Job Description

EPACENTER

Job Description

Director of Program Operations & Productions

Organizational Overview

EPACENTER is a vibrant hub for creativity and cultural engagement, headquartered in East Palo Alto, dedicated to inspiring imagination and activating the creative potential of all who seek greater access to artistic opportunities in San Mateo County. EPACENTER unites individuals of every age through artistic expression, supports career pathways in creative fields, and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of our community.

EPACENTER presents a dynamic range of public programs, including captivating live performances, thought‑provoking exhibitions and installations, stimulating lectures, curated film screenings, and spirited community events. Our comprehensive array of classes in digital, visual, culinary, and performing arts offers abundant opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and the discovery of lifelong passions. Additionally, fellowship programs open doors to rewarding, high‑wage careers within the creative industries.

Designed as an inviting and accessible 25,000‑square‑foot space, EPACENTER is a welcoming gathering spot where people of all abilities explore their talents, engage with inspiring ideas, and flourish creatively.

Position Overview

Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Director of Program Operations & Productions (DPOP) is EPACENTER’s chief architect of delivery, translating each discipline specific artistic vision into seamless, learner‑centered classes and unforgettable public programs. The DPOP oversees the implementation of the full life cycle of educational operations for participants of every age, as well as the planning, technical production, and front-of-house execution of concerts, film screenings, festivals, exhibitions, performances, and one-off activations. Working closely with senior-level artistic administration, the DPOP converts creative concepts into action, focusing on detailed schedules, budgets, staffing plans, and guest experiences that meet the highest standards of safety, equity, and fiscal stewardship. The DPOP partners with Advancement & Communications, Facilities, and Finance to ensure that every class and event advances EPACENTER’s mission or revenue goals.

Core Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee the day-to-day management and implementation of all educational and public programs, ensuring each area functions effectively and achieves its objectives.
• Collaborate with fellow program directors to develop program strategy.
• Implement the overall program strategy and determine operational plans.
• Oversee budgets, personnel, and other resources to ensure efficient and effective program delivery.
• Lead and coordinate teams to ensure seamless execution of program activities.

Program Operations & Educational Delivery

• Build and maintain the master class and program calendar across all age cohorts (K–12, young adults, adults, seniors), ensuring optimal space utilization, instructor availability, and resource allocation.
• Direct registration, enrollment, and customer service processes. Monitor class and program fill rates, attendance, and satisfaction metrics. Implement continuous improvement cycles grounded in participant feedback and data analytics.
• Establish operational policies and procedures, including safety, emergency, and child‑protection protocols, aligned with state and county regulations.
• Work with program division directors on instructor selection and evaluation.
• Oversee instructor onboarding, orientation, scheduling, timesheet/payroll processes, and team-building.

Event Production & Technical Management

• Produce an annual slate of concerts, performances, screenings, talks, festivals, and community events from concept through load‑out, managing production timelines, budgets, technical riders, permits, and vendor contracts.
• Coordinate with facilities, security, concessions, and visitor services teams to deliver smooth front‑of‑house operations, superior audience experience, and post‑event reconciliation.
• Oversee box‑office set‑up, ticketing platforms, and onsite merchandise points.

Budgeting, Reporting & Compliance

• Prepare and manage annual program operations and event production budgets. Track expenditures, revenue, and in‑kind contributions. Deliver monthly variance reports to the Executive Director and Associate Director of Finance and Risk Management.
• Maintain compliance with all relevant OSHA, ADA, insurance, copyright, and performance‑rights requirements.
• Generate data dashboards analyzing class enrollments, event attendance, and earned revenue contribution. Recommend strategic adjustments to meet KPIs.

Team & Vendor Management

• Recruit, train, schedule, and evaluate the program operations team, part‑time production crews, and volunteers.
• Negotiate and oversee contracts with teaching artists, production vendors, A/V technicians, and rental providers. Ensure clear deliverables and adherence to EPACENTER standards.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive culture that centers youth voice, community partnership, and creative experimentation.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Representation

• Serve as the primary operational liaison to artistic directors, ensuring feasibility and resource alignment during project development.
• Partner with Advancement & Communications on donor‑ and guest‑facing events, sponsorship activation, and impact storytelling tied to programs and productions.
• Represent EPACENTER in municipal permitting meetings, industry conferences, and local coalitions focused on arts education and event safety.

Qualifications

• Minimum seven years of progressively responsible experience in program operations, event production, public programs, and arts education within an arts organization, community arts center, museum, theater, or cultural institution with at least five years in a director or department‑head role.
• Demonstrated expertise in cross-departmental project management, budget control, and multi‑venue scheduling.
• In‑depth knowledge of technical production (audio, lighting, staging) and familiarity with California safety, fire, and accessibility codes.
• Experience with learning management or registration platforms, box‑office/ticketing systems, and CRM or data analytics tools.
• Proven ability to collaborate cross‑functionally with artistic, advancement, facilities, and finance teams and to cultivate positive relationships with youth, families, and diverse community stakeholders.
• Exceptional organizational, problem‑solving, and communication skills. Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Bachelor's degree in arts administration or related field required. Advanced degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.

Position Details

Status: Full‑time, 37.5 hours per week. Frequent evening and weekend work required during program cycles and events.

Reports to: Executive Director

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

The role operates across various settings, including offices, classrooms, rehearsal studios, performance venues, and outdoor event sites. Duties require standing and walking for extended periods, lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds, operating audio-visual and lighting equipment, climbing ladders, and working in high-noise environments during load-ins and shows. EPACENTER provides appropriate safety training and will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

Equal Opportunity Employer EPACENTER is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or other protected categories covered by EPACENTER’s nondiscrimination policy.

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