OVERVIEW
Governors Island is a popular year-round destination located in the middle of New York Harbor. For almost two centuries, the Island was closed to the public, operating as a military base for the U.S. Army and, later, the Coast Guard. Today, an award- winning new park is complemented by dozens of unique historic buildings, educational and cultural facilities, a rich arts and culture program and a 22-acre National Monument managed by the National Park Service. Looking ahead, the Island is envisioned to be further activated as a resource for all of New York City, with expanded educational, nonprofit, and commercial facilities. The Trust is currently in the process of expanding the Island’s arts and cultural program, as well as anchoring its growth through attracting a hub of educational and research partners dedicated to addressing the global climate crisis.
POSITION
The Trust for Governors Island seeks candidates to support seasonal programming led by Governors Island Arts, the Trust for Governors Island’s arts and culture program.
The Public Art Event Staff position is an hourly, part-time, seasonal (estimated 6-month term from May 2024 to October 2024) on-site position on Governors Island on an as-needed basis. Reporting to the Trust for Governors Island’s Associate Curator and Producer, the position serves a critical role in supporting Governors Island Arts staff on event days, assisting with event set up and break down (including A/V and sound equipment), operating small sound boards, docent and visitor services duties, greeting talent, green room set up, and more. Event Staff offer the highest level of customer service to all visitors and artists, creating a welcoming environment for everyone. Event Staff will provide onsite staff support for several Governors Island Arts programs including a new Public Art Commission, performances, THIRD Saturday, and House Fest.
Public Art Event Staff shifts vary in times and are typically six – ten hours long, assigned on a first come, first served basis. This position does not have a minimum number of hours guaranteed.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
• Bachelor's degree, Graduate degree, or currently enrolled in a Graduate College program with a focus on Production, Stage Management, Performing Arts Administration, or related fields, or comparable training and vocational education.
EXPERIENCE:
• 1-2 years’ experience in art production, event production,
public programming, arts & culture, event producing, or live
performance.
• Experience operating sound equipment (PA systems, audio
mixers, mics, cables), portable/generator power, and other
production equipment related to small/mid/large-scale
events.
• Familiarity with working with artists.
• Experience working in an outdoor event environment is
preferred.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Greet visitors attending events presented by Governors
Island Arts on Governors Island
• Manage RSVP lists and provide visitors with relevant
information about Governors Island and other Governors
Island Arts events
• Ensure audience engagement and safety protocols are
adhered to
• Notify supervisory staff and/or security staff of any
emergency situations immediately as they occur
• Assist in management of audience capacity as related to
Public Art, performances, and other events
• Answer questions regarding events, RSVPs, and schedules
• Assist in setting up and breaking down events, including
A/V equipment, chairs, tables, extension cords, signage,
etc.
• Comfort setting up and operating sound and lighting
equipment
• Communicate any concerns or activity regarding site safety,
weather conditions, or operational issues
• Complete daily show reports, including daily visitor counts,
and identify unforeseen activity that needs to be
addressed. Make recommendations regarding daily
operation protocols as needed
• Demonstrated interest in public art and Governors Island,
and be comfortable speaking with visitors to share
information and insights on the artwork, presenting
partners, the artist’s practice, Governors Island, and related
historical context
• Ability to respond to unexpected situations and act quickly
to ensure the safety of visitors
• Comfort working in an outdoor environment for long
periods of time and in varying weather conditions
SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Experience working in a theater, venue, museum, art
gallery, or outdoor public space environment
• Ability to work a combination of weekday and weekend
shifts, including holidays, on an as needed basis
• Strong communication skills
• Proficient in using Microsoft Word, Excel, Google suite, and
other similar cloud-based applications
• Valid Driver's License required
• Resident of the greater New York City region
• Ability to move equipment weighing up to 50 lbs
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position during shift
• Proficient in using Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
SALARY: $20 per hour
LOCATION AND SCHEDULE: All positions are located on Governors Island. The position is in-person.
ABOUT THE TRUST FOR GOVERNORS ISLAND
The Trust for Governors Island (The Trust) is a nonprofit corporation created by the City of New York. It is responsible for the redevelopment and operation of 150 acres of Governors Island. The Trust's mission is to realize the full potential of Governors Island, demonstrating a bold vision for public space. For more information, visit www.govisland.org.