PHILANTHROPY DIRECTOR
Status: Full-time
Supervisor: Executive Director
Salary range: $110,000 – $130,000
Application Deadline: Until Filled
The Opportunity
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is seeking an exceptional philanthropy professional to join a dynamic team as our Philanthropy Director. The Thunder Bay Art Gallery has been a cornerstone of the arts in Northern Ontario for over 40 years, showcasing the works of talented artists and providing vital educational programs. As our community has grown, so too has the need for a space that can better serve both audiences and artists. With that in mind, we have embarked on an ambitious project to build a new, state-of-the-art gallery that will not only enhance our ability to showcase art but also become a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and education.
The new Thunder Bay Art Gallery located at the Waterfront overlooking stunning Lake Superior, will feature expanded exhibition spaces, modernized facilities, and dedicated areas for community outreach and educational programming. This project will allow us to host larger exhibitions, attract more visitors, design outreach to meet the needs of our community, and offer even more opportunities for people of all ages to engage with the arts.
This new gallery will more than triple our exhibition and operating spaces. As a significant addition to Ontario’s cultural infrastructure, the new gallery will provide $33 million in direct economic impact during construction. Once open, the Gallery’s operations will generate $5.2 million annually in direct and indirect impacts to the local and regional economy, as well as an estimated $7 million in annual visitor spending.
Our new facility will not only give us more room to display art and host community programs, it will also be a beacon of culture, learning, and connection for Northern Ontario. This building will be a place where young artists can find their voices, where we can continue to showcase contemporary Indigenous and Northern Ontario visual arts, and where our local cultural heritage can be preserved and shared for generations.
- The Thunder Bay Art Gallery gratefully acknowledges that we are located on the territory of the Anishinaabe peoples of Northern Ontario. We work and live on the lands of the Fort William First Nation who are signatory to the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850.
- As the public art gallery for Thunder Bay and Northern Ontario, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery exhibits, collects, and interprets art with a focus on the work of contemporary Indigenous and Northern Ontario artists. The Gallery nurtures a life-long appreciation of the visual arts by:
- presenting exhibitions of artistic and educational value to cultivate a depth of visual arts experience for the public in Thunder Bay and the broader region of Northern Ontario;
- supporting and enhancing the development of contemporary Canadian artists with an emphasis on (but not limited to) contemporary Indigenous artists and artists from Northern Ontario;
- stewarding, conserving, and animating a permanent collection of art focused on the work of contemporary Indigenous artists and innovative cultural and artistic practice of Northern Ontario artists; and,
- presenting public programming and outreach activities in order to build audience, increase reception, and expand understanding of the visual arts.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In collaboration with the Executive Director, Campaign Chair and Campaign Committee, develops, implements and constantly evaluates the philanthropy strategy to raise the remaining funds for the capital campaign to build the new Thunder Bay Art Gallery at the waterfront.
A. Campaign Readiness
- Plans for and engages all campaign volunteers and fellow staff team members required to implement the campaign and sets them up for success throughout the remainder of the campaign through ongoing review of the strategic roadmap and providing coaching opportunities.
- Establishes a campaign donor chart of standards that is a result of solid prospect research which aligns the vision, mission, mandates and values of the Thunder Bay Art Gallery.
- Develops and maintains a channel of philanthropic donors from across Canada who are appropriate for all levels of giving to the Gallery.
- Translates strategy into actions and communicates the same throughout the Gallery.
- Develops the annual campaign budget in concert with the Executive Director, monitors progress and reports regularly to the Executive Director and Campaign Chair on budget and status of campaign goal.
- Collaborates with staff colleagues to ensure risk, governance and financial implications are considered and assessed prior to the development and presentation of philanthropy proposals.
- Monitors and evaluates campaign activities to ensure that financial goals are met.
- Energizes, motivates, and inspires all those involved in reaching the campaign goal.
- Collaborates internally with the Campaign staff colleagues to ensure appropriate identification, segmentation, cultivation, and stewardship of donors.
- Works closely with the Marcoms Coordinator to develop and manage an integrated communications strategy for the Thunder Bay Art Gallery brand, maintaining a consistent and engaging message and visual identity across all communications vehicles.
- Creates in partnership with staff colleagues, campaign communications, including proposals, gift agreements, partnership agreements and stewardship materials.
- Participates in relevant organizational committees.
- Develops and implements donor and partner recognition strategies for the campaign.
B. Volunteer And Staff Engagement
- Provides leadership, direction, and coaching to the Campaign Chair and Committee.
- Serves as the lead staff person supporting the Campaign Committee and other assigned campaign volunteers.
- Works directly with the Campaign Chair and Committee to ensure that activities are on track, volunteers feel well-supported, and goals are being met.
- Undertakes regular prospect review and evaluation with campaign volunteers, Board members, leadership and staff, and others as required.
QUALIFICATIONS AND KEY COMPETENCIES
- Post-Secondary degree is preferred and/or a combination of philanthropic education (CFRE) and experience will be considered.
- Progressive philanthropy leadership experience and a proven track record of responsibility in campaign and major gifts development.
- Previous exposure to, and involvement with, a capital campaign.
- Experience working in the not-for-profit sector.
- Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
- Exemplary verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong critical thinking skills and the ability to then make decisions concerning the campaign.
- Demonstrated experience of aligning philanthropic activities to the Gallery’s strategic plan, with the creation and implementation of a campaign philanthropic strategy.
- Excellent project management capacity complemented by exemplary people skills.
- Proven ability to build, manage and develop key relationships with partners, donors and others involved in making the campaign a success
- Proven ability to support staff colleagues and manage volunteer involvement in major gifts philanthropy.
- Highly self-motivated and able to work autonomously, take initiative, and make decisions.
- Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
- Familiarity with Indigenous cultures and communities and a commitment to allyship and reconciliation.
- Familiarity with the North, and Northern Ontario specifically, would be an asset but is not a strict requirement.
- Work history that includes a museum/gallery or art-based not-for-profit would be an asset but is not a strict requirement for this role.
- Technological fluency, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and familiarity with the donor database software DonorPerfect and GiveCloud as well as other tools used in a modern, connected workplace.
- This position will require evening and weekend work as needed.
- The successful candidate will be required to successfully complete an Ontario Police Vulnerable Sector Check (background check) prior to assuming the position.
About Thunder Bay Art Gallery:
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery gratefully acknowledges that we are located on the territory of the
Anishinaabe peoples of Northwestern Ontario. We work and live on the lands of the Fort William First
Nation who are signatory to the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850.
As the public art gallery for Thunder Bay and Northern Ontario, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery exhibits,
collects, and interprets art with a focus on the work of contemporary Indigenous and Northern Ontario
artists. The Gallery nurtures a life-long appreciation of the visual arts by:
- presenting exhibitions of artistic and educational value to cultivate a depth of visual arts
experience for the public in Thunder Bay and the broader region of Northern Ontario; - supporting and enhancing the development of contemporary Canadian artists with an emphasis
on (but not limited to) contemporary Indigenous artists and artists from Northwestern Ontario; - stewarding, conserving, and animating a permanent collection of art focused on the work of
contemporary Indigenous artists and innovative cultural and artistic practice of Northwestern
Ontario artists - and, presenting public programming and outreach activities in order to build audience, increase
reception, and expand understanding of the visual arts.
For over 45 years the Thunder Bay Art Gallery has steadily grown and is now the largest art
museum in Northern Ontario. Today, we have more than 1600 works of art in our world
renowned permanent collection and welcome more than 30,000 people through our
doors each year. Every day, the Gallery provides school tours, hosts free public programs, and
shares our space with community groups. We are a bustling cultural hub committed to
contemporary Indigenous, local, and regional art.
How to Apply
Applicants who are Deaf, have an exceptionality or disability, or who need support expressing interest or applying for this opportunity are encouraged to contact Valin Sacchetti, Administrative Coordinator at administration@theag.ca or call 807.577.6427 to allow for appropriate accommodation of your needs and to discuss alternate formats for submitting your application.
To apply for this position, please send via email to administration@theag.ca, a letter of intent, and a current resume, under the subject line “Campaign Director” addressed to:
Matthew Hills, Executive Director
Thunder Bay Art Gallery
PO Box 10193
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 6T7
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is committed to employment equity and diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women, people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities and racialized people, and people with disabilities.
Summer Art Camp Instructor
Status: Full-time Summer Student Employment (40 hours per week)
Supervisor: Gallery Educator
Pay: $17.70/hr
Start Date: May 26, 2025
End Date: August 29, 2025
Application Deadline: April 25, 2025
The Opportunity
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is seeking two dynamic and enthusiastic instructors to lead a summer of art camp programming in an inspiring creative environment. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to share their passion for art and education while developing their teaching skills as they plan lessons, teach fine art techniques, guide gallery visits, and lead art based play both in Gallery and outside. Knowledge of visual arts techniques and/or education experience is an asset.
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery’s Summer Art Camp program is a popular high-quality arts and culture experience for children and youth. Camp participants develop visual literacy and critical thinking skills as they explore art history, engage with Indigenous and contemporary Canadian art in the gallery spaces, and learn about diverse art making practices. While discovering new artistic techniques participants have fun learning hands-on skills, and build their creativity and problem-solving ability.
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is uniquely positioned in Northern Ontario as a cultural institution with significant regional, provincial, and national profile. The Gallery has grown steadily for nearly 50 years and is at a crucial stage of growth and advancement as we prepare to move into a purpose designed facility on Thunder Bay’s beautiful waterfront that will more than triple our operating and programming space.
Primary Areas of Responsibility
- Assist the Education Coordinator in delivering exhibition tours and hands-on art workshops to school aged children and youth (Grades K-12) during the month of June as part of the Gallery’s popular school programming.
- Develop engaging and age-appropriate art activities, lesson plans, games, and gallery tours in collaboration with the Education Coordinator and their co-Instructor.
- Research the Gallery’s current exhibitions to incorporate into Summer Camp programming through tours and activities.
- Incorporate artworks in the Gallery’s Permanent Collection into activities and art projects.
- Plan and execute the set up of the Summer Camp classroom to create a positive learning environment.
- Maintain a clean and safe workspace throughout by performing daily set-up, clean-up, and organization of the classroom and art supply room.
- Work with a materials budget to plan required art supplies and submit purchase requests.
- Deliver instruction to participants in drawing, sculpture, ceramics, painting, printmaking, collage, multimedia, and other art making processes. Depending on the strengths and personal interests of the Art Camp Instructors, they may also use traditional and natural materials in their programming.
- Create prototypes of art project ideas to inform the teaching process to be saved and used for future educational programming at the Gallery.
- Create a fun, inclusive, safe, and dynamic classroom environment through the application of relevant group/classroom management techniques throughout the summer. The Education Coordinator will mentor Instructors in classroom management strategies.
- Communicate with parents and the Education Coordinator on a regular basis to receive feedback and ensure the success of the summer camp program.
- Complete administrative duties including keeping attendance, ensuring distribution and return of permission forms, review of class evaluation forms, and ensuring a balanced budget.
- Instructors will alternate the role of lead Instructor and assistant each week. The lead will facilitate the projects and organizing the classroom space. The assistant will act as a support for the lead Instructor, preparing materials, supervising camp participants during breaks, and assisting them one on one.
- And, responsibilities as assigned.
Essential Skills
Some technical knowledge of visual arts history, mediums, and practice or experience in planning and delivering engaging educational programs.
Comfortable with the public and able to lead large tours and art making workshops for groups of different ages and abilities, adapting the approach to the art experience as required.
Enthusiasm for sharing learning and experiences.
Innovative and adaptable to the changing needs of program participants.
Strong oral and written communication skills for engaging with program participants, educators, and others in a clear and appropriate manner.
Collaborative mindset with an ability to work independently towards a shared goal.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Safety conscious.
Candidate Eligibility
To be eligible for this position, which is funded in part by the Young Canada Works program, candidates must:
- be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, or have refugee status in Canada;
Note: Non-Canadian students or graduates holding temporary work visas or awaiting permanent resident status are not eligible. - be legally entitled to work in Canada (have a valid social insurance number);
- be between 16 and 30 years of age inclusively at the start of employment;
- have registered as a high school, college, CEGEP or university student;
- meet the specific eligibility criteria of the program to which you apply; and
- be registered in the YCW online candidate inventory.
About Thunder Bay Art Gallery:
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery gratefully acknowledges that we are located on the territory of the Anishinaabe peoples of Northwestern Ontario. We work and live on the lands of the Fort William First Nation who are signatory to the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850.
As the public art gallery for Thunder Bay and Northern Ontario, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery exhibits, collects, and interprets art with a focus on the work of contemporary Indigenous and Northern Ontario artists. The Gallery nurtures a life-long appreciation of the visual arts by:
- presenting exhibitions of artistic and educational value to cultivate a depth of visual arts
experience for the public in Thunder Bay and the broader region of Northern Ontario; - supporting and enhancing the development of contemporary Canadian artists with an emphasis on (but not limited to) contemporary Indigenous artists and artists from Northwestern Ontario;
- stewarding, conserving, and animating a permanent collection of art focused on the work of contemporary Indigenous artists and innovative cultural and artistic practice of Northwestern Ontario artists;
- and, presenting public programming and outreach activities in order to build audience, increase reception, and expand understanding of the visual arts.
For nearly 50 years the Thunder Bay Art Gallery has steadily grown and is now the largest art museum in Northern Ontario. Today, we have more than 1600 works of art in our world renowned permanent collection and welcome more than 30,000 people through our doors each year. Every day, the Gallery provides school tours, hosts free public programs, and shares our space with community groups. We are a bustling cultural hub committed to contemporary Indigenous, local, and regional art.
Finally, we are in the process of preparing for the transition to a new purposed designed facility on Thunder Bay’s waterfront in early 2027. This new gallery will more than triple our exhibition and operating spaces. This significant addition to Ontario’s cultural infrastructure will provide $33 million in direct economic impact during construction. Once open, the Gallery’s operations will generate $2.2 million annually in direct and indirect impacts to the local and regional economy, as well as an estimated $7 million in annual visitor spending.
How to Apply
Applicants who are Deaf, have an exceptionality or disability, or who need support expressing interest or applying for this opportunity are encouraged to contact Valin Sacchetti, Administrative Coordinator at administration@theag.ca or call 807.577.6427 to allow for appropriate accommodation of your needs and to discuss alternate formats for submitting your application.
To apply for this position, please send via email to administration@theag.ca, a letter of intent, a current resume and the names of two references, under the subject line “Summer Art Camp Instructor” addressed to:
Kamila Westerback, Assistant Director
Thunder Bay Art Gallery
PO Box 10193
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 6T7
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is committed to employment equity and diversity and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including women, people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; Indigenous peoples; visible minorities and racialized people; and people with disabilities. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Summer Collections and Curatorial Assistant
Status: Full-time Summer Student Employment (35 hours per week)
Supervisors: Collections Manager and Curator
Pay: $17.50/hr
Start Date: June 2, 2025
End Date: August 22, 2025
Application Deadline: April 25, 2025
The Opportunity
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is looking for an organized and attentive candidate who is passionate about art. Working in the Gallery’s world renowned permanent collection of over 1,600 Indigenous Canadian and regional artworks the Collections Assistant will support an inventory of artworks and processing of new acquisitions to the collection.
This position will provide the successful candidate with experience in key areas of collections management expertise including condition reporting, determining packing requirements, processing new acquisitions with photo documentation, collection of tombstone data, research, hard copy and electronic data entry and management, and application of accession numbers. In addition, the Intern will gain experience in key areas of exhibition curation, including, research, writing, editing text. This position requires the ability to perform to professional standards while meeting deadlines and goals.
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is uniquely positioned in Northern Ontario as a cultural institution with significant regional, provincial, and national profile. The Gallery has grown steadily for nearly 50 years and is at a crucial stage of growth and advancement as we prepare to move into a purpose designed facility on Thunder Bay’s beautiful waterfront that will more than triple our operating and programming space.
Primary Areas of Responsibility
- Handle artworks safely and appropriately while using and enhancing any previous collections preservation knowledge.
- Document artwork, including digital photography, condition reporting, fact-checking, inputting, and updating information in electronic and hard copy files.
- Perform inventory, assess, and re-house artworks in collections storage.
- Proofread and correct database records for any typographic errors and data entry inconsistencies.
- Organize and maintain paper-based object and artist files.
- Assist with installing and dismantling exhibitions.
- Correspond with artists and artist estates on copyright clearance requests.
- Conduct traditional and online research of artists held in the Permanent Collection as well as those represented in upcoming exhibitions.
- Provide administrative support as required.
- Further responsibilities as assigned.
Essential Skills
Good working knowledge of visual arts with regards to history, contemporary arts practices, and art making techniques, including an interest in contemporary Indigenous art and material culture.
Excellent attention to detail, organizational, and time management skills.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Comfort with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Docs, and Google Drive.
Experience with digital photography.
Ability to work collaboratively as well as independently on a range of different ongoing projects.
Preference will be given to those candidates with an Art History, Visual Arts or Arts related, Indigenous Learning, or Museum Studies degree.
Candidate Eligibility
To be eligible for this position, which is funded in part by the Young Canada Works program, candidates must:
- be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, or have refugee status in Canada;
Note: Non-Canadian students or graduates holding temporary work visas or awaiting permanent resident status are not eligible. - be legally entitled to work in Canada (have a valid social insurance number);
- be between 16 and 30 years of age inclusively at the start of employment;
- have registered as a high school, college, CEGEP or university student;
- meet the specific eligibility criteria of the program to which you apply; and
- be registered in the YCW online candidate inventory.
About Thunder Bay Art Gallery
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery gratefully acknowledges that we are located on the territory of the Anishinaabe peoples of Northwestern Ontario. We work and live on the lands of the Fort William First Nation who are signatory to the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850.
As the public art gallery for Thunder Bay and Northern Ontario, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery exhibits, collects, and interprets art with a focus on the work of contemporary Indigenous and Northern Ontario artists. The Gallery nurtures a life-long appreciation of the visual arts by:
- presenting exhibitions of artistic and educational value to cultivate a depth of visual arts
experience for the public in Thunder Bay and the broader region of Northern Ontario; - supporting and enhancing the development of contemporary Canadian artists with an emphasis on (but not limited to) contemporary Indigenous artists and artists from Northwestern Ontario;
- stewarding, conserving, and animating a permanent collection of art focused on the work of contemporary Indigenous artists and innovative cultural and artistic practice of Northwestern Ontario artists;
- and, presenting public programming and outreach activities in order to build audience, increase reception, and expand understanding of the visual arts.
For nearly 50 years the Thunder Bay Art Gallery has steadily grown and is now the largest art museum in Northern Ontario. Today, we have more than 1600 works of art in our world renowned permanent collection and welcome more than 30,000 people through our doors each year. Every day, the Gallery provides school tours, hosts free public programs, and shares our space with community groups. We are a bustling cultural hub committed to contemporary Indigenous, local, and regional art.
Finally, we are in the process of preparing for the transition to a new purposed designed facility on Thunder Bay’s waterfront in early 2027. This new gallery will more than triple our exhibition and operating spaces. This significant addition to Ontario’s cultural infrastructure will provide $33 million in direct economic impact during construction. Once open, the Gallery’s operations will generate $2.2 million annually in direct and indirect impacts to the local and regional economy, as well as an estimated $7 million in annual visitor spending.
How to Apply
Applicants who are Deaf, have an exceptionality or disability, or who need support expressing interest or applying for this opportunity are encouraged to contact Valin Sacchetti, Administrative Coordinator at administration@theag.ca or call 807.577.6427 to allow for appropriate accommodation of your needs and to discuss alternate formats for submitting your application.
To apply for this position, please send via email to administration@theag.ca, a letter of intent, a current resume and the names of two references, under the subject line “Collections Assistant” addressed to:
Meaghan Eley, Collections Manager
Thunder Bay Art Gallery
PO Box 10193
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 6T7
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is committed to employment equity and diversity and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including women, people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; Indigenous peoples; visible minorities and racialized people; and people with disabilities. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Summer Visitor Services Attendant
(Summer Experience Opportunity)
Job Type: Part/Full-time Summer Student Employment (30-40 hours per week)
Supervisor: Visitor & Member Services Coordinator
Pay: $17.20/hr
Start Date: June 9, 2025
End Date: August 29, 2025
Application Deadline: April 25, 2025
The Opportunity
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is welcoming applications from attentive and personable candidates for our team of summer Visitor Services Attendants. As the friendly and professional first point of contact at the Gallery, successful candidates will greet visitors, provide helpful information, provide tours, conduct giftshop sales, maintain public spaces, and ensure positive experiences. A passion for visual arts and previous customer service experience is an asset.
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is a popular destination that delivers high quality exhibitions year-round providing local, national, and international visitors opportunities to engage with Indigenous and contemporary Canadian art.
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is uniquely positioned in Northern Ontario as a cultural institution with significant regional, provincial, and national profile. The Gallery has grown steadily for nearly 50 years and is at a crucial stage of growth and advancement as we prepare to move into a purpose designed facility on Thunder Bay’s beautiful waterfront that will more than triple our operating and programming space.
Primary Areas of Responsibility
- Share accurate information about gallery functions, exhibitions, events, fundraising initiatives, and public programs.
- Answer questions about gallery operations over the phone or in person and direct inquiries to appropriate staff members when required.
- Process admission fees, memberships, donations, class fees, for both in-store, online, and over the phone.
- Complete daily opening and closing procedures including building maintenance and security checks.
- Ensure the safety of artwork by explaining rules to patrons, maintaining presence in exhibition spaces, and when necessary, following procedures for rule enforcement.
- Accurately track Gallery visitor attendance.
- Provide customer service and assistance with gift shop purchases.
- Conduct inventory management through restocking of items, setting up merchandising displays, and maintaining a clean and organized environment.
- Conduct a mid-summer inventory count of merchandise.
- Reconcile and balance the daily cash transaction summary.
- Maintain public spaces through daily vacuuming, dusting, disinfecting, and tidying.
- Assist in meeting and event hospitality by setting out coffee and tea, set up and take down of tables and chairs.
- Provide educator support through additional supervision of art class participants during gallery visits and outdoor activities.
- Assist with various support tasks as required. Tasks may include digitizing and filing documents or monitoring summer art camp participant drop off and pick up, as well as supply preparation for activities.
- Responsibilities as assigned.
Essential Skills
Exceptional interpersonal skills including an ability to engage with sensitivity to a diverse audience.
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to collaborate with team members to achieve daily goals.
Comfortable with the public and able to lead tours of exhibitions.
Observant of details and capable of problem solving.
Knowledge of visual arts an asset.
Previous knowledge and interest in regional artwork and Contemporary Indigenous artwork an asset
Point of sale and customer service experience an asset.
Candidate Eligibility
To be eligible for this position, which is funded in part by the Canada Summer Job youth program, candidates must:
- be between 15 and 30 years of age at the beginningof the employment period*
- be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment** and
- have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations
*The youth must be 15 years of age at the beginning of the employment period. The youth may be more than 30 years of age at the end of the employment period as long as the youth was 30 at the beginning of the employment period.
**International students are not eligible participants. As the objective of the CSJ program is to support youth entering the Canadian labour market, the temporary nature of an international student’s time in Canada does not allow for a long-term connection to the labour market.
International students include anyone who is temporarily in Canada for studies and who is not a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person who has been granted refugee status in Canada. Youth awaiting a refugee status ruling, as well as those who hold a temporary visitor visa, youth visa or work visa are ineligible.
About Thunder Bay Art Gallery
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery gratefully acknowledges that we are located on the territory of the Anishinaabe peoples of Northwestern Ontario. We work and live on the lands of the Fort William First Nation who are signatory to the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850.
As the public art gallery for Thunder Bay and Northern Ontario, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery exhibits, collects, and interprets art with a focus on the work of contemporary Indigenous and Northern Ontario artists. The Gallery nurtures a life-long appreciation of the visual arts by:
- presenting exhibitions of artistic and educational value to cultivate a depth of visual artsexperience for the public in Thunder Bay and the broader region of Northern Ontario;
- supporting and enhancing the development of contemporary Canadian artists with an emphasis on (but not limited to) contemporary Indigenous artists and artists from Northwestern Ontario;
- stewarding, conserving, and animating a permanent collection of art focused on the work of contemporary Indigenous artists and innovative cultural and artistic practice of Northwestern Ontario artists;
- and, presenting public programming and outreach activities in order to build audience, increase reception, and expand understanding of the visual arts.
For nearly 50 years the Thunder Bay Art Gallery has steadily grown and is now the largest art museum in Northern Ontario. Today, we have more than 1600 works of art in our world renowned permanent collection and welcome more than 30,000 people through our doors each year. Every day, the Gallery provides school tours, hosts free public programs, and shares our space with community groups. We are a bustling cultural hub committed to contemporary Indigenous, local, and regional art.
Finally, we are in the process of preparing for the transition to a new purposed designed facility on Thunder Bay’s scenic waterfront in early 2027. This new gallery will more than triple our exhibition and operating spaces. This significant addition to Ontario’s cultural infrastructure will provide $33 million in direct economic impact during construction. Once open, the Gallery’s operations will generate $2.2 million annually in direct and indirect impacts to the local and regional economy, as well as an estimated $7 million in annual visitor spending.
How to Apply
Applicants who are Deaf, have an exceptionality or disability, or who need support expressing interest or applying for this opportunity are encouraged to contact Valin Sacchetti, Administrative Coordinator at administration@theag.ca or call 807.577.6427 to allow for appropriate accommodation of your needs and to discuss alternate formats for submitting your application.
To apply for this position, please send via email to Administration@theag.ca, a cover letter, a current resume and the names of two references, under the subject line “Summer Visitor Services Attendant” addressed to:
Katy Poirier, Visitor and Member Services Coordinator
Thunder Bay Art Gallery
PO Box 10193
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 6T7
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is committed to employment equity and diversity and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including women, people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; Indigenous peoples; visible minorities and racialized people; and people with disabilities. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
With the participation of the Government of Canada.
Summer Visitor Services Attendant
(Summer Experience Opportunity)
Job Type: Part/Full-time Summer Student Employment (30-40 hours per week)
Supervisor: Visitor & Member Services Coordinator
Pay: $17.20/hr
Start Date: June 9, 2025
End Date: August 29, 2025
Application Deadline: April 25, 2025
The Opportunity
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is welcoming applications from attentive and personable candidates for our team of summer Visitor Services Attendants. As the friendly and professional first point of contact at the Gallery, successful candidates will greet visitors, provide helpful information, provide tours, conduct giftshop sales, maintain public spaces, and ensure positive experiences. A passion for visual arts and previous customer service experience is an asset.
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is a popular destination that delivers high quality exhibitions year-round providing local, national, and international visitors opportunities to engage with Indigenous and contemporary Canadian art.
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is uniquely positioned in Northern Ontario as a cultural institution with significant regional, provincial, and national profile. The Gallery has grown steadily for nearly 50 years and is at a crucial stage of growth and advancement as we prepare to move into a purpose designed facility on Thunder Bay’s beautiful waterfront that will more than triple our operating and programming space.
Primary Areas of Responsibility
- Share accurate information about gallery functions, exhibitions, events, fundraising initiatives, and public programs.
- Answer questions about gallery operations over the phone or in person and direct inquiries to appropriate staff members when required.
- Process admission fees, memberships, donations, class fees, for both in-store, online, and over the phone.
- Complete daily opening and closing procedures including building maintenance and security checks.
- Ensure the safety of artwork by explaining rules to patrons, maintaining presence in exhibition spaces, and when necessary, following procedures for rule enforcement.
- Accurately track Gallery visitor attendance.
- Provide customer service and assistance with gift shop purchases.
- Conduct inventory management through restocking of items, setting up merchandising displays, and maintaining a clean and organized environment.
- Conduct a mid-summer inventory count of merchandise.
- Reconcile and balance the daily cash transaction summary.
- Maintain public spaces through daily vacuuming, dusting, disinfecting, and tidying.
- Assist in meeting and event hospitality by setting out coffee and tea, set up and take down of tables and chairs.
- Provide educator support through additional supervision of art class participants during gallery visits and outdoor activities.
- Assist with various support tasks as required. Tasks may include digitizing and filing documents or monitoring summer art camp participant drop off and pick up, as well as supply preparation for activities.
- Responsibilities as assigned.
Essential Skills
Exceptional interpersonal skills including an ability to engage with sensitivity to a diverse audience.
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to collaborate with team members to achieve daily goals.
Comfortable with the public and able to lead tours of exhibitions.
Observant of details and capable of problem solving.
Knowledge of visual arts an asset.
Previous knowledge and interest in regional artwork and Contemporary Indigenous artwork an asset
Point of sale and customer service experience an asset.
Candidate Eligibility
To be eligible for this position, which is funded in part by the Young Canada Works program, candidates must:
- be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, or have refugee status in Canada;
Note: Non-Canadian students or graduates holding temporary work visas or awaiting permanent resident status are not eligible. - be legally entitled to work in Canada (have a valid social insurance number);
- be between 16 and 30 years of age inclusively at the start of employment;
- have registered as a high school, college, CEGEP or university student;
- meet the specific eligibility criteria of the program to which you apply; and
- be registered in the YCW online candidate inventory.
**International students are not eligible participants. As the objective of the CSJ program is to support youth entering the Canadian labour market, the temporary nature of an international student’s time in Canada does not allow for a long-term connection to the labour market.
International students include anyone who is temporarily in Canada for studies and who is not a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person who has been granted refugee status in Canada. Youth awaiting a refugee status ruling, as well as those who hold a temporary visitor visa, youth visa or work visa are ineligible.
About Thunder Bay Art Gallery
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery gratefully acknowledges that we are located on the territory of the Anishinaabe peoples of Northwestern Ontario. We work and live on the lands of the Fort William First Nation who are signatory to the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850.
As the public art gallery for Thunder Bay and Northern Ontario, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery exhibits, collects, and interprets art with a focus on the work of contemporary Indigenous and Northern Ontario artists. The Gallery nurtures a life-long appreciation of the visual arts by:
- presenting exhibitions of artistic and educational value to cultivate a depth of visual artsexperience for the public in Thunder Bay and the broader region of Northern Ontario;
- supporting and enhancing the development of contemporary Canadian artists with an emphasis on (but not limited to) contemporary Indigenous artists and artists from Northwestern Ontario;
- stewarding, conserving, and animating a permanent collection of art focused on the work of contemporary Indigenous artists and innovative cultural and artistic practice of Northwestern Ontario artists;
- and, presenting public programming and outreach activities in order to build audience, increase reception, and expand understanding of the visual arts.
For nearly 50 years the Thunder Bay Art Gallery has steadily grown and is now the largest art museum in Northern Ontario. Today, we have more than 1600 works of art in our world renowned permanent collection and welcome more than 30,000 people through our doors each year. Every day, the Gallery provides school tours, hosts free public programs, and shares our space with community groups. We are a bustling cultural hub committed to contemporary Indigenous, local, and regional art.
Finally, we are in the process of preparing for the transition to a new purposed designed facility on Thunder Bay’s scenic waterfront in early 2027. This new gallery will more than triple our exhibition and operating spaces. This significant addition to Ontario’s cultural infrastructure will provide $33 million in direct economic impact during construction. Once open, the Gallery’s operations will generate $2.2 million annually in direct and indirect impacts to the local and regional economy, as well as an estimated $7 million in annual visitor spending.
How to Apply
Applicants who are Deaf, have an exceptionality or disability, or who need support expressing interest or applying for this opportunity are encouraged to contact Valin Sacchetti, Administrative Coordinator at administration@theag.ca or call 807.577.6427 to allow for appropriate accommodation of your needs and to discuss alternate formats for submitting your application.
To apply for this position, please send via email to Administration@theag.ca, a cover letter, a current resume and the names of two references, under the subject line “Summer Visitor Services Attendant” addressed to:
Katy Poirier, Visitor and Member Services Coordinator
Thunder Bay Art Gallery
PO Box 10193
Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 6T7
The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is committed to employment equity and diversity and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including women, people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; Indigenous peoples; visible minorities and racialized people; and people with disabilities. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
With the participation of the Government of Canada. This position is part of the Government of Ontario’s Summer Employment Opportunities Program.
Thunder Bay Art Gallery is committed to employment equity and to fostering a positive and diverse workforce that reflects the community. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Through our exhibition mandate, we work with Indigenous communities. We value Indigenous perspectives in the workplace and encourage Indigenous candidates to apply.
Upon request, suitable accommodations are available under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act (AODA) to applicants invited to an interview.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.