Maine College of Art (MECA) invites applications for a Director of the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies at MECA with duties commencing on May 1, 2020 but no later than July 1, 2020.

Position Summary + Responsibilities

The Director’s primary responsibility is to provide leadership for the Salt Graduate Certificate, develop curricula and/or new programs or tracks, develop and lead workshops within Salt, and support recruitment of new students. This year-round faculty appointment is at the rank of assistant or associate professor with teaching and administrative duties.

The Director, along with Salt faculty, will continue Salt’s legacy of training ethical, powerful storytellers in the areas of radio, short film, multimedia, photography and writing. Salt aims to increase the range of perspectives from which stories are told. The Salt Diversity Fellowship, offered to students applying to the program each term, exists to support this value, and we strongly encourages candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds to apply for the directorship.

The College invites applicants with extensive experience in the areas of radio, podcasting, or digital storytelling. The successful candidate will teach documentary storytelling for radio/audio/podcasting while working with faculty to create a powerful and immersive experience for all Salt students. The Salt curriculum includes pre- and post-production, and writing for radio and/or short film/multimedia, as well as editing, field recording, and interviewing. Salt faculty ensure that students understand both the appropriate ethics of documentary work and the professional requirements of their field.

Engaged teaching, a commitment to community, and individualized attention are hallmarks of a MECA education. A commitment to graduate and undergraduate teaching is essential, as is innovation and versatility. MECA’s educational philosophy, which consists of Studio, Agency, Place, Community, and Ethics is the backbone of all our programs.

The Director will teach courses primarily in the Salt Institute. Other responsibilities include faculty-hiring and evaluation, mentoring, curricular development, and institutional service activities.

The Director reports to the Associate Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies.

Qualifications

A demonstrable record of significant documentary work is required. A Master’s is preferred and a baccalaureate is required.

Excellence in teaching, an active professional practice, and a record of professional accomplishment as demonstrated by publication, presentation and/or performance are essential.

The successful candidate will be a dynamic teacher, creative colleague and holistic thinker; they will demonstrate the ability to work in a collaborative environment and create a positive and engaging learning environment between students and faculty alike.

Compensation + Benefits

Compensation ranges from $50,000 to $65,000 based on credentials, experience and rank. A comprehensive benefit package is offered, including health, dental, vacation, sick and retirement benefits.

Application Procedure

Candidates who submit their materials by March 31, 2020, are assured full consideration. Applications will be accepted until a hire is made. Application materials must be sent digitally in a single PDF, not to exceed a 25MB file size. Please email the document to employment@meca.edu. Place “Salt Search: [Your Name]” in the subject line. The PDF must include:

1. an application letter which describes how the candidate’s experience, accomplishments and qualifications intersect with the listed position description;
2. a curriculum vitae;
3. a diversity statement;
4. a one page teaching philosophy
5. portfolio or suitable weblink to representative work and, if available, student work
6. a list of five references with contact information.

Finalists must agree to a background check.

Maine College of Art recognizes that diversity is integral to the academic experience and strives to foster an inclusive culture defined by respect, equity and social responsibility. Successful candidates will have demonstrated experience in working with diverse populations, and supporting an inclusive and equitable community. Maine College of Art does not discriminate on the basis of gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, HIV status, race, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, or military/veteran’s status in its educational programs, admissions policies, employment policies, financial aid, or other College administered programs. Candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

About the Salt Institute of Documentary Studies

In 1973, high school English teacher Pamela Wood founded Salt in Kennebunk, Maine, as a place to teach students how to become photographers, writers and, most of all, ethical storytellers. Salt evolved into a program offering four tracks: Documentary Radio, Documentary Photography, Short Documentary Film, and Documentary Writing/Creative Non-fiction. Salt’s commitment to teaching ambitious students on how to become truthful, thorough, and creative documentarians has never wavered. On April 8, 2016, the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies became part of Maine College of Art. MECA is committed to carrying on the 40+ year tradition of Salt’s unique educational experience.

Position Summary

Maine College of Art (MECA) seeks a collaborative and knowledgeable individual to serve as a part-time Diversity, Racial Equality, & Inclusion Officer, joining our group of committed faculty and staff who are passionate about art, education, and community.

In 2017, 19.1% of MECA’s undergraduate and graduate students identified with an ethnicity and/or race that was non-white/European-American. MECA is working towards ensuring our students thrive during their academic career at the college, both within the MECA campus and in the city of Portland. The Diversity, Racial Equality, & Inclusion Officer will be supported as a leader at MECA, modeling guidelines for engagement around diversity, racial equity, and inclusion as outlined by MECA’s Diversity Statement and Compact. This role will continue to move forward initiatives and develop strategies to address intersectionality; representation in the arts and art history; and establish a culture of accountability. The Officer will also facilitate conversations between faculty and students as needed, as well as between faculty and staff members as needed.

The position is part-time (three days a week) for the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 academic years, working nine months a year with summers off. Reporting to the President, the officer will work closely with the Vice President of Academic Affairs, Co-Chairs of MECA’s Diversity Committee, and the Director of Student Life to establish immediate priorities.
The position is funded in part by a grant from The Crewe Foundation in conjunction with Indigo Arts Alliance (IAA), an arts incubator in Portland, Maine, founded and created for professional and emerging artists of African descent with an open door to all people of color. BFA and MFA students and alumni will have opportunities to partner with incoming artists as mentees and interns. This position will work with MECA staff to manage administrative needs for both the College and IAA related to the collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Promote and drive adoption of diversity and inclusive practices; establish key initiatives that are tailored to advance MECA’s diversity and inclusion goals;
• Align DEI objectives to support MECA’s strategic plan;
• Design and source educational workshops and tools to support facility, staff, trustees, and students, working in partnership with the MECA Diversity Committee and the Human Resources Director;
• Serve on MECA’s Diversity Committee as well as Strategic Plan Workgroup;
• Guide Admissions and Marketing on creating content and material to ensure diversity and inclusion best practices;
• Work with Indigo Arts Alliance (IAA) to meet grant parameters;
• Collaborate with Advancement office to raise additional funding for IAA grant;
• Drive external partnerships with community and nonprofit organizations to advance inclusion and equity in the local community where MECA is based;
• Remain current with and share leading best practices on DEI initiatives;
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.

Experience

• 3+ years experience leading DEI programs required;
• Experience in higher education and specifically with graduate and/or professional programming preferred;
• Experience with community outreach preferred.

Skills & Responsibilities

• Excellent project management skills and experience with/understanding of change management principles;
• Strong knowledge of diversity metrics, research and analytics;
• Ability to handle multiple projects and to prioritize effectively; agility/flexibility/resilience;
• Excellent communication, influencing and leadership skills to embed DEI principles throughout the organization;
• Demonstrated ability to translate best practices and research into tangible, pragmatic outcomes underpinned by metrics/key performance indicators.

Application Procedure

Applications will be reviewed beginning immediately and will be accepted until a hire is made. Application materials must be sent digitally in a single PDF, not to exceed a 25MB file size. Please email the document to employment@meca.edu. Place “DEI Position [LastName FirstName]” in the subject line.

The PDF must include:

1. an application/cover letter which describes how the candidate’s experience, accomplishments and qualifications intersect with the listed position description;
2. a resumé/curriculum vitae;
3. a diversity statement;
4. a list of five references with contact information, one of which should be a student.

Finalists must submit all college transcripts and agree to a background check.

Maine College of Art recognizes that diversity is integral to the academic experience and strives to foster an inclusive culture defined by respect, equity and social responsibility. Successful candidates will have demonstrated experience in working with diverse populations, and supporting an inclusive and equitable community. Maine College of Art does not discriminate on the basis of gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, HIV status, race, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, or military/veteran’s status in its educational programs, admissions policies, employment policies, financial aid, or other College administered programs. Candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Position Summary

The Lead Program Coordinator is a live-on position that will supervise all aspects of the co-curricular experience for approximately 100 high school students enrolled in the three (3) week summer Pre-College Program. This includes managing the residential experience, all non-academic programming, supervising the Resident Assistants, enforcement of College policy, 24/7 on-call and emergency response responsibilities for the duration of the program, supporting academic components, and working with MECA faculty and staff as needed. The Lead Program Coordinator also works directly with the Pre-College Program Coordinator.  Download the job description here.

Job Type:  Full time, Live-in position for 9 Weeks

Dates of appointment: June 1 – July 31, 2019, must be available for conference calls every other week starting in May

Job Responsibilities

Program Coordination (25%):

• Actively participate in Pre-College Program Coordinator training prior to arrival of the Resident Assistant (RA) staff
• Be on call for the three (3) weeks of the program including night and weekend hours, serving as the primary on-call responder for one (1) of the weeks
• Maintain an active presence with the Pre-College students in the residential community
• Counsel and advise students and refer to campus or community resources as necessary
• Assess the activities and experience of the Pre-College students and develop a summary of the program before the end of the position appointment.
• Work in close collaboration with the Lead Program Coordinator on all aspects of the job

Administrative (25%):

• Maintain the Pre-College activities budget
• Plan and facilitate move-in day, Pre-College Orientation, and move-out for Shepley, which is expected to hours approx. 30 students
• Attend weekly faculty meetings to address student concerns for Shepley 
• Work with Student Life Professional Staff to coordinate administrative functions of the program including keys, Room Inspection Forms, and facilities needs for Shepley
• Document and report all non-emergency conduct issues, student concerns, and facilities issues to appropriate departments in a timely manner
• Serve as the secondary student conduct hearing officer for Pre-College students.

Programming (20%)

• With the support of the Resident Assistants, plan and implement programming for the Pre-College students with a balance of educational and social opportunities, including nights and weekends
• Plan and maintain the activities calendar of the Pre-College schedule
• Coordinate details of co-curricular programming such as transportation, signage, and supplies

Supervision (25%)

• Directly supervise, train, and evaluate eight (2) Pre-College Resident Assistants
• Plan and facilitate Pre-College RA training
• Ensure effective RA job performance by providing regular one on one meetings, follow up on issues or concerns, and providing feedback to Resident Assistants regarding performance
• Lead RA staff meetings, as necessary, to clearly and effectively disseminate information
• Be the primary liaison between RA staff and Continuing Studies, Student Life, and other MECA departments

Student Life Initiatives (5%)

• Assist Student Life Staff in prepping additional initiatives for the academic year

Job Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Strong skills and experience in programming and event planning
• Be able to communicate effectively with a variety of people including high school students, student staff, parents, colleagues, and faculty
• Ability to be flexible, adaptive, positive, and commitment to creating an inclusive community
• Working knowledge of Google Docs
• Valid driver’s license for the duration of the position appointment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Enrollment in or completion of a graduate level program at an accredited college or university
• Understanding and/or appreciation of art and design
• Experience with counseling, mentoring, or advising
• Previous residence life experience

Compensations & Benefits

$5,000, plus all meals during Pre-College program

Application Procedure

Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and until the position is filled.

In one PDF file not to exceed 25MB, please submit:

1. an application letter that describes how the candidate’s experience, accomplishments, and qualifications intersect with the position;
2. a resumé; and
3. a diversity statement.

Attach the PDF to an email and send to studentlife@meca.edu. Place “PC Lead: [Your Name]” in the Subject Line.

Maine College of Art does not discriminate on the basis of gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, HIV status, race, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, or military/veteran’s status in its educational programs, admissions policies, employment policies, financial aid, or other College administered programs. Candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Position Summary

The Program Coordinator is a live-on position that will supervise all aspects of the co-curricular experience for approximately 100 high school students enrolled in the three (3) week summer Pre-College Program. This includes managing the residential experience, all non-academic programming, supervising the Resident Assistants, enforcement of College policy, 24/7 on-call and emergency response responsibilities for the duration of the program, supporting academic components, and working with MECA faculty and staff as needed. The Program Coordinator also works directly with the Pre-College Lead Program Coordinator. Download the job description here. 

Job Type:  Full time, Live-in position for 9 Weeks

Dates of appointment: June 1 – July 31, 2019, must be available for conference calls every other week starting in May

Job Responsibilities

Program Coordination (25%):

• Actively participate in Pre-College Program Coordinator training prior to arrival of the Resident Assistant (RA) staff

• Be on call for the three (3) weeks of the program including night and weekend hours, serving as the primary on-call responder for one (1) of the weeks

• Maintain an active presence with the Pre-College students in the residential community
• Counsel and advise students and refer to campus or community resources as necessary
• Assess the activities and experience of the Pre-College students and develop a summary of the program before the end of the position appointment.
• Work in close collaboration with the Lead Program Coordinator on all aspects of the job

 

Administrative (25%):

• Maintain the Pre-College activities budget
• Plan and facilitate move-in day, Pre-College Orientation, and move-out for Shepley, which is expected to hours approx. 30 students
• Attend weekly faculty meetings to address student concerns for Shepley 
• Work with Student Life Professional Staff to coordinate administrative functions of the program including keys, Room Inspection Forms, and facilities needs for Shepley
• Document and report all non-emergency conduct issues, student concerns, and facilities issues to appropriate departments in a timely manner
• Serve as the secondary student conduct hearing officer for Pre-College students.

 

Programming (20%)

• With the support of the Resident Assistants, plan and implement programming for the Pre-College students with a balance of educational and social opportunities, including nights and weekends
• Plan and maintain the activities calendar of the Pre-College schedule
• Coordinate details of co-curricular programming such as transportation, signage, and supplies

 

Supervision (25%)

• Directly supervise, train, and evaluate eight (2) Pre-College Resident Assistants
• Plan and facilitate Pre-College RA training
• Ensure effective RA job performance by providing regular one on one meetings, follow up on issues or concerns, and providing feedback to Resident Assistants regarding performance
• Lead RA staff meetings, as necessary, to clearly and effectively disseminate information
• Be the primary liaison between RA staff and Continuing Studies, Student Life, and other MECA departments

 

Student Life Initiatives (5%)

• Assist Student Life Staff in prepping additional initiatives for the academic year

Job Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Strong skills and experience in programming and event planning
• Be able to communicate effectively with a variety of people including high school students, student staff, parents, colleagues, and faculty
• Ability to be flexible, adaptive, positive, and commitment to creating an inclusive community
• Working knowledge of Google Docs
• Valid driver’s license for the duration of the position appointment

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Enrollment in or completion of a graduate level program at an accredited college or university
• Understanding and/or appreciation of art and design
• Experience with counseling, mentoring, or advising
• Previous residence life experience

Compensations & Benefits

$4,000, plus all meals during Pre-College program

Application Procedure

Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and until the position is filled.

In one PDF file not to exceed 25MB, please submit:

1. an application letter that describes how the candidate’s experience, accomplishments, and qualifications intersect with the position;
2. a resumé; and
3. a diversity statement.

Attach the PDF to an email and send to studentlife@meca.edu. Place “PC Coordinator: [Your Name]” in the Subject Line.

Maine College of Art does not discriminate on the basis of gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, HIV status, race, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, or military/veteran’s status in its educational programs, admissions policies, employment policies, financial aid, or other College administered programs. Candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Position Summary

This full-time, 12 month position, provides financial administrative support to the Business Office Staff.

Job Responsibilities

• Student Accounts: 
  • Federal Perkins Loan Program – interface with the third party vendor in matters of billing and policy, collections, and negotiated settlements.  Record federal loan consolidation;.
  •  Manage past due account collections for current students and collection activity for former students. Includes assigning accounts to collection agencies, negotiating settlements and maintaining timely reports on collection activity.  Working with Third Party collection vendors and tracking bad debt write-offs;
  • Organize monthly student accounts receipts and journal entries for misc. income and charge;.
  • Reconcile each semester and year end Housing, Meals Plans & MECA bucks between Jenzabar and Blackboard to ensure proper charges and clear out balances at year end.
• Receipting and processing of deposits for Square Sales and Sales Taxes;
• Check clearing and fringe benefits allocation to support the Accounting department;
• Accounts Payable support: Entering vendor invoices, processing checks;
• Fulfilling Online Merchandise orders, maintaining inventory, including Moth Press;
• Business Office support with, various projects as assigned.

Job Qualifications

• Minimum of an Associate’s Degree, Bachelor’s preferred.

Experience

• 3-5 years Accounts Receivable and/or Accounting related experience;
• Proficiency with MS Office Products (Word, Excel, etc.);
• Proficiency with Google Products (Sheets, Docs, Gmail, etc) preferred
• Prior experience in higher education and/or familiarity with Federal financial student aid preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Customer service as well as detail oriented;
• Strong organizational abilities;
• High level of both written and verbal communication skills;
• Ability to work as part of a team in addition to working independently; 
• Problem solving abilities with analytical and critical thinking skills.  
• A working knowledge of general accounting rules, accounts receivable and accounts payable procedures and best practices

Application Procedure

Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and until the position is filled.

In one PDF file not to exceed 25MB, please submit:

1. an application letter that describes how the candidate’s experience, accomplishments, and qualifications intersect with the position;
2. a resumé; and
3. a diversity statement.

Attach the PDF to an email and send to employment@meca.edu. Place “Business Office Assistant: [Your Name]” in the Subject Line.

Maine College of Art does not discriminate on the basis of gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, HIV status, race, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, or military/veteran’s status in its educational programs, admissions policies, employment policies, financial aid, or other College administered programs. Candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply.