Working at ArtCenter

The impact of art and design on the world cannot be denied—from art that serves as commentary on contemporary society or provokes conversation about the human condition, and design that allows a person to shed their physical limitations, to films that entertain the masses and advertising that influences human behavior, today’s artists and designers are innovators, thinkers, futurists, critics and visionaries. At ArtCenter, astonishingly creative and driven students hone their skills, develop their voice and, through our conservatory-like approach to education, become change-makers.

Whether you're a faculty member or service provider working directly with students, or any number of administrators working diligently behind the scenes, all ArtCenter employees benefit from being part of this dynamic, creative community. 

And, regardless of what position you hold, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the governance of the institution, engage with creative learners and educators, and participate in the rich cultural opportunities provided by the College.

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Compensation

We strive to offer competitive salaries to all employees. We regularly engage in a comprehensive market analysis, including surveying like positions, for all staff positions. Faculty compensation levels are set on recommendation from Faculty Council in consultation with the Provost and Executive Cabinet.

Benefits

ArtCenter provides a comprehensive benefits program for Regular Non-Faculty Full-Time employees who work 30 or more hours per week and Full-Time and Part-Time Faculty Employees, subject to the collective bargaining agreement between the Employer and ArtCenter Faculty Federation and have satisfied their waiting period, are eligible for benefits. Coverage is effective on the first of the month following 30 days of employment. For more complete information, including benefit summaries for these plans, contact Employee Experience.

ArtCenter College of Design has a 403(b) Savings Plan in place for both employer and employee contributions. Employees are eligible to defer contributions to the Plan as soon as administratively feasible after they have completed the necessary enrollment procedures provided by Milliman Benefits. Employees become participants in ArtCenter’s contribution portion on the first day of the month coinciding with or next following the attainment of age 21 and completion of 12 months of service. A wide array of investment options is available. Employee deductions may be pre-tax, or post-tax using the Roth option, or a combination of both.

Employer Contributions for Eligible Participants
Safe Harbor Match: ArtCenter College of Design will provide a safe harbor match equal to 100% of your contributions that do not exceed6% of your pay. Save at least 6% to get the full matching contribution.

In addition, ArtCenter provides monetary incentives for ridesharing, carpooling, commuting by public transit, and biking or walking to work. We also offer a tuition remission program that provides benefits to faculty, staff and their dependents.

Employees have the option to purchase voluntary supplemental insurance and long-term care coverage, contribute to a flexible spending account and join a local credit union.

Work-Life Balance

At ArtCenter we believe employees should enjoy a healthy work life balance. We enjoy a casual yet professional work environment, and the work itself can be intense, challenging and fast-paced so we feel it is important that you are provided time to relax and refuel.

Employees are encouraged to take accrued vacation each year (which increases every five years). In addition to paid vacation, employees are able to use paid sick leave for health maintenance (doctor’s appointments, medical tests and screenings) or to recuperate from illness or injury. A portion of your sick leave can be used to accompany a family member to appointments and/or tests. We also know that life is complicated and you may need time during the workweek to attend to personal matters. Because we want you to use your vacation for recreation and relaxation, eligible employees also receive one personal day per month to attend to the requirements of life.

Support for Faculty

Faculty, both full- and part-time, are eligible for a number of College funded grants administered by Faculty Council to pursue special projects or research, support teaching and education, or attend and present at relevant conferences. Comprised of representatives from all academic disciplines, Faculty Council is the official advocacy body of the faculty and part of the shared governance structure of the College.

The Faculty Development Department supports faculty in all aspects of teaching at ArtCenter. It conducts new faculty orientation, assists in developing syllabi and curriculum, provides support for teaching students who are English language learners or who have accommodation requirements, helps faculty develop assessment measures, leads the Faculty Assessment Liaison Cohort and offers all faculty 1:1 classroom consultation and coaching.

Support for Staff

All staff members are encouraged to participate in Staff Council, another shared governance body at the College. Staff Council includes representatives from HR and many other administrative departments. Together, members strive to create an environment where all employees feel valued and empowered, addressing issues related to school policy and campus culture.