Description: Hanford Mills Museum (HMM) operates an authentic water- and steam-powered National Register-listed historic site in East Meredith, NY.  The Museum seeks a full-time Interpretation Coordinator to begin in July 2015. The ideal candidate will join a small professional team dedicated to preserving and operating the in-situ rural-industrial complex and inspiring audiences to make sustainable choices through the exploration of connections among energy, technology, natural resources and entrepreneurship in rural communities (www.hanfordmills.org<http://www.hanfordmills.org> ).

Responsibilities: The Interpretation Coordinator will report to the Education and Curatorial Initiatives Manager and work to support the Museum in its efforts to fulfill the organizational mission and achieve the goals of the HMM Strategic Plan. S/he will implement, evaluate and improve interpretation and programming at the Mill.

  • Develop, implement and evaluate education programming, including special events, family and outreach programs, school programs, and adult workshops and programs.
  • Provide seasonal interpretation and assistance in Mill operations, including tours and historic machinery demonstrations, in collaboration with the Mill Operations Manager.
  • Coordinate on-site interpretive themes and activities.
  • Supervise seasonal and part-time interpretive staff.
  • Lead effort to complete and update documentation of Mill procedures, equipment and interpretation in collaboration with the Mill Operations Manager.
  • Contribute to cultivation of new and existing relationships with schools, educational groups, and community organization.
  • Assist with exhibition development as a member of the exhibition team.
  • Support and contribute to positive staff collaboration, outstanding visitor services, safe and sustainable operations, and other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Education/experience: A Master’s degree in Museum Studies, Education, Public History, or a comparable field; or a Bachelor’s degree and at least three years of relevant, progressive and outstanding professional performance.
  • Knowledge of cultural resources management, museum education, interpretation, and programming.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and implement education programs for a variety of audiences.
  • Effective organizational, supervisory and personnel management skills.
  • Strong written and effective verbal communication skills, including comfort speaking to and with people of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Experience and/or desire to learn to operate woodworking and other machinery.
  • Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite and Adobe Creative suite.
  • Ability to perform tasks that require moderate physical exertion, stand/walk for long periods on varying surfaces, inside and outside, and in a variety of conditions.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evening and holidays.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel for outreach programs and professional development activities.

Compensation: $32,000 – $38,000 plus benefits

Apply by May 1, 2015: Email a cover letter describing the fit between applicant’s professional experience and position responsibilities; resume; and contact information for three professional references tokajsah@hanfordmills.org <mailto:kajsah@hanfordmills.org> .