will bring a passion for education, a collaborative spirit, and specialized skills that will enhance and expand the FIA’s educational offerings.

The Art Education Specialist will help lead and support a variety of programs, including PreK–12 and adult outreach, gallery learning experiences, studio-based instruction, homeschool and after school initiatives. Candidates should bring advanced expertise in one or more of the following: ceramics, drawing, painting, design, sculpture, textiles, printmaking, photography, art history, curriculum development, classroom management, museum fi eld trip design, early childhood development or K-12 arts integration.

This is an opportunity to play a vital role in shaping the museum's educational direction and delivering accessible, engaging, and community-centered learning experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching & Program Delivery

• Develop and implement engaging, standards-aligned lesson plans for PreK–12, adults, and multigenerational learners.
• Provide instruction in both studio and gallery settings across a wide range of 2D and 3D media.
• Foster a creative, inclusive, and respectful classroom environment that supports curiosity and artistic exploration.
• Adapt instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including those with physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities, and individuals with memory loss, low vision, or hearing loss.
• Collaborate on the development and delivery of sensory-informed and accessible educational experiences.

Collaboration & Community Engagement

• Work with fellow educators, departments, and community partners to co-create relevant and impactful programs.
• Deliver in-person outreach programs in schools and community spaces.
• Design and lead museum fi eld trips that are interactive, age-appropriate, and aligned with school curricula.
• Communicate effectively with classroom teachers, caregivers, and community members to support learner progress.

Studio & Event Support

• Maintain, clean and organize studio spaces, equipment, and materials for safety and efficiency.
• Assist the Director of Education in the planning, delivery, and evaluation of departmental programs.
• Contribute to special events, collaborative projects, and cross-departmental initiatives.
• Engage in professional development to stay current with trends in museum education, pedagogy, accessibility, and studio practice.

Qualifications

Required

• BA, BS, or BFA in Art Education, Fine Arts/Design, Education, or Museum Studies from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of relevant teaching experience, ideally in K–12 or museum settings.
• Advanced knowledge of studio art practices, materials, and instructional techniques.
• Foundational understanding of art history and its integration into meaningful learning.
• Demonstrated expertise in classroom management, lesson planning, and differentiated instruction.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and accessibility in education.

Preferred

• Michigan K–12 Teaching Certificate (current or past).
• MA in Visual Art, Design, Education, or Museum Studies.
• Experience in informal learning settings such as museums, community arts programs, or afterschool initiatives.
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities are a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Driving: Transportation to and from Outreach locations.
• Sitting/Standing/Walking: Approximately 70% of time is spent standing or moving around work areas. Balance of time (approximately 30%) is spent seated while working at a desk.
• Lifting/Carrying/Pushing/Pulling: The ability to lift and carry weights up to 20 pounds.
• Stooping/Kneeling: The ability to stoop and kneel is necessary for accessing supplies and other tasks.
• Reading/Handling: Good manual dexterity is necessary for computer keyboard use and for retrieving and working with appropriate paperwork, equipment, and supplies.

Work Environment & Benefits

The Flint Institute of Arts offers:

• Competitive salary range - $40,000 - $65,000
• Full medical insurance
• Partial dental and vision coverage
• Life insurance and retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Flexible schedule
• Ongoing professional development opportunities

We are committed to fostering a workplace where all voices are valued. The FIA Education Department encourages openness, shared problem-solving, and creative exploration. We believe in an environment where staff feel supported, respected, and empowered to grow.

To Apply

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to: Email: education@flintarts.org

Mail: Education Department Flint Institute of Arts 1120 East Kearsley Street Flint, MI 48503

No phone calls, please.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The Flint Institute of Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the State of Michigan, it is the policy of the Flint Institute of Arts to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship.