Summer Program Coordinator

Idyllwild Arts Summer Programs is a renowned seasonal arts education organization located in the picturesque San Jacinto Mountains of Idyllwild, California. The institution is dedicated to nurturing creativity and artistic development through immersive programs that serve a diverse community of artists across all age groups. Each summer, the program offers a unique blend of workshops, classes, and events designed to inspire and cultivate talent in a range of artistic disciplines. This includes adult programs that focus on professional and recreational artistic pursuits as well as kids and teens programs aimed at fostering growth and engagement in young aspiring artists.

Working with Idyllwild Arts Summer Programs means being part of a vibrant community that thrives on creativity, collaboration, and educational excellence. The organization emphasizes a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, encouraging participants and staff alike to express themselves through various forms of art while building lasting connections. Set against the natural beauty of the mountains, the program offers an unparalleled environment that stimulates artistic innovation and personal growth.

The seasonal position of Summer Program Coordinator is a key role within the organization, responsible for the successful operation and coordination of the summer program's activities. This role demands a dynamic, highly organized, and creative individual who can lead and inspire a small team, ensuring that all program elements run smoothly and meet the high standards expected by both staff and participants. Compensation for this seasonal role ranges from $1200 to $1400 per week, complemented by provided housing and meals to support living and working comfortably on-site from May 31, 2026, through July 31, 2026.

As the Summer Program Coordinator, you will take charge of a dedicated team of 6 to 8 staff members, overseeing the logistical and creative facets of both the Adult Programs and the Kids & Teens Programs. Your leadership will be pivotal in setting the tone for a positive team culture characterized by collaboration and enthusiasm. You will be responsible for delegating daily tasks and supporting staff to efficiently manage the program's varied demands, which range from managing physical spaces such as studios and galleries to designing engaging events and activities for younger participants.

This position requires a hands-on approach with a keen eye for detail, particularly concerning the setup and breakdown of artistic spaces, ensuring all locations are safe, accessible, and adequately prepared for use. Your responsibilities will also extend to managing public presentation areas, guaranteeing that artists and instructors have everything they need to showcase their work effectively and facilitate memorable events.

A critical component of the role involves spearheading the planning and execution of a dynamic activities calendar for children and teenagers. This involves orchestrating large-scale events as well as targeted small group gatherings and spontaneous activities that foster camper engagement beyond the standard curriculum. Your creativity and energy will directly contribute to creating a fun, inclusive environment where campers feel inspired and motivated.

The nature of this role means that you must be adaptable and flexible, prepared to work non-traditional hours including evenings and weekends to accommodate program events and activities. This flexibility is essential to meet the fluctuating demands of running a vibrant, fast-paced summer arts program.

In summary, the Summer Program Coordinator position at Idyllwild Arts Summer Programs is ideal for candidates passionate about arts education and youth engagement, with strong organizational skills and the ability to lead a diverse team. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in an artistic community set in a stunning natural location, combining your love of the arts with program management and event coordination. If you are a motivated, creative leader eager to make a meaningful impact on aspiring artists' summer experiences, this role is an excellent fit.