Employment Opportunities

Employment

Founded in 1926, The Count Basie Center for the Arts is New Jersey’s premier center for the cultural arts, dedicated to fostering powerful, inclusive artistic experiences and creative exchange of ideas.

The Basie mission is to inspire, educate and entertain through its distinct and engaging cultural and artistic offerings that reflect the diversity of the region. As a nonprofit organization, the Basie is committed to enriching the community’s quality of life by generating opportunities for participation in the arts, partnering with schools, collaborating with other mission-based organizations, and driving regional economic prosperity.

At the Count Basie Center for the Arts, we have a clear vision: to be the place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come, to stay and do their best work. Our continued pledge to deepen our commitment to cultural competency, racial equity and social inclusion is at the heart of our mission as a nonprofit.

The Count Basie Center currently requires its employees to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, or be subject to weekly, self-obtained PCR testing.

Coordinator – New Jersey Poetry Out Loud

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated candidate to coordinate and support the New Jersey Poetry Out Loud program.

Poetry Out Loud (POL) is a partnership of the National Endowment for the Arts, The Poetry Foundation, and the state arts agencies of the United States. It is a national arts education program that encourages the study of great poetry by offering free educational materials and a dynamic recitation competition for high school students across the country. This program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about literary history and contemporary life.

In New Jersey, this program is carried out through a partnership between the New Jersey State Council on the Arts (State Arts Council) and Count Basie Center for the Arts, in collaboration with regional arts partners.

More information about the program can be found at www.njpol.org.

The NJPOL Coordinator implements the program and reports to Co-Directors at the State Arts Council and Basie Center. The Coordinator will also work closely with regional partners, school administrators, teachers, teaching artists, and students. Because of the many partners involved in the program, strong organizational, communication (both verbal and written), and collaboration skills are essential.

A successful candidate has a positive track record of project management, adhering to budgetary constraints and deadlines. Candidate is self-directed and able to work efficiently with minimal supervision, monitoring program activities and goals, and communicating with stakeholders as needed.

The NJPOL program events and competitions for the 2021 – 2022 season will be held in person, in accordance with state and federal health and safety guidance. Program events will shift to virtual programming if necessary. Daily activities for POL will take place in a hybrid set up, with remote and in-office workdays at both partner locations, pending programmatic need.

Qualifications
• Hold 3-5 years of experience in project management, education program administration, or other relevant experience
• Hold 1-3 years of experience producing or coordinating live or virtual events
• Possess a collegial and collaborative spirit, display flexibility, and prioritize effectively
• Demonstrate the capacity to work effectively with co-directors, collaborate with staff, and oversee the operational and financial well-being of a program
• Demonstrate strong communication skills, both verbal and written
• Demonstrate knowledge of and the ability to work fluidly with technology including MS Office Suite with advanced Excel skills, social media, and web design tools
• Ability and willingness to travel in New Jersey. Possessing a driver’s license and a car is recommended but not required. Mileage is reimbursed

Salary
• This is a full-time, (40 hr. per week) salaried exempt position. This position is eligible for the Basie’s competitive benefits package that includes paid time off (personal, sick, and vacation), insurance (health, dental, vision, life, long- and short-term disability), and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Responsibilities and Duties:

Communications
Manage and maintain program database using customer relationship software and cloud-based file system
Maintain and enhance a system for communication with regional partners, facilitators, school administrators, teachers, teaching artists, students, and the general public about program updates, requirements, deadlines, etc.
Collaborate with the State Arts Council and Basie Center Marketing & Communications team for marketing and outreach efforts, including social media digital content, print media, newsletters, and website presence to promote program awareness and visibility
Collaborate with the Basie Center staff to complete grant-related requirements including grant writing, reporting, budgeting, and evaluation
NJPOL Contest & Workshops
• Create and manage program timeline including competitions, workshops, and state finals
• Coordinate professional development workshops for NJPOL facilitators and participating teachers
• Assist with regional competitions managed by the regional partners and production partners
• Coordinate and manage all aspects of the NJPOL State Finals
• Assist with recruitment and training of contest judges
• Represent NJPOL at events and meetings, as applicable
• In conjunction with NJPOL leadership, draft and disseminate contracts with vendors, venues, teaching artists, competition judges, regional partners, and guest entertainment
Logistics
• The NJ Poetry Out Loud Coordinator position is co-directed by two entities, the State Arts Council and Basie Center.
• The Coordinator shall be an employee of the Basie Center and as such, follow all human resources guidelines outlined by the Basie Center.
• The role will take place in a hybrid set up, with remote and in-office work days at both partner locations, pending programmatic need. The primary office location for the Coordinator is the NJ State Council on the Arts, 33 West State Street, Trenton. Secondary office location is Count Basie Center for the Arts, 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank.
• The position is 40 hours per week. All full-time office personnel working an 8-hour day are entitled to a one-hour break for lunch.
• A willingness and ability to travel long distances within the state may be required. Out of state travel may be required in accordance with State of NJ health and safety protocols.

Applicants should forward a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, and list of references to: Ann Marie Keenan, Human Resources Director, at akeenan@thebasie.org.

Human Resources Assistant (Part Time)
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Reporting to the Human Resources Director, the Human Resources Assistant will perform administrative tasks and services to support effective and efficient operations in the Basie’s Human Resources Department. Our ideal candidate has at least one year of experience in human resources.

Key responsibilities are as follows:

Maintains accurate and up-to-date human resources files, records and documentation
Answers frequently asked questions from applicants and employees relative to standard policies, benefits, hiring processes, etc.
Maintains the integrity and confidentiality of human resources files and records
Sets appointments and arranges meetings
Compiles reports and spreadsheets
Acts as a liaison between the organization and external benefits providers and vendors, which includes health, disability, and retirement plan providers
Posts job ads and organizes resumes and job applications
Schedules job interviews and assists in interview process
Ensures reference checks are completed
Onboard new employees in payroll system
Orients new employees to the organization (setting up a designated log-in, workstation, email address, etc.)
Schedules new employment assessments
Serves as a point person for all new employee questions
Updates and maintains employee benefits, employment status, and similar records
Completes termination paperwork and assists with exit interviews
Assists with the planning and organizing of staff development
Processes incoming mail
Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Associate or Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience)
Prior related office experience preferred
Proficient in Microsoft Office
Must possess strong interpersonal skills
Must be able to communicate clearly, both written and orally
Must be able to prioritize and plan work activities as to use time efficiently
Must be organized, accurate, thorough and able to monitor work for quality
Must be dependable, able to follow instructions and respond to management direction
High ethical standards and ability to exhibit a high level of confidentiality

Applicants should forward a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, and list of references to: Ann Marie Keenan, Human Resources Director, at akeenan@thebasie.org.

Marketing Director
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing, the Marketing Director works hands-on and directs day-to-day marketing functions at the Count Basie Center for the Arts. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Development and execution of marketing plans for all Basie Center live events and initiatives, including concerts, educational offerings and fundraising-related initiatives
Media placement, especially on radio, television and social
Expense tracking across multiple live events and initiatives, ensuring budgets are adhered to and expenses are allocated properly
Evaluation of efforts to ensure execution is creating optimal sales pacing or messaging goals
Collaboration with artist partners and agents to follow prescribed guidelines, i.e.: artist appearance in marketing, management recommendations for marketing spends, etc.
An understanding and creative knack for out-of-box promotional ideas, some which may involve organizational sponsors or media outlets
Keeping up with current trends on social media
Working with design team to create collateral materials, social media graphics and graphics for theBASIE.org
Managing all content on theBASIE.org
Recognizing key players in the centra; New Jersey marketplace, including but not limited to totality of media landscape, influencers, etc.
Other duties as assigned

This is a full-time exempt position in the Count Basie Center Department of Marketing. This position is eligible for the Basie’s competitive benefits package that includes paid time off (personal, sick and vacation), insurance (health, dental, vision, life, long and short-term disability) and a 401(k)-retirement plan.

Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s Degree in marketing or media; majors such as Music Industry or Arts Administration may be considered
3-5+ years of work-related experience
Working knowledge of paid media formats, including but not limited to print, broadcast, television and social, OOH, OTT + emerging platforms
Ability to work remotely
Experience managing a robust website CMS and comfort with learning new skills pertaining to digital signage management
Experience in the nonprofit or live events fields is a must
Strict attention to detail
Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to network and foster relationships is a must
Excellent writing skills and budget tracking abilities
Computer savvy with fluency in both Mac and Windows-related environments, including the Office suite. Adobe design experience a plus.
Working knowledge of popular culture, past, present and future
Some (20%) nights and weekends are a must
An understanding of the entertainment, education and / or nonprofit sectors is very helpful, but not required. The proper candidate can be trained into the Basie Center’s unique environment.
Ability to hustle. The marketing department works hard and plays hard, and our collective goal is to get the job done and have fun doing it.

Applicants should forward a cover letter, resume, salary requirements and list of references to: akeenan@thebasie.org. We regret that we can only contact those candidates whose skill set best matches our needs.

Email, Social & Interactive Marketing Manager
Count Basie Center for the Arts

Reporting to the Marketing Director, the Email / Social / Interactive Marketing Manager assists the Marketing Department on several fronts:

Management of member and patron mailing lists
Segmented dissemination of organizational messaging, including but not limited to event announcements and member presales and other communications
Tracking of email open rates and database management
Organic and paid social media messaging, including but not limited to the Facebook / Instagram / Meta ad platform, Google Ads and new, emerging platforms as necessary
Tracking of paid social efforts and recognition of organic trends, including a working knowledge of best post types, conversions, etc.
Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s Degree in marketing or media; majors such as Music Industry or Arts Administration will be considered
2+ years of work-related experience
Experience with popular email marketing platforms; Mailchimp a major plus
Experience with Facebook Business Manager
Experience with Google Ads
Ability to work remotely
Excellent writing skills
Computer savvy with fluency in both Mac and Windows-related environments
Working knowledge of popular culture, past, present and future
Some (10%) nights and weekends are likely
An understanding of the entertainment, education and / or nonprofit sectors is very helpful, but not required. The proper candidate can be trained into the Basie Center’s unique environment.
Ability to hustle. The marketing department works hard and plays hard, and our collective goal is to get the job done and have fun doing it.

Bartenders

The Count Basie Center for the Arts is hiring experienced bartenders/servers to work in a fun, fast-paced environment. Shifts are typically evenings from 6pm-10pm Experience in an upscale restaurant or busy nightclub atmosphere is highly desired. Scheduling is flexible. Send resumes and at least three references from previous employers to info@thebasie.org.

Security

The Count Basie Center for the Arts is seeking outgoing, service oriented candidates for our Safety & Security Team. Qualified candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in a related field such as EMT, law enforcement, or fire safety. First responders are encouraged to apply. The primary qualities and responsibilities of this position include:

Comply with and enforce Count Basie Center’s Audience Code of Conduct, policies, and post orders.
Provide a visual deterrence by maintaining high visibility at all times.
Encourage and ensure guest safety and a positive experience through proactive personal intervention to resolve altercations or grievances.
Safeguard against theft and property damage.
Conduct detailed observation of people and property within area of responsibility.
Respond to all safety and security calls in a timely and professional manner.
Ability to adapt positively to frequently changing, fluid situations without the loss of efficiency or composure
Ability to stand for 4+ hours
Ability to lift 50lbs

This is a part-time, hourly position. Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to info@thebasie.org. No phone calls please.

Box Office Representatives

The Count Basie Center for the Arts is seeking a motivated, professional, customer service oriented box office sales representative. A box office sales representative is on the front lines for the Count Basie Center — a resource of knowledge for upcoming performances, programs, special events, and an expert in customer service. This is a part-time position and hours will vary based on the venue’s schedule. Box office representatives must be able to work days, evenings, and weekends.

Qualifications: Excellent communication and customer service skills, computer knowledge, and a pleasant phone manner. Previous box office or ticketing software experience is a plus. This is a part time, hourly position.

Interested and qualified candidates should send a cover letter and resume to: info@thebasie.org

Part-Time Piano/ Violin / Cello Instructors – Monmouth Conservatory

The historic Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, NJ is seeking multiple part-time music instructors in areas of Piano/Violin/Cello to work at its renowned Monmouth Conservatory.

This ideal candidate is responsible for teaching private or group music lessons to students of all ages and abilities. The ability to teach beginning students is necessary. This individual must show organizational skills and an ability to effectively communicate with students, parents and staff.

The candidate will teach private or group instrumental lessons while incorporating elements of music theory, instrumental technique, and prepare students for music festivals as well as competitions. The candidate will assist students during ensemble rehearsals; work with administration on lesson scheduling and attend scheduled staff meetings. Prior experience in the Suzuki Method or Dalcroze Eurythmics is preferred.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in music education or performance or equivalent experience. We require that all employees submit to and clear a fingerprint and background check.

This is a part-time, hourly position and does not provide benefits. Pay is commensurate with experience.

Candidates must furnish a complete resume, along with a cover letter summarizing their desire to work for the Basie and the Monmouth Conservatory. These materials should describe previous teaching and performing experiences in all art forms, ages and levels, in private or public studios or schools. Candidates should also list experience with English Language Learners or students with special needs.

Please submit materials to conservatory@thebasie.org. No phone calls, please — candidates whose experience meets our needs will be contacted directly.

Teaching Artists

The Count Basie Center for the Arts Education program is currently seeking qualified and versatile teaching artists to join our expanding programs.

We seek candidates specializing in various genres, including but not limited to dance, hip-hop, cultural dance forms, creative dance and movement, poetry, acting, improv, voice and speech, creative drama, reader’s theater, musical theater, vocal, choir and instrumental instruction, drumming, and more.

Qualifications:

Degree in your art form(s) or relevant experience
At least 2 years of teaching artist experience within a diverse age group and educational settings
Exceptional knowledge of content in your arts genre
Strong communication skills
Classroom management skills
The ideal candidate is someone who has a passion for arts education and can commit to a consistent schedule.
Experience in creative and arts-based pedagogy and practices and/or arts integration
Knowledge of and experience with NJ Student Learning Standards, National Core Arts Standards and/or experience with social emotional learning framework(s)
Experience in Anti-Racist Education, Restorative Justice, and/or culturally responsive pedagogy a desirable
Bilingual a plus

Compensation: Compensation is commensurate with experience.

Application should include the following:

Complete resume
Cover letter summarizing your desire to work for Count Basie Center for the Arts’ Education Program and reflecting on your personal philosophy and approach to teaching the arts. Be sure to include any additional skills you may have that would contribute to your craft.
Narrative describing your teaching experience. Please include all art forms, ages and level, in-school and/or at private studios.
Optional sample lesson plan or narrative on how to successful engage through curriculum or relating to arts enhancement / integration.

No phone calls please. Only candidates considered for an interview will be contacted. Teaching Artists called in for interviews will be asked to prepare and conduct a sample lesson.

Interested and qualified candidates should send their resumes to sgiustiniani@thebasie.org

The Count Basie Center for Arts is an equal opportunity employer which does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex (including pregnancy), marital status, domestic partnership or civil union status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, liability for military service, and mental or physical disability, perceived disability, AIDS and HIV status or any other legally protected status. This policy applies to all employment actions including, but not limited to, recruitment, selection, training, promotion, transfer, layoff, and termination, and job-related social or recreational programs.