On-call Instructor, Educational Programs - Varley Art Gallery

The City of Markham is proud to be recognized for the 5^th consecutive year as one of Canada's Best Employers by Forbes and Statista Inc. In 2025, the City of Markham is ranked 2nd among municipalities in Canada and 12th overall for Government Services. The recipient of multiple environmental awards, we are recognized for our innovative sustainability and urban planning initiatives as well as our fiscal accountability. More than 366,000 residents call Markham home and benefit from our rich heritage, culturally diverse environment, vibrant local economy and focus on quality of life.

Applications are now being accepted for the above positions in the Varley Art Gallery of Markham in the Economic Growth, Culture and Entrepreneurship Department, Development Services Commission. To apply, please submit your cover letter and resume on-line by February 21, 2025.

Are you passionate about art education and community engagement? The Varley Art Gallery of Markham is seeking an Educational Program Instructor to join our team! Join us and make a lasting difference!

We have 2 positions available.

Work Hours: Part Time (up to 24 hours per week). Must be available on Mondays and Tuesdays, 8 AM to 4 PM.

Start Date: March 2025

About the Role

Under the primary supervision of the Public Programs Coordinator, and as part of the gallery's Education Department, the Educational Program Instructor will:

• Deliver engaging, high-quality educational programs for students from JK to Grade 12, including exhibition tours and art activities in a studio setting.
• Research gallery exhibitions and artists to enhance program content and training materials.
• Adapt and customize programs to meet the diverse needs of our audiences.
• Prioritize safety in the studio environment by ensuring the appropriate use of tools, materials, and equipment.
• Prepare and organize art supplies, and set up and clean the studio space.
• Establish positive relationships with students, teachers, staff, and volunteers to ensure an excellent customer experience.
• Travel to offsite outreach programs as required.
• Assist in maintaining studio cleanliness, inventory, and organization.
• Provide feedback on programming and recommend improvements.
• Perform other program-related tasks as assigned.

Additional Information

• Adherence to City of Markham expectations, policies, and procedures is required.
• Certifications and mandatory training must be completed and kept up to date.
• Successful candidates must complete timecard entries in a timely manner and notify the Program Coordinator of any customer service issues.

Qualifications

• Must be available to work on Mondays and Tuesdays 8 AM to 4 PM.
• Minimum of 16 years of age at the start of employment
• A degree, diploma, or coursework in fine arts, art history, education, museum studies, or a related field.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience facilitating educational programs for children and youth, ideally in a gallery, museum, or similar cultural institution.
• Experience working with diverse audiences, including children, youth, and educators.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
• Adaptability and creativity in delivering and customizing programs for different age groups and learning needs.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build positive relationships with participants, staff, and volunteers.
• Familiarity with art materials, tools, and techniques.
• Knowledge of safety practices in a studio or educational environment.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications for timecard entry and communication.

Certifications and Training

• Current First Aid/CPR certification.
• Vulnerable Sector Screening (Police Background Check).

Other Requirements

• A valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation for offsite programs (if applicable).
• Availability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends, depending on programming needs.
• Working knowledge of the Ontario Arts Curriculum an asset.

Core Behaviours

• Service Excellence: Meets or exceeds service standards when interacting with customers in the community and in the organization.
• Change & Innovation: Responds positively and professionally to change and helps others through change.
• Teamwork & Relationship Building: Interacts with others in an inclusive, collaborative and respectful way that creates effective working relationships.
• Communication: Communicates in a clear, professional and respectful way; demonstrates active listening.
• Accountable & Results Oriented: Demonstrates ethical behaviour and accountability, aligns with City values, and abides by relevant policies and legislation.
• Management & Leadership: Demonstrates self-management, professionalism and engagement; leads by example.

Certifications that will expire during your work term must be re-certified prior to your start date. If you are registered for an applicable course, please list it on your resume along with the registration dates.

Why Join Us?

At the Varley Art Gallery of Markham, you'll be part of a dynamic team dedicated to enriching the community through arts education. This role offers the opportunity to inspire young minds, contribute to cultural programming, and grow professionally in an engaging and supportive environment.

Please respect our scent free area by not wearing scented products when visiting the office.

The Varley Art Gallery of Markham is committed to inclusive, accessible. and barrier free employment practices, and to creating a workplace that reflects and supports the diversity of the community we serve. We encourage LGBTQ2+, and those living with exceptionalities to apply! Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to ensure a barrier free hiring process.

Please e-mail varley@markham.ca with any questions or if you require assistance.