Exhibit Developer [San Diego Museum of Man, CA]

The San Diego Museum of Man is seeking a full-time Exhibit Developer to join the Exhibits team. The Exhibit Developer has a critical role in developing content for our temporary and permanent exhibitions, developing exhibit story lines, and organizing exhibit themes. The Exhibit Developer will participate in substantive conversations with subject-matter experts, as well as research subject matter on diverse topics.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Research, development, interpretation and writing of permanent and temporary exhibitions.
• Conduct primary topic research for exhibits, including but not limited to literature reviews and consultation with outside subject matter experts.
• Author and edit exhibit labels, visitor handouts, and other interpretative materials.
• Research, develop and test interactive activities.
• Participate in the grant writing process as requested.
• Serve on internal committees as assigned.
• Ensure frequent contact with Director of Exhibit Development to:
  • Discuss the development of exhibits
  • Identify potential problem areas needing immediate or future attention
  • Determine workflow priorities
• Participate as an actively supportive member of the exhibits team, and be willing to share knowledge as well as learn new skills from others.

Experience, Education, or Skills Required

• Graduate-level degree in exhibit development, museum studies, museum education, anthropology or a related field; or bachelor’s degree with experience equivalent.
• Minimum of three years of experience in developing highly engaging, interactive, visitor focused exhibits.
• Demonstrated experience in developing at least one large exhibit (2000 sq. ft. and above) from start to finish.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel and basic understanding of VectorWorks and AutoCAD.
• Excellent writing, editing and grammar skills.
• Ability to research subject matter and understand basic concepts in humanities and arts and sciences.
• Proven ability to communicate complex ideas with a wide range of audiences.
• Ability to relate effectively with people of various cultural backgrounds, levels of education and experience.
• Familiarity with literature related to informal learning, visitor evaluation and museum exhibition development.
• Audio/video production experience, including drafting scripts and directing performers.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a creative and collaborative environment.
• Self-motivated; able to work individually without close supervision within tight deadlines. Able to coordinate with a small team to accomplish well-defined objectives.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry large/bulky items weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to move between all areas of the museum, some of which are widely spaced on uneven terrain and require climbing stairs.