City of Oakland - Program Analyst III

About the role

The City of Oakland is seeking a Program Analyst III (Selective Certification - Cultural Funding Coordinator) to join the Economic & Workforce Development Department's Cultural Affairs Division during an exciting period of growth and innovation. This highly visible leadership role supports the Cultural Affairs Manager in advancing strategic initiatives that strengthen Oakland's arts and cultural ecosystem through grantmaking, fundraising, policy development, program implementation, contract and budget oversight, and community partnerships. The position also plays a central role in supporting the Cultural Affairs Commission by coordinating meeting logistics, preparing agendas and reports, managing communications, and ensuring effective administration.

What we are looking for

• Mission-driven and culturally grounded – Passionate about advancing arts, culture, and equity, with a deep appreciation for Oakland's diverse cultural landscape.
• Experienced in grant development and administration – Demonstrated expertise in designing, writing, managing, and reporting on grant-funded programs, including overseeing full grant cycles from application through implementation, compliance, and evaluation.
• Collaborative and relationship-oriented – Builds and maintains strong partnerships with artists, cultural organizations, funders, and community stakeholders across Oakland and the broader Bay Area.
• Strategic and adaptable – Thrives in evolving environments, embraces change, and is excited to help rebuild and strengthen funding strategies while launching new initiatives and pilot programs.
• Experienced in managing and leading teams – Experienced in supervising staff, mentoring team members, and fostering a supportive, accountable, and high-performing team environment.
• Data-driven and analytical – Skilled at interpreting and presenting data to inform decision-making, evaluating program impact, and communicating results to diverse stakeholders.
• Poised and diplomatic – An engaging and polished public speaker who can independently represent the Division at conferences, community events, public meetings, and high-level events, while also serving as a partner to the Cultural Affairs Manager in shared presentations, meetings, and external engagements.

Responsibilities

• Serving as a liaison and representing the Division publicly – Build relationships with community stakeholders and represent the Cultural Affairs Division at meetings, events, and conferences. Serve as a visible and trusted ambassador for the City. Manage public facing communications through social media and e-newsletters with support from Program Analyst II staff.
• Leading and managing key cultural programs and initiatives – Plan, implement, and continuously improve programs that support Oakland's artists, cultural organizations, and creative communities, including new pilot efforts.
• Developing and managing funding and grants – Independently, and in partnership with the Cultural Affairs Manager, lead both grant making and grant writing activities, including identifying and pursuing external funding opportunities; research, develop, write and manage grant proposals; and design, administer, and evaluate grant programs that distribute funding to artists, cultural organizations, and other eligible recipients. Support broader fundraising and resource-development efforts to expand funding for Oakland's arts and culture programs.
• Overseeing contracts and program budgets – Manage contracts with artists, organizations, and partners; monitor budgets and expenditures; and help ensure funds are used effectively and in compliance with City requirements.
• Analyzing and preparing data and reports – Track program outcomes, analyze data, and prepare clear, compelling reports and presentations for City leadership, boards, funders, and the public.
• Supervising and supporting staff – Directly manage Program Analyst II staff and oversee interns, administrative staff, and other assigned team members by setting priorities, providing guidance, and supporting professional development.
• Supporting division strategy and leadership – Work closely with the Cultural Affairs Manager to advance strategic goals, shape new initiatives, and help guide the Division's overall direction during a period of rebuilding and growth. In partnership with Program Analyst II staff, manage the administrative support for the Cultural Affairs Commission, including coordinating agendas and meeting materials, collecting and organizing submissions, and preparing reports, updates, and presentations for Commission meetings and related bodies.