Director of Education [Seward House Museum]

Seward House Museum
Director of Education
Position Summary

The Director of Education will develop, implement and manage educational opportunities that enhance the level of understanding of the Seward family and museum’s collection to a full range of audiences.  The Director of Education will design innovative interpretive programs that reflect knowledge of current issues in museum education and the role of museums as an integral part of the educational infrastructure of the community.

The Director of Education and will report to the Executive Director and will work closely with staff, volunteers and the Museum Board of Trustees implementing our comprehensive education and interpretive plan. Specific goals include:  planning, implementing, and evaluating a wide range of educational and public programs, engaging new museum audiences, increasing the awareness of the Museum as an educational resource through presentations and promotion, and pursuing educational and programmatic grant opportunities.   The Director of Education will serve as the main contact for schools, educators, and manages the Seward House Museum’s volunteer and internship programs.

Competitive salary and benefits package.  Send cover letter, resume, writing sample and 3 references to: director@sewardhouse.org by June 1, 2015. No phone calls please.

Job Responsibilities:

• Works with Museum Director to design, implement and evaluate education and event program schedule

• Develops curriculum plans for student and adult programs; creates an array of educational and interpretive offerings available to visitors

• Develops and implements specialized tours, programs and events for schoolchildren and the public

• Develops and implements web based outreach educational programming

• Oversees the logistical coordination of the museum’s school visits

• Manages the museum volunteer and internship programs, including the application and selection process, ongoing training and evaluation procedures

• Utilizes social media and other technologies to market and inform the public of educational programming and events at the museum

• Maintains working knowledge of significant developments and trends in the field of museum education and in the areas of student, family and adult learning and best practices in museum interpretation

• Researches and identifies potential grant opportunities and writes all major educational grants

• Works on audience advocacy to raise awareness of the Museum as a resource within the community by working with local cultural and community organizations to develop partnerships, collaborations, and special programs to serve their unique needs

• Serves on various committees, as required and assigned

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, public history, education or related field required, Master’s degree preferred.  Minimum of two years experience with educational programming in museums, historic sites or nontraditional settings required.  Excellent oral, written and computer skills. Successful grant writing experience preferred.  Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to communicate effectively to a wide range of museum audiences. Ability to manage projects independently, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Knowledge and experience in visitor’s studies, program evaluation and museum education methodologies desired.