The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) is a contemporary art museum, with an internationally-acclaimed Artists-in-Residence (AIR) program, located in Center City, Philadelphia. Founded in 1977, FWM encourages artists at all stages of their careers to experiment with new materials and new media in a veritable living laboratory. FWM is easily accessible via public transit and is steps from Reading Terminal Market and blocks from Chinatown and historic City Hall.
The Fabric Workshop and Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. FWM’s culture embraces diversity within the workplace, and outside, and welcomes all candidates to apply, without fear of discrimination.
To apply for a job opportunity at The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM), please follow the instructions for your desired open position listed below. For all general inquiries, email opportunities@fabricworkshopandmuseum.org.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire. Offers of employment are contingent upon the return of a satisfactory background check.
For information regarding applying for an apprenticeship, please visit the pages for High School Apprentice Training and College and Postgraduate Apprentice Training Programs.
Employment Opportunities
Senior Director of Finance and Operations
The Opportunity
Join FWM as our Senior Director of Finance and Operations and become a cornerstone of the institution, driving the operational excellence and financial sustainability that enables our artistic mission to flourish. This is a highly strategic and impactful role for a collaborative leader, analytical thinker, and skilled operations professional who can ensure the museum’s infrastructure supports our vision for innovation and growth.
As a key member of our leadership team, you’ll oversee all aspects of our financial planning, operational systems, technology infrastructure, and human resources functions. This position offers the unique opportunity to shape the operational backbone of one of the nation’s most vibrant contemporary art institutions while working directly with artists, staff, Board members, community partners, and other collaborators who share our passion for pushing artistic boundaries.
The position reports directly to the Executive Director.
This is an in-person, public facing, full-time position working 40 hours per week (Monday–Friday, 10:00 am–6:00 pm), with occasional evening or weekend events. FWM staff have the option of working remotely on Mondays.
The starting salary range is $95,000–$110,000 annually and is commensurate with experience. Benefits package includes medical, vision, and dental, access to retirement savings, vacation time and sick/personal days, paid holidays, access to an employee assistance program, FWM membership, FWM Store employee discount, and American Alliance of Museums membership.
Supervisory Responsibilities
- Oversees external accounting and audit firms
- Staff liaison to Finance Committee of the Board of Directors
- Manages external vendors and consultants
What You’ll Do
Financial Leadership & Strategic Planning
- Develop and maintain comprehensive annual operating budgets and multi-year financial strategies that support FWM’s mission and long-term sustainability
- Partner with the Executive Director, Board Treasurer, and Finance Committee to track financial performance and guide strategic decision-making
- Supervise external accounting partnerships and coordinate annual audits, tax filings, and compliance requirements
- Collaborate with the Advancement team on grants management, compliance, and proposal development to optimize revenue opportunities
Operational Excellence
- Ensure seamless day-to-day operations across all museum functions while identifying opportunities for process improvements, efficiencies, and technological innovation
- Manage and maintain FWM’s offices including office equipment, furnishings, fixtures, and shared supplies
- Update, develop, coordinate, and execute comprehensive policies and procedures that uphold nonprofit integrity and best practices
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with financial institutions, vendors, and service providers. Manage organization subscriptions and contracts.
- Conduct regular risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies to protect FWM’s assets and operations
Technology & Infrastructure Management
- Serve as point person for all daily tech needs and troubleshooting. Manage physical and remote work platforms, including on-site computers and workstations and cloud and server-based tools.
- Oversee email and software access for staff and other collaborators
- Oversee IT infrastructure planning, implementation, and security initiatives to protect FWM’s physical and digital assets
- Manage relationships with technology consultants and contractors for all systems including surveillance, networks, databases, and communications.
- Evaluate current technology and recommend emerging technologies to improve operational efficiency and the visitor experience
- Lead digital/cyber security initiatives to safeguard sensitive institutional and collection data
Risk Management & Legal Oversight
- Manage a comprehensive insurance portfolio and ensure adequate and cost effective coverage for all museum operations and the art collection
- Oversee contract drafting, negotiation, and execution for all museum agreements and vendor relationships
- Monitor risk exposure, manage claims processes, and serve as primary liaison with insurance brokers and legal counsel
Human Resources & Team Development
- Supervise human resources functions including staff on-boarding and off-boarding, payroll, benefits administration and renewals, compliance with labor laws, and employee handbook management
- Manage payroll, timekeeping, and benefits administration
- Coordinate annual performance review process
- Collaborate with the Executive Director on all labor relations, including union communications and collective bargaining agreements
- Foster an inclusive, people-centered culture that aligns with FWM’s mission and values
Who You Are
Essential Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, nonprofit management, or related discipline; MBA, MPA, or CPA preferred
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience within museums, nonprofits, or cultural institutions, with at least 5–7 years in senior management roles in operations, finance, and/or administration.
- Proven ability to manage budgets of $3–5M+ with strong financial acumen in budgeting, forecasting, and revenue operations
- Comprehensive knowledge of nonprofit regulations, compliance requirements, and quality standards
- Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills with a collaborative leadership style
- Experience working effectively with boards, executive leadership, and managing external partnerships
What Sets You Apart
- Genuine passion for arts, culture, education, and community impact
- Mission-driven mindset with authentic enthusiasm for FWM’s purpose and transformative potential
- Entrepreneurial spirit with experience building and leading dynamic, cross-functional teams
- Strategic thinking combined with hands-on operational excellence
- Proven ability to lead organizational change while maintaining operational stability
- High level of discretion and integrity in handling sensitive and confidential matters
- Enthusiasm for fostering an inclusive workplace culture that reflects our commitment to diverse creative voices
Ready to Apply?
If you feel like you’d be a good fit for this position but are concerned that you might not be 100% aligned with every qualification, we encourage you to apply. Selected candidates rarely meet 100% of all qualifications for a position, and we do not want to miss the opportunity to meet an excellent candidate.
Interested candidates should address a letter of interest, resume and contact information to opportunities@fabricworkshopandmuseum.org. Kindly include “Application: Senior Director of Finance & Operations” in the subject line of your email. Please submit your materials on or before Wednesday, October 15, 2025 by 11:59 pm EST.
After applications are reviewed, selected applicants will be contacted for interviews.
PDF Version:
Our Commitment to You
FWM is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and fostering an environment that welcomes and encourages recruiting and retaining qualified candidates from diverse groups. We provide equal opportunity to applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or status as a veteran.
Just as we celebrate diverse artistic voices in our galleries, we believe that diverse perspectives in our workplace strengthen our ability to serve our community and fulfill our mission. We actively seek candidates who will contribute to the rich tapestry of experiences, backgrounds, and ideas that make FWM a dynamic place to create, learn, and grow.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Frequently required to stand
- Frequently required to walk
- Continually required to sit
- Continually required to utilize hand and finger dexterity
- Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel or crawl
- Continually required to talk or hear
- Continually utilize visual acuity to operate equipment, read technical information, and/or use a keyboard
- Occasionally required to lift/push/carry items up to 50 pounds
- Occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions (non-weather)
- Occasionally work near moving mechanical parts
- Occasionally work in high, precarious places
- Occasionally work around fumes, airborne particles, or toxic chemicals (as used in the print studio)
- Occasionally exposed to loud noises (example: woodshop machinery)
Ready to help shape the future of contemporary art? We want to hear from you. We look forward to your application.
Senior Director of Advancement
The Opportunity
Join FWM as our Senior Director of Advancement and become the chief architect of philanthropic support, driving our mission forward into the next chapter of artistic excellence. This is a highly visible and strategic leadership role for a confident fundraiser, collaborative leader, and skilled communicator who can inspire transformative giving for our exhibitions, programs, and institutional priorities.
As a key member of our leadership team, you’ll oversee all aspects of fundraising—from major gifts and institutional giving to membership, campaigns, and signature events. This position offers the unique opportunity to shape the future of one of the nation’s most vibrant contemporary art institutions while working directly with artists, donors, foundations, and community partners who share our passion for pushing artistic boundaries.
The position reports directly to the Executive Director.
This is an in-person, public facing, full-time position working 40 hours per week (Monday–Friday, 10:00 am–6:00 pm), with occasional evening or weekend events. FWM staff have the option of working remotely on Mondays.
The starting salary range is $95,000–$105,000 annually and is commensurate with experience. Benefits package includes medical, vision, and dental, access to retirement savings, vacation time and sick/personal days, paid holidays, access to an employee assistance program, FWM membership, FWM Store employee discount, and American Alliance of Museums membership.
Supervisory Responsibilities
- Oversees Advancement Team (1–2 full-time employees)
- Staff liaison to Development Committee of the Board of Directors
- Manages external grant writers, consultants, and vendors as necessary
What You’ll Do
Strategic Leadership & Vision
- Develop and lead FWM’s comprehensive fundraising strategy across major gifts, annual giving, foundation and corporate grants, membership, planned giving, and signature events
- Partner with the Executive Director, Board, and Development Committee to align fundraising strategies with our mission and institutional priorities
- Play an active role in recruiting and engaging prospective Board members who will champion our vision
Relationship Building & Donor Engagement
- Build and maintain transformative relationships with individual donors, foundations, corporations, Board members, and community partners
- Direct all aspects of donor stewardship to ensure an exceptional experience from cultivation through acknowledgment
- Create and execute innovative strategies to attract corporate partners, with emphasis on meaningful sponsorship opportunities
Program Management & Growth
- Oversee planning and execution of signature fundraising events and donor engagement experiences that showcase FWM’s unique artistic program
- Develop and monitor our annual development plan and department budget, ensuring fundraising targets are met or exceeded
- Design and oversee systems for gift management, reporting, and stewardship that reflect best practices in the field
Team Leadership & Collaboration
- Grow and mentor a professional Advancement team, including direct supervision of Advancement Coordinator, grant writers, consultants, and vendors
- Collaborate with Marketing and Communications team to create compelling donor communications and campaign materials
- Partner with Executive leadership on long-term financial planning to ensure our advancement efforts contribute to FWM’s sustainability and growth
Who You Are
Essential Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; CFRE certification preferred
- Minimum of seven years of progressive experience in nonprofit advancement or development, ideally within a museum or cultural organization
- Proven track record of securing and stewarding major gifts, including six- and seven-figure contributions from individuals, foundations, and corporations
- Demonstrated success in designing and implementing integrated fundraising strategies across annual giving, major gifts, and capital campaigns
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing and mentoring high-performing fundraising teams
- Proficiency in fundraising CRM systems (including Bloomerang) and Microsoft Office Suite
- Deep understanding of philanthropic trends, donor motivations, fundraising ethics, and stewardship best practices
- Exceptional skills in donor relations, writing, public speaking, event planning, and hospitality, with the ability to communicate vision and impact to diverse audiences
- Highest level of tact and discretion with confidential information
What Sets You Apart
- Genuine passion for contemporary art, culture, education, and community impact
- High comfort level engaging with high-net-worth individuals and institutional funders
- Experience supporting capital campaigns or institutional growth initiatives
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment with multiple stakeholders
- Entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm for envisioning and nurturing a high-functioning department and team
- Passion for FWM’s mission and ability to communicate this mission to donors and prospects in truly inspiring ways
Ready to Apply?
If you feel like you’d be a good fit for this position but are concerned that you might not be 100% aligned with every qualification, we encourage you to apply. Selected candidates rarely meet 100% of all qualifications for a position, and we do not want to miss the opportunity to meet an excellent candidate.
Interested candidates should address a letter of interest, resume and contact information to opportunities@fabricworkshopandmuseum.org. Kindly include “Application: Senior Director of Advancement” in the subject line of your email. Please submit your materials on or before Wednesday, October 15, 2025 by 11:59 pm EST.
After applications are reviewed, selected applicants will be contacted for interviews.
PDF Version:
Our Commitment to You
FWM is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and fostering an environment that welcomes and encourages recruiting and retaining qualified candidates from diverse groups. We provide equal opportunity to applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or status as a veteran.
Just as we celebrate diverse artistic voices in our galleries, we believe that diverse perspectives in our workplace strengthen our ability to serve our community and fulfill our mission. We actively seek candidates who will contribute to the rich tapestry of experiences, backgrounds, and ideas that make FWM a dynamic place to create, learn, and grow.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Frequently required to stand
- Frequently required to walk
- Continually required to sit
- Continually required to utilize hand and finger dexterity
- Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel or crawl
- Continually required to talk or hear
- Continually utilize visual acuity to operate equipment, read technical information, and/or use a keyboard
- Occasionally required to lift/push/carry items up to 50 pounds
- Occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions (non-weather)
- Occasionally work near moving mechanical parts
- Occasionally work in high, precarious places
- Occasionally work around fumes, airborne particles, or toxic chemicals (as used in the print studio)
- Occasionally exposed to loud noises (example: woodshop machinery)
Ready to help shape the future of contemporary art? We want to hear from you. We look forward to your application.
Internships
The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) seeks students with an interest in Philadelphia’s arts and cultural community. Our interns are high school and college students who are interested in first-hand experience in the programming and administration of a contemporary art museum and collaborative workshop. Under the supervision of a staff member, interns assist with regular departmental activities and specific programmatic activities as assigned.
To support more equitable opportunities in the museum field, FWM offers only paid internships via designated funding from grants or an intern’s school.
Paid Internship Opportunities
There are currently no intern positions available. Please check back soon.
Please email general inquiries to opportunities@fabricworkshopandmuseum.org.