Director of Learning and Engagement. Museum of Nebraska Art

Job Description or Duties: 

The Director of Learning and Engagement is responsible for the development, management, and evaluation of all engagement programs serving all audiences of MONA. The Director of Learning and Engagement collaborates with other Museum staff members to provide a comprehensive art education curriculum, ensuring that all programming, both on-site and virtual, fulfills the mission and vision of the Museum.

• In alignment with MONA’s mission, creates, develops, implements and evaluates learning, outreach, and public programming for a wide range of museum visitors onsite, online, and in the larger community.
• As part of the senior management team, coordinates programming and exhibition schedules to ensure high-quality offerings and interdepartmental coordination
• Coordinates innovative engagement opportunities (digital and in-person presentations, lectures, activities, workshops, special events). Willingness to take risks and experiment with nontraditional programs and events
• Responsible for the creation and implementation of a formal education program which complements school curriculum, supports state educational standards, engages students, and fulfills teachers needs
• Trains, schedules, and evaluates Visitor Service Representatives; oversees MONA’s reception desk and its functions of security and information hub
• Actively manages education and engagement activity volunteers, including recruitment, training and scheduling
• Strategically cultivates and stewards relationships with community members and partners; willingness to diversify collaborations to reach new audiences
  · Promotes collaboration and efficiency through best museum practices in developing program content and exhibition interpretation
• Works with curatorial department to develop interactive components for exhibitions
• In partnership with development staff, initiates, plans, and manages grants that support audience engagement efforts; assists in general cultivation
• Trains and oversees the docent program
• Develops departmental related budgets; makes adjustments throughout the year as necessary
• Represents the engagement department to the public and acts as a spokesperson when needed
• Assists in fundraising to support engagement programs
• Other duties and special projects as assigned

Required Qualifications:

  Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art, Education, History, Museum Studies, or related field

• Minimum of 2 year’s relevant experience in interpretation, public programming, or education at a museum, historical site, zoo, archive, or other institution of informal learning
• 2 years of personnel and volunteer management experience
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, public speaking, and critical thinking skills
• Knowledge of curriculum standards, learning and teaching strategies, visitor engagement, interpretive techniques, curatorial practices, museum ethics and principles
• Ability to work collaboratively and organize groups such as committees and teams
• Basic computer skills, proficiency with MS Office Suite and database systems; willingness to learn advanced computer skills
• Successful candidates will demonstrate a deep understanding of how to engage cross-generational and diverse audiences, with a welcoming and accessible approach
  · Knowledge of current education, education for those with disabilities, and visitor experience theories
• Innovation, versatility, energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm are key qualities for this position
  · Flexibility and respect for cultural diversity
• Must be comfortable in front of tours, public events, and audiences of all sizes both formal and informal
• Discretionary judgment regarding confidential information
• Ability to work a flexible schedule; willingness to travel periodically, and work occasional evenings and weekends as needed
• Valid NE driver’s license, or willingness to get this

Preferred Qualifications:

• Graduate degree in related field
• 5+ years of relevant experience in interpretation, public programming, or education at an art museum
• 5+ years of personnel and volunteer management experience
  · 2+ years of teaching or tutoring in the visual arts pre-k – 12 in a school, museum, or other arts center

HOW TO APPLY: To ensure full consideration, please submit all application materials before review date May 14, 2022. For more information and to apply visit UNK Employment Opportunities. For more information about the position contact: Gina Garden at  mona@unk.edu or 308-865-8260. For more information about the online application process contact: 308-865-8516 or employment@unk.edu.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:  With contingent offer of employment, the University of Nebraska will conduct an investigation of employment records, educational records, criminal records, and other records to verify the information provided in your application and/or any additional information you have provided is accurate.  Salaries at the University of Nebraska at Kearney are competitive.  The University provides a flexible benefits program at minimal cost to the employee. NuFlex benefit choices include a Medical Plan and Prescription Drug Program, Vision Care, Dental Plan, LTD, Life Insurance, AD&D Insurance, Dependent Life Insurance, Long Term Care Insurance, and Reimbursement Accounts for Health and Dependent Care.  The Employee and Dependent Scholarship program is also available to eligible employees.  Basic Retirement Plan options include TIAA and Fidelity.

The University of Nebraska at Kearney, serving over 6,200 students, is one of four University of Nebraska campuses. Established in 1905, the University has a tradition of emphasis in scholarly teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels in a variety of disciplines. Kearney, a progressive city of over 33,000, is the educational, medical, cultural, commercial, and agricultural center of a large mid-state area. http://www.unk.edu/

The University of Nebraska at Kearney is responsive to University issues which support a diverse work and academic environment.  The University of Nebraska at Kearney does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. This policy is applicable to all University administered programs including educational programs, financial aid, admission policies and employment policies.  UNK is an Affirmative Action Equal Opportunity employer. Veterans and persons with disabilities encouraged to apply. The University affirms a policy of equal educational and employment opportunities, affirmative action in employment and nondiscrimination in providing services to the public. University employees, students and others associated with the University who have not received the benefits of these policies, are encouraged to contact the Chief Compliance Officer/ADA Coordinator.

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