Curator I (3541) - Harvey Milk Photo Center Director - SF Recreation & Parks

About the Harvey Milk Photo Center

The Harvey Milk Photo Center’s Program & Operations Manager is responsible for the overall administration, coordination, and daily management of the Center’s photography programs, public exhibitions, membership services, and facilities. This position oversees hiring and staff support, program planning, equipment maintenance, purchasing and inventory, and the delivery of high‑quality public classes and events. The Director ensures safe, efficient, and professional operations across all Photo Center spaces, including the darkroom, digital lab, studios, and exhibition galleries.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Operations Management: Oversees daily operations of the Center, including purchasing, inventory control, equipment maintenance, supply ordering and pickup, and communication with the Cultural Arts Manager. Maintains a high standard of organization, safety, and professionalism.
• Program Planning and Administration: Plans and manages photography classes and workshops. Coordinates instructor needs, supports curriculum development, and ensures high‑quality programming. Manages program submissions, quarterly planning, and scheduling across the Photo Center.
• Staff Leadership: Responsible for hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, and supervising staff. Sets expectations, assigns work, identifies operational needs, and implements solutions.
• Public Programs and Events: Coordinates public programming including classes, exhibitions, photo talks, receptions, and community events. Represents the Photo Center at public functions and supports community outreach.
• Exhibitions Management: Oversees preparation, planning, installation, hanging, and takedown of exhibits, including the annual member show, community photography exhibitions, the Made at the Photo Center quarterly series, and other special displays. Coordinates artist relations and manages exhibit logistics.
• Safety and Compliance: Maintains equipment, safety, and materials records. Conducts or coordinates health and safety trainings for staff. Ensures proper handling and disposal of photographic chemicals and adherence to all safety protocols.
• Membership Services: Manages a membership base of over 200 members annually, including member support, locker system administration, communications, and general customer service.
• Library Management: Oversees the David Johnson Photo Reference Library, including organization, access management, and materials upkeep.
• Marketing and Communications: Responsible for marketing materials including flyers, posters, and digital graphics. Produces and distributes weekly newsletters featuring events, exhibition announcements, registrations, closures, and operational updates.
• Administrative Responsibilities: Manages renewals and licenses, coordinates with IT for digital lab needs, and oversees program‑related purchasing such as supply replenishment and equipment parts.
• Perform other related duties as assigned. Please note that incumbents in this classification may be required to perform duties as listed in the class specification.

Qualifications

Education: Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in the fine arts, art history, decorative arts, design, history, library science, museum studies, natural history, science, technology or other closely related disciplines.

Desirable Qualifications

• 3 years’ experience managing programs, facilities, or operations in an art, cultural, recreation, or education setting.
• 2 years’ experience supervising staff, instructors, volunteers, or contractors.
• Experience planning and coordinating public programs, classes, or workshops.
• Working knowledge of photography, darkroom processes, and digital imaging.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and operational needs simultaneously.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to lift, carry, or install exhibit materials as part of exhibition setup.
• Background in photography, art administration, or visual arts programming.
• Experience with exhibition design, installation, or gallery operations.
• Graphic design experience for flyers, posters, and electronic newsletters.
• Familiarity with safety protocols related to photographic chemicals and equipment.
• Strong customer‑service skills, especially in community‑focused environments.
• Experience managing memberships or community‑based programs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and transport materials such as photo equipment, exhibition panels, or supply boxes (typically 25–40 lbs).
• Ability to climb ladders and use tools for exhibition installation.
• Ability to stand, walk, or move around the facility for extended periods during events or installations.

Salary

$79,586 - $96,746/year annually