The Exhibit Developer is a key member of the team responsible for the development, organization, research, design, production, installation, and maintenance of exhibitions and other interpretive projects. S/he will manage projects and lead project teams, as assigned. S/he will play a pivotal role in helping the organization realize its mission to connect audiences with the story of Connecticut and communicate its brand. This position may be called upon to help fill staffing gaps to assist with customer service needs as required. It may also be required to work cross departmentally to achieve the institutional goals as set by the strategic plan.

Responsibilities: 

  • Leading or working with exhibition teams to transform social, historical, and educational concepts into tangible ideas that can be executed in an exhibition or other interpretive format which appeals to the CHS’s target audiences.
  • Participating in the planning and implementation of audience testing and evaluation related to exhibits.
  • Performing primary and secondary research, including searching for and tracking graphics, artifacts, and library materials needed for project purposes.
  • Writing, proofreading, and commenting on label copy, scripts for AV presentations, and other interpretive content, including project-related marketing language.
  • Designing and/or overseeing fabrication of labels and graphics, as needed.
  • Developing and tracking project-related budgets; ensuring projects stay within budget.
  • Serving as a liaison, as necessary, between department personnel and outside consultants or contractors.
  • Supervising the work of project team members and interns, as necessary.
  • Working, as necessary, with education and program staff on the development of exhibit-related programming for adults, families, students, and teachers.
  • Working, as necessary, with CHS’s marketing contractors and the media to promote CHS projects.
  • Working with collections staff to ensure the safety of historical materials in exhibitions and other displays.
  • Installing and de-installing exhibit components, including light carpentry work.
  • Retrieving, purchasing, and delivering project-related items.
  • Keeping informed of exhibit innovations in museums.
  • Assisting with the development of grant and sponsorship proposals and other fund-raising activities, as needed.
  • Ensuring that exhibit areas are maintained in a clean, safe, and orderly fashion.
  • Representing the CHS at professional meetings and conferences, as requested.
  • Availability to work occasional evenings and weekends to support institutional goals.
  • Carrying out other duties and responsibilities as may arise.

Qualifications: The incumbent should be an individual with superior people skills, including the ability to tactfully deliver and receive feedback, as well as excellent writing, research, and organizational skills who is capable of working on a variety of tasks simultaneously. S/he should be able to work with a broad cross section of individuals, and have knowledge of the various trades associated with design, construction, and maintenance of public exhibitions.

  • B.A. in history, education, American studies, or related field (M.A. preferred)
  • Minimum five to seven years experience in exhibition development at an institution such as a children’s, history, or science museum, or in a design firm that has created interactive, audience-centered exhibitions
  • Knowledge of current theories and best practices in museum education, interpretation, and exhibit design and an understanding of the variety of ways in which visitors learn
  • Experience developing hands-on object- or historic material-based educational materials, either in a school or museum setting
  • Ability to work collaboratively and independently, with general supervision
  • Experience working with diverse audiences
  • Historical research skills
  • Strong written communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability writing informative and accessible interpretive text that appeals to a variety of audiences
  • Demonstrated ability to design attractive exhibition graphics and labels, and ability to adhere to graphic standards
  • Excellent project management, organizational, and time-management skills
  • Ability to safely lift 50 lbs.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and a dedication to providing superior customer service
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (including Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator) and Microsoft Office programs (including PowerPoint, Excel, Microsoft Word, Publisher)
  • Experience editing audio and video materials
  • Experience creating and maintaining websites, mobile apps, and/or online experiences preferred

This position is budgeted in the low-$40K range and includes a comprehensive benefit package of health and dental insurance, annual and sick leave, paid holidays, and a 403(b) retirement savings plan.

To Apply: Please email cover letter, resume, and writing and design samples to andrea_rapacz@chs.org by Friday, October 6 at 5pm.

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