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Wave Hill Release Gardeners Party2023 Final

Director of Public Programs and Community Outreach

Building immersive programming at the intersection of art & nature

Wave Hill stands at a pivotal moment in its history, having recently celebrated its 60th anniversary and looking toward its next chapter. We seek a creative, mission-driven leader to reimagine and relaunch Wave Hill’s public programs. Reporting to the Chief Philanthropy & Engagement Officer, the Director of Public Programs and Community Outreach will oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs that respond to community interests and needs, welcome diverse audiences, enhance Wave Hill’s visibility, and support earned and contributed revenue through mission-aligned offerings at the intersection of horticulture, education, and the arts.

This role is both strategic and hands-on, combining long-term program vision with active outreach and cross-department collaboration to strengthen Wave Hill as a place of access, inspiration, learning, and belonging.

To Apply

Send resume and cover letter in a single PDF document to careers@wavehill.org. Please state Director of Public Programs in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, and only those receiving an interview will be contacted. 

Community Outreach and Engagement

  • Lead the development and implementation of public programs that prioritize accessibility, inclusion, and responsiveness to community interests and needs.
  • Build and maintain strong, authentic relationships with community groups, nonprofits and cultural partners to co-create programming aligned with mutual goals.
  • Lead proactive outreach initiatives with measurable objectives that expand participation and strengthen engagement through on-site and off-site experiences.
  • Represent Wave Hill at community events, neighborhood forums, and public engagements, serving as a trusted spokesperson and advocate for the organization.
  • Ensure that all programming and engagement practices are culturally competent, inclusive, and welcoming.

Seasonal Programs

  • Design and oversee a portfolio of seasonal programs including theme weekends, workshops, lectures, tours etc. that engage audiences, extend Wave Hill’s reach, and support organizational goals.
  • Collaborate with arts, horticulture, and education staff to shape content, provide logistical support, and ensure multi-dimensional experiences that connect visitors to Wave Hill’s gardens, collections, and mission.
  • Provide strategic oversight and support to ensure cross-departmental alignment for all aspects of program delivery, including scheduling, operations, artist/vendor engagement, and resource allocation.
  • Monitor emerging trends in cultural and garden programming to keep seasonal offerings innovative, distinctive, and relevant.
  • Work with the Director of Marketing and Communications to promote seasonal programs, maximize engagement, and maintain mission and brand alignment.

Budget, Revenue & Financial Management

  • Manage the Public Programs budget, aligning spending with organizational priorities and identifying opportunities to grow earned revenue
  • Forecast costs, track attendance trends, and optimize program pricing to balance financial sustainability with accessibility.
  • Prepare reports evaluating both return on investment and community engagement outcomes, using insights to guide program refinement and growth.
  • Partner with the Philanthropy Department to secure sponsorships, grants, and donations that support seasonal and signature programs.

Leadership, Collaboration & Team Development

  • Lead, mentor, and support the Public Programs team, fostering professional growth, collaboration, and accountability.
  • Build and sustain a positive, inclusive team culture that encourages innovation, learning, and continuous improvement.
  • Facilitate interdepartmental communication, shared planning, and problem-solving to ensure cohesive programming, outreach, and engagement.
  • Collaborate with colleagues across the organization to integrate community interests, mission alignment, and institutional priorities into program design, planning, and long-term strategy.

Schedule and Salary  

Full-time, Monday–Friday. This role requires flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends.

The salary is $100,000 plus benefits including: medical, dental, vision insurance; paid time off; 401k, pension plan and life insurance.  

The hiring salary or salary range is dependent on the scope of work and responsibilities of the position. Salaries offered to candidates are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, skills, training and certifications, education, and other factors in addition to the scope of responsibilities of the specific position. 

Wave Hill is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Wave Hill is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact humanreources@wavehill.org.