About this Role
Full-Time annual salaried position
$50,000–$60,000/year
Based at the Block House
on Governors Island, New York City
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Residency Manager
Introduction
Join a growing non-profit that uses design to address social, physical and environmental inequities in the city.
The Institute for Public Architecture (IPA) is seeking a full-time Residency Manager (RM) to manage programming and facilities at the IPA’s headquarters on Governors Island. The RM is a public-facing position, representing the IPA to the public and serving as a liaison between IPA staff, Fellows, neighboring organizations, Governors Island management and others.
The RM is responsible for planning, coordinating and implementing the IPA’s signature Independent Project Residency and Selected Topic Fellowship, along with all related events, exhibitions and workshops. The RM works closely with Fellows, assisting them with many aspects of their projects and day-to-day activities during active programming.
This is a time of significant growth for the IPA, as we recently expanded to year-round programming in 2023 and continue to expand our program offerings. The RM will have an opportunity to influence the future trajectory of the IPA, with the chance to collaborate with IPA leadership and partners to shape future programming at the Block House.
By joining our small team, the Residency Manager will be exposed to all aspects of non-profit operations and is expected to work independently as well as collaboratively with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to support the IPA’s mission.
This position is based at the Block House on Governors Island in New York Harbor. The RM is offered free year-round housing at the Block House. It is not required to live on-site, but the RM should be located within commuting distance of Governors Island if they choose not to live on-site. The RM is required to be present during internal and public events which are typically held on evenings and occasionally on weekends.
The Institute for Public Architecture (IPA) is seeking a full-time Residency Manager (RM) to manage programming and facilities at the IPA’s headquarters on Governors Island. The RM is a public-facing position, representing the IPA to the public and serving as a liaison between IPA staff, Fellows, neighboring organizations, Governors Island management and others.
The RM is responsible for planning, coordinating and implementing the IPA’s signature Independent Project Residency and Selected Topic Fellowship, along with all related events, exhibitions and workshops. The RM works closely with Fellows, assisting them with many aspects of their projects and day-to-day activities during active programming.
This is a time of significant growth for the IPA, as we recently expanded to year-round programming in 2023 and continue to expand our program offerings. The RM will have an opportunity to influence the future trajectory of the IPA, with the chance to collaborate with IPA leadership and partners to shape future programming at the Block House.
The person who will best succeed in this role:
- Has 2+ years of relevant experience.
- Demonstrates a commitment to the IPA’s mission of addressing inequity in cities through research, design and community outreach.
- Is a relationship builder and strategic problem solver who works well independently and in a small team with minimal guidance.
- Has a background in architecture, urban design, landscape architecture, sustainable design or related disciplines.
Strongly preferred skills:
- Experience and knowledge of the non-profit landscape in New York City.
- Excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills in English, including strong writing and graphic skills.
- Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, Google Nonprofits Suite, and software such as Airtable and Mailchimp.
- Some hospitality experience, including planning and facilitating catered events, fundraisers, and small dinners.
By joining our small team, the Residency Manager will be exposed to all aspects of non-profit operations and is expected to work independently as well as collaboratively with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to support the IPA’s mission.
This position is based at the Block House on Governors Island in New York Harbor. The RM is offered free year-round housing at the Block House. It is not required to live on-site, but the RM should be located within commuting distance of Governors Island if they choose not to live on-site. The RM is required to be present during internal and public events which are typically held on evenings and occasionally on weekends.
Year-Round Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate and plan events, exhibitions, workshops, and internal programming. This includes marketing, developing graphics, managing back-end CRM and event scheduling systems, and the facilitation and documentation of programs.
- Issue and coordinate the Call for Applications for Residency Programs. This includes using Airtable software to collate applications, coordinating with applicants and the Selection Committee, and conducting interviews with selected candidates.
- Maintain the visual and graphic identity of the IPA, including managing the website, social media channels, newsletters (via Mailchimp), and the overall brand of the organization.
- Manage the physical spaces of the Block House, its upkeep and supplies. This includes coordinating with utility, maintenance, delivery and cleaning staff. The RM ensures that the spaces of the Block House are equipped for various programs throughout the year.
- Recruit, manage and delegate tasks to seasonal research assistants, interns and volunteers.
During active Residency Programs (approx. 33 weeks/year):
- Ensure the well-being of Fellows by assuming basic resident advisor duties including addressing Fellows’ basic needs, arranging for Fellows’ arrival by preparing the Block House and conducting an orientation of the facility, helping Fellows stay informed about IPA events and other Island activities, and holding regular meetings with Fellows throughout the program.
- Coordinate and facilitate residency-related internal cohort events such as the Dinner Party Series, Open [Block] House, walking tours, internal project reviews, excursions, and other Fellow outings.
Requirements
- This position is based at the Block House on Governors Island. Although some tasks can be completed remotely, the RM is expected to be present on-site for the majority of programming. If the RM chooses to not reside on-site, they must be located within commuting distance of the Block House.
- Ability to use computer software and communication tools including email, phone and video conferencing software.
- Ability to maintain the physical spaces of the Block House, which may include lifting items up to 25 pounds.
Compensation
- This is a full-time position, commencing on or about May 15th 2024. Applicants must be located in, or willing to relocate to, the New York City region. The salary range for this position is $50,000–$60,000/year, depending on experience.
- Benefits include health insurance and paid time off (vacation, holidays, personal days, sick days).
- Year-round housing is provided at the Block House at no cost. Note that the Island is only accessible by ferry and is vehicle-free with some exceptions. IPA staff receive free ferry rides from Manhattan and access to late-night ferries (ferries generally run 6am–11pm).
To Apply
To apply, please submit this application . You will need to include a resume, contact info for two references and a cover letter (PDF format) detailing your experience and interest. Optionally, you may also include your portfolio and a link to your personal website. Applications are due by February 20, 2024 and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Those received first will be prioritized.
In your cover letter, please specifically address the following questions:
In your cover letter, please specifically address the following questions:
- How your experience is relevant to the position
- Why you are interested in the IPA and its mission
- Your experience with resident advising and/or leadership skills that would advance IPA’s programs
- Your long-term professional goals and how the RA position might help you reach them
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement
We believe a successful organization includes a diverse team of people with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. At the IPA, we are committed to championing diversity, equity and inclusion across all areas of our organization, including our recruitment and hiring practices. We encourage you to apply if you are excited about this position and can see yourself in this role, even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification listed.
The IPA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.
If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please email info@the-ipa.org
The IPA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.
If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please email info@the-ipa.org
About our Residency Programs
The IPA's Residency Program brings together a diverse cohort of architects, designers, artists, urban planners, writers and researchers for a three-month long overnight residency at the Block House on Governors Island. Fellows have the opportunity to work, live and collaborate together in this unique space. Fellows are invited to engage with the many other educational and institutional tenants that occupy the various buildings on Governors Island. ︎︎︎ Learn More
About the IPA
The IPA uses design to challenge social and physical inequities in the city. We address urgent issues of design and policy by mobilizing our network of activists, professionals, government officials and community stakeholders. The IPA's collaborative process involves a focused design residency and related programs. ︎︎︎ Learn More
About Governors Island
Located in the heart of New York Harbor between Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn waterfront, Governors Island is an unparalleled place for cultural practitioners to work. A short ferry ride away from Downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn, the Island boasts 172 acres of public parkland, historic architecture, and panoramic views. It holds a uniquely important place in the history of New York, and is home to a robust cultural program. ︎︎︎ Learn More
Related
Volunteer with the IPA
The IPA is seeking volunteers to help us facilitate programs year-round. Sign up to join our volunteer network and you’ll receive occasional invitations to help.
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