BlackFlash Magazine is seeking an Operations Assistant to work in an Young Canada Works internship position from September 1st to December 22nd, 2021. The position is full-time (30 hours per week) and pays a rate of $18.00 per hour. The ideal candidate has an invested interest in visual art and/or publishing practices, and is interested in working for a not-for-profit print publication.
Candidates must be between the ages of 16 and 30, and be recent graduates (within the last 24 months) of a college or university. Candidates must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, or have refugee status in Canada (unfortunately, non-Canadians holding temporary work visas or awaiting permanent status are not eligible).
The successful candidate will:
1. Assist the Managing Editor with editorial responsibilities related to the production and dissemination of BlackFlash Magazine. The position will provide support through editing text, compiling publication material, and coordinating with contributing writers and artists, as directed by the Managing Editor.
2. Assist with all matters related to BlackFlash Magazine’s online programming, including regular website updates, content management, and strengthening the organization’s presence and impact on social media platforms. The Operations Assistant will be responsible for drafting and preparing social media content on a regular basis to create a consistent organizational presence across platforms.
3. Assist with the physical and digital circulation of BlackFlash Magazine to vendors and subscribers, as well as all other related material, such as event invitations, sponsorship packages, reader/contributor surveys, and promotional and press material related to fundraising and programming initiatives.
4. Regularly update and maintain BlackFlash Magazine’s subscription database to ensure effective and efficient circulation.
5. Provide support and coordination for events-based programming, such as publication launches and fundraising events, as well as virtual and in-person events hosted by other organizations that BlackFlash Magazine will be attending for promotional purposes (e.g. exhibition openings, book fairs, etc.). The Operations Assistant will also work with the Managing Editor and Board of Directors to strengthen existing fundraising initiatives.
6. Assist with grant applications by compiling content and editing text, as directed by the Managing Editor.
7. Assist with coordination and recruitment of organizational volunteers.
8. Provide support for daily office administration as requested.
The ideal Operations Assistant candidate will possess the following characteristics and skills:
1. A recent University graduate who is looking to enter the professional field of arts and culture and/or publishing. Preference will be given to candidates with academic backgrounds in fine art, art history, media studies, journalism, or related disciplines.
2. Demonstrated proficiency with basic office software: Microsoft Word; Excel, Adobe CS, MAC OS, Internet research, WordPress, and social media platforms. Ability to think and react quickly and creatively in a fast-paced digital environment.
3. Strong verbal and written skills in English. A second language would be an asset.
4. Ability to perform detail-oriented editing, reading, and writing tasks.
5. Ability to perform tasks related to event organization, including coordinating volunteers, managing budgets, and producing and disseminating promotional material.
6. Able to work independently.
7. Able to communicate effectively through face-to-face and digital means of communication.
8. A strong interest in art history, contemporary art, visual culture, and publishing practices.
9. Must be a Canadian citizen, or a permanent resident, or have refugee status in Canada.
BlackFlash is dedicated to meaningful equity and creating an inclusive work environment.
Please submit the following documents to the BlackFlash Hiring Committee via email to editor@blackflash.ca with “Last Name, First Name: Operations Assistant Application” in the subject line:
– A cover letter describing past experience and how you wish to develop professionally through the Operations Assistant position;
– An updated curriculum vitae;
– A list of three references including titles and contact information.
Please apply by August 4th, 2021. We aim to contact shortlisted applicants by August 6th, 2021. The position will begin on September 1st, 2021.
BlackFlash is a publishing platform for contemporary visual art and is dedicated to presenting critical opinions, urgent issues, and innovative ideas about divergent artistic practices from across Canada, the United States, and beyond. BlackFlash nourishes the local and national art community by upholding diverse voices, promoting energetic debate, and addressing urgent issues. For over 38 years, BlackFlash has been providing invaluable opportunities for Prairie artists, writers, and curators.
For more information about BlackFlash, please visit https://blackflash.ca/about/
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