Careers

Position Title: Exhibit Manager
Department: Exhibits
Reports to: Senior Director of Guest Engagement
Job Status: Full-time, some evening, weekend, and holiday hours
Pay Classification: Exempt, benefits eligible
Salary Range: $65,000 – $85,000

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Position Summary

Guided by the Museum’s mission and strategic plan, the Exhibit Manager’s primary responsibilities include creating and/or maintaining inspirational, functional, accessible, and safe exhibition spaces at the Museum, and in some instances, out in the community.

In addition to day-to-day management of exhibitions, the Exhibit Manager will work with the Senior Director of Guest Engagement to develop both short and long-range plans and budgets for permanent exhibitions and travelling exhibitions from other institutions. Examples of upcoming projects include equipment updates in our interactive lab and the installation of a new, 2000 sf immersive experience that is currently under development and slated for a 2026 opening.

Candidates for this position should be able to demonstrate a solid grasp of industry standards and best practices, the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects, and enthusiasm for the Museum’s mission. Candidates should also be comfortable managing exhibits that employ technologies, including interactive monitors, projectors, microscopes, various computer components, etc.

Key Responsibilities

Exhibit Planning

• Work with the Senior Director of Guest Engagement to develop and implement a multi-year exhibit plan and budget.
• Identify potential traveling exhibitions that align with the mission, audience, and resources.

Project Management

• Oversee different phases of exhibit projects, which may include coordination with traveling exhibit companies, floor plans, design, fabrication, installation, lighting, and evaluation.
• Create and manage project timelines, budgets, contracts, and resources to ensure exhibits are completed and/or (de)installed on time and within budget.
• Submit documentation (including contracts, invoices, receipts, reports, etc.) in a timely manner.
• Coordinate with consultants, vendors, and contractors, as needed for exhibit design, fabrication, maintenance, and/or (de)installation.
• Work with Facilities staff to coordinate scheduling and site/equipment needs.

Exhibit maintenance

• Ensure exhibits are maintained to a high standard of function and safety.
• Troubleshoot exhibit issues.
• Develop and implement procedures for regular exhibit maintenance, updates, and repairs.
• Maintain exhibit storage area, workshop, and tool inventory.
• Manage and maintain physical and digital assets.
• Supervise exhibit technicians as needed.

Compliance and Safety

• Ensure exhibits comply with safety regulations, accessibility standards, and best practices in museum exhibit design.
• Manage risks associated with exhibit installation and maintenance, and ensure proper training and procedures are in place for staff.

Collaboration and Communication

• Communicate effectively with museum staff, stakeholders, and the public regarding exhibit plans and progress.
• Work with Programming and Guest Services staff to coordinate training of staff and docents as needed

Qualifications

Approach: Creative thinker with strong attention to detail and passion for science communication through exhibits in a museum/science center setting. Thrives in a small but highly collaborative team setting.

Knowledge/Experience: 5 years+ of proven experience in exhibit management and/or development. While other fields with transferable skills (engineering, architecture, etc.) will be considered, familiarity with museum exhibits is key. Keeps current with best practices in exhibit design and visitor engagement.

Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage and monitor projects. Communicates in a timely manner and executes the agreed-upon project timeline and budget. Experience managing floorplans and (de)installation is helpful.

Quality Control: Prioritizes accessible, functional, and safe exhibit space. Minimizes downtime when possible through regular maintenance, anticipating needs, and thoughtful scheduling.

Communication: Demonstrates strong communication and interpersonal skills. Interested in working in an organization that values collaboration across departments.

Organization Skills: A self-starter who can handle multiple projects. Is adaptable and able to prioritize as needed. Follows through on commitments. Value the time of others by being prepared and on time for meetings and responding to emails.

Team Orientation: Uses good judgment when communicating. Listens to others. Identifies team needs and expectations and responds to them in a timely and effective manner. Keeps teams (both internal and external) informed about the status of pending actions.

Due to the nature of the position, this is primarily an in-person position. There is the option for limited remote work hours (schedule and project permitting) after thirty days of employment.

Skill sets within the exhibition field vary considerably. The description and qualifications listed are not all-inclusive, but they are representative of key responsibilities for the position.