Digital Interpretive Specialist

The New York Botanical Garden

Horticulture – Position Application Number: H-1565

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This is a temporary full time grant funded position; 2 years (September 2015-September 2017). The Digital Interpretive Specialist oversees project-management and execution of portions of the multimedia interpretive program including signage for special exhibitions and permanent collections, audio tours, mobile experiences, introductory film, and other interpretive projects as needed for American Impressionism: Gardens on Canvas. He/she also coordinates the training and evaluation of the digital interpretive program and assists in the long term coordination of electronic interpretation for the Garden’s 250 acres of living collections. He/she will:

Specific Duties & Responsibilities
• With the Curator of Interpretive Content for Public Engagement and other members of the Horticulture department, identify interpretive needs for special exhibits and permanent collection while increasing the level of technical engagement for Garden visitors
• Act as a liaison among the Education, Library, and Marketing and Creative Services Departments, helping to develop innovative and engaging interpretive and program materials that can be disseminated with technology
• Manage all aspects of interpretive development including writing, editing, routing for credits and approval, design, production, testing, and implementation
• Research content for interpretation and write interpretive text as needed. With Curator of Interpretive Content for Public Engagement, identify appropriate staff or consultants to write interpretation and manage process to ensure timely delivery
• Oversee maintenance, distribution, and ongoing training of audio tour, mobile site and all other interpretive technologies. With Curator of Interpretive Content for Public Engagement, oversee development process of all tours
• Assist in the development of staff training in advance of exhibition opening for all staff members who interface with the public. Together with Visitor Services and Marketing develop strategies for promotion of electronic interpretation to increase visitor engagement
• Take inventory, review, maintain, and update as needed all existing interpretive content including audio tours, signage, collateral, and any other modes of interpretation that might exist. Ensure that all materials are in compliance with the requirements set forth by the American Disabilities Act
• Track and evaluate (including thorough on-site visitor surveys and interviews) usage of interpretive tools and develop weekly and summative reports
• With AVP of Exhibitions and Public Engagement and Curator of Interpretive Content for Public Engagement, write a strategic plan for the future integration of technological interpretation and programs into Garden exhibitions and general programmatic operations
• With AVP of Exhibitions and Public Engagement and Curator of Interpretive Content for Public Engagement, initiate internal practices that support technological interpretation of the permanent collection

Requirements
• Graduate of a public humanities MA or PH.D. program, preferably with a concentration in museums, art history, or technology, who has a strong interest working in museum interpretation and/or educational and community outreach using media and technology
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Basic knowledge of HTML and content management systems; photo/asset management; familiarity with a diverse base of content devices (iPhone, Android, etc.)
• 1-3 years experience in a museum or nonprofit setting
• Demonstrated ability in developing, implementing, and managing interpretation for exhibits, preferably at an informal science or cultural organization
• Demonstrated ability in developing technological solutions for engaging audiences
• Must have strong research, communication, and writing skills as well as organization and planning skills

EOE/M/F/Disabled/Veteran