PROJECTS ADMINISTRATOR

Job Description

JOB ANNOUNCEMENTPROJECTS ADMINISTRATORDEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS & SPECIAL EVENTS (DCASE)Finance and Development DivisionNumber of Positions: 1(additional vacancies possible pending budget approval)Starting Salary: $89,1100Applications for this position will be accepted until 11:59pm CST on 11/5/2025All qualified and interested candidates must apply online atwww. cityofchicago.

org/careersThe City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) supports artists and cultural organizations, invests in the creative economy, and expands access and participation in the arts throughout Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. As a collaborative cultural presenter, arts funder, and advocate for creative workers, our programs and events serve Chicagoans and visitors of all ages and backgrounds, downtown and in diverse communities across our city — to strengthen and celebrate Chicago. DCASE produces some of the city’s most iconic festivals, markets, events, and exhibitions at the Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park, and in communities across the city — serving a local and global audience of 25 million people. The Department offers cultural grants and resources, manages public art, supports TV and film production and other creative industries, and permits special events throughout Chicago.

The Projects Administrator position will report to the Deputy Commissioner of the Finance and Development Division and help with the development and implementation of fiscal and administrative policies, processing payments, collecting and reconciling revenue to assist with financial compliance and to help support the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) fulfill its mission. The work will include providing research, evaluation, strategic planning, assessments, and quality standards for the department.

In this capacity, the position will perform the following:ESSENTIAL DUTIESWork with various city departments and agencies, including but not limited to the Mayor’s Office, Law, Budget, Procurement, and Legislative AffairsAssist with interactions in all legislative matters with City Council including the annual DCASE ordinance as well as other departmental issues as required including concessions, permits, and other issues as they arise Run reports on expenditures and create timelines to track multiple projects and compliance and auditing requirements, presentation material, and supporting materials for requested actionsAssist with special projects as directed by the Deputy Commissioner including but not limited to sponsorships for major DCASE events and revenue models to help sustain DCASE events and programmingWork with internal teams to identify and develop event action plans, goals, outcomes, timelines, comprehensive budgetary, fundraising, and marketing and promotional plans for DCASE related programmingAttend programming activities/events, follow up on work assignments, and establish evaluations, methods, and procedures for evaluating completed activities/eventsMaintain professional knowledge and develop new relationships for the exchange of ideas and perspectives by keeping current on industry and government standards and requirements, attending workshops and informational meetings, reviewing professional publications, and continuing partnerships and collaborationsProvide guidance and assistance that are consistent with the overall direction of the department, develop and implement policies and procedures, and research a variety of topics including new programs, grant availability, and professional developmentParticipate in a variety of internal and external meetings involving a range of issues related to regulatory requirements, program offerings, funding statuses, collaborations and partnerships, and participation levelsPerform other related duties as requiredAdditional duties may be required for this positionLOCATION: Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) 78 E Washington St, Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago, IL 60602 HOURS: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday – FridayTHIS POSITION IS EXEMPT FROM CAREER SERVICE. Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSGraduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Public Policy, Arts Administration, Urban Planning, Political Science, Business Administration, Business Law, Finance, Accounting or field of study directly related to the responsibilities of the position. Plus, five years of project management work experience.

SELECTION REQUIREMENTS This position requires applicants to complete an interview which will include a written exercise as part of the interview. The interviewed candidate(s) possessing the qualifications best suited to fulfill the responsibilities of the position, based on the oral and written parts of the interview will be selected. Preference will be given to candidates possessing the following:Master’s degree in Arts Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning, Business Administration, Political Science, Business Law, Finance, Accounting or in a field of study directly related to the responsibilities of the position Previous work experience in public or fiscal policy development, project management or related cultural program management workPrevious work experience in fiscal and fundraising operations and contract negotiations/agreement; preparing, tracking, and monitoring budgets, reviewing financial documentsPrevious work experience in Chicago (or large urban cities) arts and cultural organizations, communities, and/or non-profit sectorsPrevious work experience in communications, including presentations and public speaking, and cultivating relationships with a variety of stakeholdersPrevious strategic planning and leadership experience related to the responsibilities of the positionProficiency with Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Internet)Knowledge: Excellent strategic planning and leadership experience including direct leadership of program professionals and team building.

Considerable knowledge of public policy, and/or government systems and structures. Considerable knowledge of fiscal operations and contract negotiations.

Knowledge of and/or experience in a variety of cultural art genres. Knowledge of local, federal, and state laws, regulations, codes, and policies. Abilities: Demonstrated leadership and management ability.

Demonstrated ability to work effectively in partnership with people of diverse backgrounds. Commitment to working collaboratively. Ability to set priorities and manage multiple tasks.

Ability to negotiate and secure contractual agreements when necessary. Able to use social media to advance and promote programs. Skills: Considerable strategic planning, analytical, assessment, leadership, budgeting, and marketing skills.

Excellent interpersonal skills. Excellent communication, writing, presentation, and public speaking skills. Excellent organizational skills with extreme attention to detail.

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