Description
History Nebraska is seeking a team-oriented and creative Exhibits Manager to plan, coordinate, and develop internal, traveling, and digital exhibitions. This position plays a critical role in creating relevant and engaging visitor experiences at the Nebraska History Museum, historic sites managed by History Nebraska, and online. The manager will develop, design, and maintain exhibits in collaboration with colleagues throughout the organization and external partners to ensure that exhibitions are successful.
History Nebraska is a statewide educational institution connecting people to the past through our library and research center, museum, conservation facility, interpretive sites, and the state archeology and historic preservation offices. History Nebraska preserves and interprets our state’s past, contributes to the education of its citizens, and uses the tools of history to shape a better future for all Nebraskans. History Nebraska’s goal is to be the most engaging and relevant state historical society in the nation.
Our five core values are:
- We Do It Better Every Time. We are always looking to improve. When we fail, we know why and learn from it.
- We Have Each Other’s Back. We work in groups. We candidly support one another for the betterment of the organization.
- We Own It. If we say we are going to do something, we do our best to get it done.
- We Are Curious. We never stop learning and we encourage curiosity in others.
- We Are Inclusive. We seek multiple perspectives and value the uniqueness of each individual.
Examples of Work / Job Duties
- Plans and manages all aspects of exhibit creation, including proposal, charter, concept, content, and script development, as well as design, fabrication and installation for all exhibitions developed and curated or hosted by History Nebraska.
- Creates an overarching exhibit interpretive framework that defines, structures, and animates all subsequent development within an exhibit project, in collaboration with colleagues and partners.
- Manages the exhibition calendar and leads regular planning meetings to identify and approve exhibition topics.
- Creates and implements long- and short-range financial, programmatic, and operational plans with attention to costs, revenue, and long-term financial sustainability of the exhibits program.
- Uses evaluation in exhibition development and implementation to meet objectives for effective exhibitions that serve visitor needs; makes recommendations for changes or improvements.
- Develops exhibition agreements with outside partners, other museums, and lenders in consultation with internal stakeholders.
- Provides overall direction for placing, training, supervising, and motivating assigned staff, exhibit contractors, work studies, interns, and volunteers; ensures objectives are met.
- Performs other related duties as apparent or assigned, including but not limited to participating in interdepartmental committees and working groups and community outreach events.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Flexibility and creativity necessary to plan, organize, and manage the development and implementation of highly complex history exhibits, including resource allocation and budgeting.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct historical research, assess resources, assign related work, and write compelling exhibit copy.
- Highly developed interpersonal skills with the ability to resolve conflict, build consensus, and work effectively and inclusively with diverse and varied people and groups.
- Ability to effectively supervise, direct, evaluate, and mentor professional staff, students, interns, and volunteers.
- Demonstrated ability to think imaginatively and problem solve, working effectively under pressure to meet deadlines, prioritizing and adapting to changing priorities.
- Strong understanding of US history and ability and willingness to learn Nebraska history across all dimensions of diversity.
- Demonstrated participation in learning or professional development opportunities that increase awareness of cultural competence/intelligence/agility.
- Must be committed to the organization’s core values and demonstrate them regularly in their work.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in history, art, architecture, graphic design, interior design, anthropology or museum studies, plus three years’ experience in exhibition development, design and coordination.
Diversity & Inclusion Statement
History Nebraska collects, preserves, and opens to all; the histories we share. We believe a diverse and inclusive workforce is an essential element in making Nebraska’s rich history available to everyone. History Nebraska is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strongly encourage and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. Our work is meaningful and challenging, and we believe diverse perspectives will make it better.
Working Title: Exhibits Manager
Classification: V39810 / Exhibition Services Coordinator
Compensation: $21.671-$32.51 per hour minimum (position is exempt from overtime)
Position #: 05400353
Location: NHM, Lincoln
Department: History Nebraska
Apply: here (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/nebraska?department[0]=History%20Nebraska&sort=PositionTitle%7CAscending)