Artistsreenvisioningtomorrowinc

Operations & Program Assistant 

Peoria, IllinoisSalary, ExemptPosted Jul 4, 2026

Position Overview 

The Operations & Program Assistant provides high-energy, detail-oriented support to ART INC’s Chief Operations & Programs Officer. This role ensures smooth coordination across all programs, sites, and events — helping ART INC deliver trauma-informed, high-impact arts, education, and workforce programs for youth and families. 

The ideal candidate thrives in fast-moving environments, enjoys working with young people, and can anticipate needs before they arise. They must be comfortable engaging with diverse children & youth populations, and individuals who may have experienced trauma, ages 7-24. 

 

Core Responsibilities 

1. Program & Youth Support 

  • Assist with daily operations of ART INC’s three flagship programs: ASALA, Pathways to College or Careers, and SOLVE, as well as youth leadership and enrichment events and smaller programs. 
  • Help coordinate attendance, supplies, set-up, and documentation for after-school and weekend programming. 
  • Maintain positive, professional, and supportive interactions with students, families, and teaching artists. 
  • Serve as a calm, consistent adult presence during programming modeling ART INC’s trauma-informed, youth-centered values. 

2. Operations, Budget & Grant Support 

  • Assist the COPO with grant and budget management including organizing receipts, tracking expenditures, and maintaining
    accurate spending records.
     
  • Support compliance by ensuring financial documentation and reports are completed on time. 
  • Help the COPO stay on schedule with grant deliverables, budget deadlines, and related administrative tasks. 
  • Maintain organized digital and paper files for program and grant reporting. 
  • Monitor and restock supplies, assist with purchasing, and manage program inventory. 

3. Administrative & Scheduling Support 

  • Coordinate calendars, schedule meetings, and prepare materials for internal and external stakeholders. 
  • Support communication across departments to ensure timely follow-through and task completion. 
  • Handle correspondence, print materials, and maintain organized systems for documentation. 

 

4. Event & Logistics Coordination 

  • Help plan and execute community events, field trips, and student showcases. 
  • Coordinate logistics, setup, supplies, and volunteer support. 
  • Work collaboratively with the operations and marketing teams to ensure events run seamlessly and reflect ART INC’s professional standards.



Project & Manager Support

  • Assist the COPO in coordinating project management across all program areas and departments she oversees. 
  • Help ensure Program Managers and other direct reports stay on track with deliverables, deadlines, and reporting requirements. 
  • Maintain shared project boards, timelines, and follow-up systems (e.g., Kanban, BambooHR, or shared spreadsheets) to keep tasks moving forward. 
  • Prepare weekly status updates or summary notes to brief the COPO on progress, challenges, and next steps. 
  • Track meeting outcomes and follow up with responsible staff to ensure accountability and completion. 
  • Support the COPO in organizing team huddles, retreats, and cross-department meetings to strengthen alignment and communication. 

 

Qualifications 

  • Associate’s degree or equivalent experience in youth development, education, arts administration, or nonprofit operations. 
  • Minimum one year of experience supporting programs or administrative functions in a nonprofit, school, or youth organization. 
  • Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting. 
  • Strong interpersonal communication and teamwork skills. 
  • Comfort working with Black and brown youth and families from diverse backgrounds. 
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and composure in challenging or emotionally charged situations. 
  • Flexible schedule, including occasional evenings or weekends for events. 

 

Key Attributes 

  • Mission-driven with deep belief in ART INC’s purpose. 
  • Self-starter who anticipates needs and follows through without constant supervision. 
  • Calm under pressure; able to problem-solve quickly and maintain professionalism. 
  • Compassionate, culturally competent, and committed to equity and inclusion. 

 

Physical Requirements 

  • Must be able to stand, walk, and move throughout the building during program hours. 
  • Able to lift up to 25 lbs. for event setup when needed. 

 

Success Looks Like 

  • Programs operate seamlessly, with all logistics handled in advance. 
  • Youth feel seen, supported, and safe. 
  • The COPO is fully supported and able to focus on strategic leadership. 
  • Communication across teams flows smoothly — with clarity, follow-through, and shared accountability. 

 

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