The Aurora History is an exciting place to work!  Therefore, we are seeking a highly motivated individual for the position of Exhibits Curator. The Curator of Exhibits is responsible for the visual presentation and interpretation of the exhibits placed in the Museum and other locations.  Under the supervision of the Aurora History Museum (museum) Coordinator, this position is responsible for all aspects of exhibit development, implementation, removal and evaluation.

The salary range for the Exhibit Curator position is $18.83 – $31.06/hour.  The starting salary of the ideal candidate will be determined by their years of experiences and overall knowledge.

The City of Aurora will conduct a first screening of this position on Friday, August 12th at 9 a.m.; if we determine to have a qualified pool of applicants at that time this position may close early without prior notice. Thank you for your interest in this position.

Despite the changes in Colorado law, the City of Aurora maintains a drug free workplace. A positive test of marijuana is grounds for disqualification or termination once hired.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Researches, plans, develops, designs, fabricates, installs, maintains, removes, stores/returns and evaluates long-term and temporary exhibits at the Museum and other locations
  • Organizes, presents, and communicates messages effectively through design, sketches, models, detailed working drawings and specifications as required
  • Manages all aspects of the changing exhibition schedule to minimize any negative impacts on visitors during “downtimes” between exhibits
  • Plans long-range schedule of exhibits and conceptualizes exhibits in consultation with staff and community partners when applicable
  • Develops and installs exhibits including graphics, signage, lighting and media according to standard museum practices and in multiple languages as appropriate
  • Organizes time, materials, and resources effectively to create exhibits according to schedule
  • Cultivates collaboration and networking with regional resources that have objects and materials available to loan or donate to the museum’s exhibitions
  • Prepares and maintains exhibit budgets and acquires through purchase or other means all materials and equipment necessary for exhibits
  • Fabricates exhibit components as necessary using the museum’s carpentry workshop.
  • Develops or assists with programs, special events, educational materials and tours related to exhibits
  • Manages Museum’s traveling exhibits, including contract management
  • Assists with identification of grants and grant writing
  • Assists with marketing responsibilities including, but not limited to, website, print and electronic media and communications with media and the public
  • Assists with the tracking and interpreting of exhibit attendance
  • Provides outstanding customer service to internal and external customers
  • Performs additional duties as assigned
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:  Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, history, design or related field.  Master’s degree preferred.

Experience:  At least 3 years of experience researching, planning, designing, fabricating, installing, maintaining, removing, storing/returning and evaluating professional, complex and interactive museum exhibits.  An equivalent combination of education, training and experience that demonstrates required knowledge, skills and abilities may be considered.

Knowledge:  Knowledge of collection /conservation handling techniques required for safety/security of artifacts used in exhibits; graphic design and knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Office, safety procedures for working with woodworking equipment, paint, solvents, and adhesives used in a museum setting; budget and contract compliance.

Abilities:  Ability to establish and adhere to strict exhibition schedules and to manage many projects simultaneously; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; design and create museum exhibits; conceptualize and articulate exhibit objectives; maintain working knowledge of standard museum practices for exhibition; maintain effective working relationships with employees, citizens, and other museum professionals; ability to maintain electronic and mechanical interactive devices; develop multi-media interactive technology-based interpretation  in permanent and temporary exhibits; ability to work with guest curators/content specialists in exhibit conceptualization and development and oversee work of assistant(s) and volunteers.

Skills:  Strong organizational and time management skills; strong problem solving, communication, and teamwork skills; skill at conceptualizing and implementing museum exhibit programs; skill at conceptualizing and implementing exhibit concepts into finished exhibits; skill with fabrication of exhibit components using hand and power shop equipment, including table saw, miter saw, and air tools; Excellent customer service skills

LICENSES, EQUIPMENT, OR CERTIFICATES REQUIRED:  Colorado drivers license with a good driving history.  This position may require the incumbent to occasionally use personal equipment (e.g.. vehicle, cell phone, tools, etc.) in the course of their employment.
WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical Demands:  Physical work requiring ability to lift 50 pounds with or without assistance; lifting and carrying museum objects; regular walking, standing, bending, kneeling, stooping, pushing or pulling ability to prepare exhibits; hand/eye coordination for operation of hand and mechanical shop equipment and computer keyboard; ability to operate motor vehicles; frequent communication (speaking and listening) with employees, citizens, museum professionals and other stakeholders.

Work Environment:  Works primarily indoors in a museum environment with some exposure to dust, fumes, and chemicals from exhibit materials.

Equipment Used:  Personal computer; motor vehicle; shop equipment.