Full- and Part-Time Positions
Executive Director, Robert Rauschenberg Foundation
Job Descriptions
REPORTING TO: Chief Operating Officer
DEPARTMENT: Administration
LOCATION: New York City
The Robert Rauschenberg Foundation (“Foundation”) expands the legacy of artist Robert Rauschenberg (1925–2008) who believed strongly in the power of art as a catalyst for social change. The Foundation delivers on its mission through ongoing research and support for exhibitions, while sustaining the well- being of innovative artists and the work of socially engaged institutions that embody the same risk-taking, inclusive, and multidisciplinary approach that Rauschenberg exemplified in both his art and philanthropic endeavors. The Foundation primarily supports small to midsize arts and socially engaged organizations that are contrarian and experimental, even courageous, in driving towards equity. In addition, the Foundation amplifies the creative life of artists and scholars across the disciplines through residencies, commissions, and accessible public platforms. Finally, the Foundation supports research, exhibitions, publications, academic partnerships, and special projects across the globe that promote the legacy of Rauschenberg’s joyful, responsive, and irreverent approach to making work while living an empathetic and meaningful life.
POSITION SUMMARY
RRF has a long history of hiring engaged, productive employees, and we’re looking for a human resources (HR) manager to continue this tradition. The ideal candidate will have experience in HR or employee recruitment, with a thorough understanding of HR policies and procedures. The bulk of the role will involve employee orientations, benefits administration, compensation, rewards, and conflict resolution, and there is great opportunity for developing and refining systems. We’re eager to find a human resources manager who connects easily with people and has a detail-oriented mindset for handling the dynamic nature of today’s workforce. The HR Manager will report to the Chief Operating Officer and is an important member of the administrative team.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Oversee and refine employee standards and procedures, using existing HR systems as well as identify and recommend improvements to internal standard operating procedures, including team restructuring and morale building, where necessary.
- Serve as primary contact for all payroll related matters and retirement contributions for employees.
- Process payroll for up to 50 staff members
- Be the primary intermediary between external PEO and employees.
- Prepare and review year end compensation reports from external PEO
- Implement recruitment and onboarding processes that perform with a high standard for quality and in alignment with current standard business practices, including establishing and conducting orientation and training programs so that employees understand how they can best support the Foundation’s mission.
- Maintain and enhance employee benefits programs, including compensation, health insurance, leave, and vacation.
- Develop, deliver, and maintain management guidelines that support departments’ human-resources policies and procedures and reinforce the Foundation’s overall business direction and mission.
- Plan, monitor, and appraise HR activities in compliance with national and local HR regulations by scheduling management conferences, resolving employee grievances, training managers in how to coach and discipline, and counseling employees and supervisors.
- Build strong relationships with external suppliers, fostering trust and promoting collaboration.
- Collect Conflict of Interest Forms from staff, board, advisory councils, and vendors.
- Handle confidential matters with discretion.
REQUIREMENTS
- Minimum of five years’ experience in human resources or employee recruitment
- Experience working with non-for-profit businesses an advantage.
- Minimum bachelor’s degree in business, arts administration, or related field.
- Demonstrated ability to proactively prioritize and manage time, juggle multiple duties, and meet deadlines.
- Exceptional judgment, professionalism, and discretion in handling confidential and sensitive situations and matters.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills and an ethical mindset
- Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills
- Strong understanding of national laws related to HR specifically looking at NY and Florida state laws.
- Ability to maintain a highly professional, positive, and flexible demeanor with rapid and shifting priorities.
- Proven organizational ability, analytical skills, and attention to detail.
- Works well within a small dynamic team in a progressive environment.
ADA SPECIFICATIONS
- Requires the ability to use a computer and office equipment traditionally found in office settings.
- The ability to traverse stairs.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary. In addition, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
As an equal opportunity employer and in our commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive work environment, the Foundation strives to attract a diverse mix of talented people. Individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds in arts organizations are strongly encouraged to apply.
COMPENSATION
Compensation is expected to be between $165,000 and $175,000, commensurate with experience. Competitive benefit package.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS AND DEADLINE
Please email letters of interest, including salary expectations, along with your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to employment@rauschenbergfoundation.org. Please indicate “Application for HR Manager” in the subject of your email.
Applications closed on September 15, 2023.
Please note that the Foundation has instituted protocols to ensure the health and safety of everyone who comes onsite, including a requirement that all staff and visitors be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, other than accommodations required by law for religious or disability objections.
DEPARTMENT: Administration
POSITION LEVEL: Experienced
EDUCATION: 4-Year Degree
LOCATION: New York City
The Robert Rauschenberg Foundation (“Foundation”) expands the legacy of artist Robert Rauschenberg (1925–2008) who believed strongly in the power of art as a catalyst for social change. The Foundation delivers on its mission through ongoing research and support for exhibitions, while sustaining the well- being of innovative artists and the work of socially engaged institutions that embody the same risk-taking, inclusive, and multidisciplinary approach that Rauschenberg exemplified in both his art and philanthropic endeavors. The Foundation primarily supports small to midsize arts and socially engaged organizations that are contrarian and experimental, even courageous, in driving towards equity. In addition, the Foundation amplifies the creative life of artists and scholars across the disciplines through residencies, commissions, and accessible public platforms. Finally, the Foundation supports research, exhibitions, publications, academic partnerships, and special projects across the globe that promote the legacy of Rauschenberg’s joyful, responsive, and irreverent approach to making work while living an empathetic and meaningful life.
POSITION SUMMARY
RRF is seeking a gracious self-directed, flexible, and effective Staff Accountant who will report to the Finance Director. The Staff Accountant will be responsible for a variety of accounting tasks in support of the financial operations of the Foundation. Primary responsibilities include maintaining financial records and reports, performing account reconciliations, and assisting in internal audits.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Performs bookkeeping activities.
- Support accounts payable and accounts receivable.
- Post bank feeds on QuickBooks to the register.
- Prepare bank reconciliations for all bank accounts.
- Enter payroll register on QuickBooks.
- Enter invoice payments on bill.com.
- Enter sales invoices and keep record of Art sales.
- Assist Finance Director in the preparation of audit work.
- Work with department managers in preparing yearly budgets for the foundation.
- Work with Finance Director in the preparation of month end financial reports.
- Maintains bookkeeping files.
- Performs basic accounting functions and other related duties as required.
- Provides back-up support to Finance Director when necessary.
- Other duties as required and assigned by Finance Director.
REQUIREMENTS
- Minimum 3 years accounting experience and a degree/diploma in Accounting or Finance.
- Experience in grants management is a plus.
- Proficiency with QuickBooks Online is required and bill.com is a plus.
- Must have excellent computer skills and willingness to upgrade computer skills, as required.
- Knowledge of non-profit accounting is a plus.
- Demonstrated ability to perform multi tasks in an environment where priorities can change rapidly.
- Demonstrated ability to manage and operate a computerized accounting and payroll system.
- Good time management skills and the ability to anticipate and manage a changing workflow.
- Good oral and written communication skills
Please note that the Foundation has instituted protocols to ensure the health and safety of everyone who comes onsite, including a requirement that all staff and visitors be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, other than accommodations required by law for religious or disability objections.
ADA SPECIFICATIONS
- Requires the ability to use a computer and office equipment traditionally found in office settings.
- The ability to traverse stairs.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary. In addition, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
As an equal opportunity employer and in our commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive work environment, the Foundation strives to attract a diverse mix of talented people. Individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds in arts organizations are strongly encouraged to apply.
COMPENSATION
Compensation is expected to be between $60,000-$70,000, commensurate with experience. Competitive benefit package. This role is exempt.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Please email letters of interest, including salary expectations, along with your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to employment@rauschenbergfoundation.org. Please indicate “Application for Staff Accountant” in the subject of your email.
LOCATION: New York City, in person
STATUS: Part time
COMPENSATION: Paid
OVERVIEW
The Robert Rauschenberg Foundation fosters the legacy of Rauschenberg’s life and work. The Foundation supports artists, initiatives, and institutions that embody the same innovative, inclusive, and multidisciplinary approach that Rauschenberg exemplified in both his art and philanthropic endeavors.
October 22, 2025 marks the centenary of Robert Rauschenberg’s birth, a celebratory cause for the launch of the first volume of the artist’s Catalogue Raisonné—published digitally and free-of-charge—and for increased exhibition programming in museums and galleries worldwide. The Foundation seeks an intern to support the Curatorial team with research and preparatory projects for exhibitions and programming for the hundredth-birthday celebration.
The Foundation as a whole focuses on three major areas: 1) increasing public access to and scholarship of Rauschenberg’s artwork; 2) cultivating emerging and established artists through a residency program at a 20-acre campus in Captiva, Florida, formerly the artist's home and studio; and 3) supporting philanthropic initiatives that connect art, culture, and creativity.
The Curatorial Intern will assist the art team in preparing exhibition, archival, and collection-based research that strategically engages the public with the breadth and depth of the artist’s career.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Draft artwork “talking points” for museums, galleries, auction houses, and collectors that include exhibition history, bibliography, provenance, art historical analysis, and source imagery investigation
- Track contemporary press mentions of the artist and synthesize noteworthy articles for archiving, research, and Board presentations
- Assist with conducting and filing catalogue raisonné artwork examinations for Rauschenberg artworks after 1965 in collaboration with RRF staff
- Locate, research, and digitize archival artwork images to update and maintain the Foundation’s artwork database
- Review accuracy of transcriptions of recorded conversations for the Foundation’s Stories Project initiative and bibliographic citations for historical artist statements
- Record the artist’s ongoing exhibition history and help maintain the Foundation’s library with the collection of new and relevant catalogues
- Prepare art related social media content
- Assist the curatorial team with various tasks related to artwork and exhibition research and preparation, including compiling research, preparing binders, and drafting power points for curatorial team meetings, projects, and exhibitions
QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, OR SKILLS REQUIRED
- Familiarity with post-war art history
- Excellent time management skills; ability to work independently and meet deadlines
- Fastidious attention to detail
- Familiarity and ease with Mac OS, Google Suite, and Microsoft Office suite; experience with FileMaker Pro or similar relational database and Adobe Photoshop a plus
- Excellent written and oral communication, research, and organizational skills
- Highly motivated, with a strong enthusiasm for working with the Curatorial and Catalogue Raisonné teams
- Interest and ideally experience in digital media production and/or digital humanities
- Graduate students or undergraduate students who are juniors and seniors majoring in art history are preferred
TERM AND COMPENSATION
- Late January–May 2024 (Spring), 16–24 hours per week in-person, with the option to extend into summer by mutual agreement (June–August)
- $20–$25 per hour commensurate with experience
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS AND DEADLINE
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, short writing sample, and two references to employment@rauschenbergfoundation.org. Applicants must indicate “Spring 2024: Curatorial Intern Position” in the email subject to ensure proper processing and review. Please do not deviate from this format as it may lead to your application being filtered out of consideration.
The application deadline is Friday January 5, 2024. The internship will begin in mid January.
As the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation is located in a historic building, entrance to the office requires the ability to walk up 13 steps.
As an equal opportunity employer and in our commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive work environment, the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation strives to attract a diverse mix of talented people and we encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.