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Executive Director, Historical Society of Montgomery County, Norristown
The Historical Society of Montgomery County (HSMC) seeks a full-time Executive Director (ED). The compensation package is negotiable depending on experience and qualifications; $60-80k with some benefits. The Executive Director is the face and chief spokesperson of HSMC. The selection committee is looking for someone who:
- Has a 21st century vision for preserving, interpreting and promoting the history of Montgomery County, and to educating the public about the region’s ongoing cultural story.
- Has a desire and aptitude to work with the board of trustees to update and implement a diverse and creative strategic plan.
- Is dedicated to working in-person with a wide variety of people and interests.
- Is flexible with respect to the changing and challenging environment, such working some weekends, some evenings, etc., which is common to historical societies.
- Has a history of success in fundraising and development.
- Has at least 5 years senior leadership experience with an advanced degree in Museum Management, American History or other related fields.
- Familiarity with PastPerfect, Adobe’s Creative Cloud products, WordPress, and Quickbooks would be beneficial.
About HSMC – The Historical Society of Montgomery County has long been a standard bearer in its mission to preserve, interpret, promote and educate the public about the history and ongoing cultural story of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
Established in 1881, HSMC maintains two sites – its headquarters at 1654 DeKalb St., Norristown, PA and Historic Montgomery Cemetery, 1 Hartranft Ave, West Norriton, PA. Established in 1847. The Historic Montgomery Cemetery is the final resting place of five Civil War generals, over 400 veterans, and approximately 6,000 prominent and typical county citizens. The Cemetery Gatehouse includes a rentable space that includes a meeting room, a restroom, and kitchen on the first floor, and a leased efficiency apartment on the second floor. The ED manages both.
HSMC headquarters contains an excellent collection of artifacts, unique to Montgomery County, a research library, collections and archival storage, exhibit gallery, general meeting rooms, and offices. A full-time curator and part-time archivist are integral in assisting and in some cases leading our many events, presentations, publications, classes and online media.
Scope: The Executive Director (ED) is the chief executive and administrator of the HSMC, and is responsible to the President and Board of Trustees for a full range of activities: identification of needs/implementation of goals; supervision of staff; management of the Historic Montgomery Cemetery; monitoring and implementation of events; motivation and supervision of volunteers; membership development; coordination of publications; financial development; general bookkeeping; website and social media development; liaison with the Society’s Board of Trustees, members, business community, and other non-profit organizations.
Online Presence –
Website: https://hsmcpa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hsmcpa.org
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hsmcpa
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hsmc_pa/
To apply – Please send your resume, cover letter, references and salary requirements to:
Board of Trustees – jobs@hsmcpa.org
Deadline to apply: 12/13/24
(Posted 10/11)
Museum Educator 2, Pennsylvania Military Museum, Boalsburg
Do you have a passion for history and enjoy sharing your knowledge with others? If so, join us at the Pennsylvania Military Museum within the Historical and Museum Commission as a Museum Educator 2. Becoming an essential part of our team gives you the opportunity to preserve and interpret commonwealth and United States history for current and future generations.
We are seeking a skilled, energetic professional to engage museum visitors of all ages, abilities, and demographics in the exploration and discovery of the commonwealth’s significance in U.S. military history. The position provides active leadership in the development, implementation, promotion, and evaluation of educational programs and interpretation related to the mission of the Pennsylvania Military Museum. This includes but is certainly not limited to interactive tours, workshops, lectures, virtual programs, exhibits, special events, and historical demonstrations.
If you like to develop and conduct programming for school-age children and adults of all abilities and backgrounds as well as serve the public, apply today to continue your career at one of the commonwealth’s most meaningful historic sites.
Closing date: 10/24/24
Salary range: $58,035.00 – $88,235.00
Please click here to see the full position description and apply.
(Posted 10/7)
Museum Educator 1, Cornwall Furnace, Cornwall
The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission is seeking a skilled, energetic person to educate museum visitors of all ages about the history of iron manufacturing and the people who worked at and owned Cornwall Iron Furnace.
This position is assigned to the Cornwall Iron Furnace historic site, located in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. The Museum Educator 1 assists in the scheduling, development, implementation, promotion and evaluation of public educational and interpretive programs and museum exhibits that support the site’s mission.
If you have an interest in history, if you like to develop and conduct programming for school-age children and adults, and if you enjoy serving the public, apply today to continue your career at one of the Commonwealth’s most unique museums.
Closing date: 10/25/24
Salary range: $50,836.00 – $77,321.00
Please click here to see the full position description and apply.
(Posted 10/7)
Museum Educator, Wagner Free Institute of Science, Philadelphia
The Wagner Free Institute of Science seeks a full time Museum Educator. This position works as part of the Education Department to plan and implement museum-based programming including lessons for school groups, Saturday programs and college/adult tours. Responsibilities include leading and scheduling field trips for school and other community groups and coordinating visits for college and adult groups. The Museum Educator is one of the public-facing positions at the Wagner that helps supervise visitor services and assists with visitor engagement, in addition to leading the museum’s scheduled group visits. The position works closely with the Director of Children’s Education and other education staff on the planning of special events and development of new programming. They collaborate with staff across the institution including collections and museum staff, to support program delivery and promotion. The Wagner serves an exceptionally diverse audience, including all ages and backgrounds. It was founded to make science accessible through free programs for adults and is committed to educational equity as a central focus of its mission. All Wagner staff have contact with the public, and are trained to engage with museum visitors, work in a historic site and be part of a team that works to keep the collections and programs accessible to all.
Responsibilities:
Manage group visit calendar and communicate with group leaders to schedule field trips and museum visits
Lead lessons and manage groups in the museum
Develop and maintain stock of materials for museum visitors and group tours and lessons
Collaborate with appropriate staff to schedule and deliver programs for college and adult groups
Collect and review evaluations from visiting group leaders and maintain group visitor statistics
Lead planning for public weekend programs
Deliver outreach programming as needed
Steward teaching and historic collections as it pertains to the field trip experience
Promote and distribute program offerings to community and other audiences, both print and electronic
Serve as mentor and partner for interns
Orient and support visitors in the museum, including gift shop
Represent museum in community and citywide collaborations
Participate, plan and contribute to Wagner programs and events, as needed
Other duties as assigned
Skills:
Detail oriented, excellent organizational, and written communication skills
Outstanding time management skills
Ability to work collaboratively, independently, creatively, and to take initiative
Strong computer and software application skills
Must work well with the public, possess excellent public speaking skills
Growth mindset to foster positive workplace Desired Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or 2 years of relevant experience
Experience and/or demonstrated interest in museums, natural science, history of science, and collections
Commitment to team process and fostering a collaborative working environment
Enjoys teaching children across a wide range of ages and socio-economic backgrounds, and working with classroom teachers
Criminal background checks required
Availability to work periodic evenings and Saturdays
Experience, connection and/or work within North Philadelphia desirable
Commitment to advancing equity Additional
Requirements:
Ability to navigate stairs to access the Wagner’s 2nd floor gallery.
Ability to handle the physical demands of groups in museum and classroom settings.
Criminal background checks.
FSLA Status: Exempt Compensation: This a full-time position. Salary range, commensurate with experience. $35,000-$39,000.
The Wagner provides a generous benefits package that includes comprehensive medical insurance, retirement plan and vacation/leave time.
To apply: Please email a resume, cover letter, and 3 references (in pdf format) to: jacoby@wagnerfreeinstitute.org. Please use as a subject line: “Museum Educator Application” We will review applications as they come in. No telephone or walk-in inquiries. The Wagner Free Institute of Science is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes a diverse pool of candidates. A National Historic Landmark, the Wagner’s building is not ADA accessible. Stairs are required to enter the building and to access the second floor of the museum. The Wagner requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination will be required for employment.
(Posted 9/23)
Executive Director, Lehigh County Historical Society, Allentown
The Lehigh County Historical Society (LCHS), headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania, seeks a full-time, experienced, dynamic person to lead our efforts to engage and educate current and future generations by preserving and sharing the Lehigh Valley story of American history. The Executive Director will have proven success as an executive or senior-level professional in nonprofit organizations, such as historic sites, preservation institutions, or similar mission-driven organizations. The successful candidate will demonstrate accomplishments as a strategic thinker, team builder, fundraiser, innovator, and leader adept at translating vision into organizational action. The successful candidate will have a working knowledge of maintenance for both modern and historic sites. Reporting to the President of LCHS’s Board of Trustees, the Executive Director will assume overall executive management responsibility and supervise day-to-day operations for LCHS, creating dynamic strategic direction, visitor engagement, donor development and financial support.
Provide financial oversight and sustainability, ensure the fiscal integrity by budgeting revenues and expenditures that ensure the financial health of the organization.
Lead energetic fundraising efforts in both the public and private sectors, including grants, individual donations, major gifts, and corporate philanthropy.
Administer our headquarters Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum and other historical properties.
Develop appropriate relationships with audiences, donors, partners, government leaders, civic partners, and many others.
Cultivate a welcoming environment for all visitors.
Oversee development and implementation of programs and exhibits for all ages.
Serve as the Museum’s and Society’s primary ambassador and spokesperson, representing the organizations at events, in the media, and cultivating key relationships locally, regionally, and nationally.
Salary range: $100,000-$110,000
To apply, please email resume and cover letter to Jill Youngken at j_youngken@lehighvalleyheritagemuseum.org. Please include a detailed resume and letter of interest addressed to Stephen Gehringer, Lehigh County Historical Society Board President. Please, no phone calls. The deadline for this applicatons expires on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.
(Posted 9/20)
Executive Director, Hershey History Center, Hershey
This is an on-site executive leadership position responsible for the overall administrative supervision of the Hershey History Center, a community benefit organization based in the historic community of Hershey, PA.
The Executive Director will be responsible for sustaining the mission and vision of the Hershey History Center. This includes ensuring resources are in place to accomplish goals and build an enduring, positive organizational culture. The ideal candidate will have an adaptable approach, as well as advanced experience with strategic leadership, team management and nurturing volunteer relationships, collaborative engagement with the Board, fiduciary oversight, fundraising initiatives, and innovative program development.
Core Responsibilities
The executive director serves as the key liaison for collaborative engagement with the History Center’s Board of Directors and respective committees, staff/volunteers, and membership. The Director communicates goals, policies, and strategies of the organization while protecting the interests of mission-based initiatives.
The executive director provides primary leadership and serves as the organization’s ambassador and spokesperson in cultivating community partnerships and support.
The executive director implements fund-raising goals and devotes significant focus to fiscal programming, including signature fundraising and community engagement events, and donor and sponsor relationships.
The executive director is responsible for administration of operations for the History Center, assuming oversight and supervising all aspects of facility management, and coordination of all activities relevant to the Center’s mission.
Primary Activities
Oversees the History Center administrative functions and plans, coordinates, and directs the operations of the History Center including staff/volunteers, collections and exhibits, maintenance, events, and educational programs.
Serves as principal advisor to the History Center Board of Directors, as well as Board committees, to develop and structure policies and guidelines for new programs and specific areas of responsibility.
Implements strategic plans; works closely with the Board to develop long-term and short-term goals, to improve the posture of the History Center in fulfilling its mission.
Monitors and evaluates progress toward achieving goals and makes appropriate program adjustments, allocates available resources to support operational changes.
Develops major programmatic and revenue-producing activities and initiatives to fulfill the museum’s mission, designed to communicate historical and cultural significance of the organization and increase visitor participation.
Oversees and coordinates all activities regarding advertising and promotions, marketing, and public relations.
Produces major programmatic and annual signature events, ensuring successful coordination with other internal activities.
Administers the History Center’s annual budget, as approved by the Board of Directors, including planning, preparing, and monitoring for sustainability. Recommends opportunities for growth and development of new revenue streams, including annual fiscal reporting, capital campaign initiatives, grant contracts, and donor communications.
Cultivates relationships with major stakeholders and donors for the purposes of fundraising, including major gifts for special projects, operations and development.
Fosters growth by collaboration with community partners and other cultural, historic, and educational institutions to develop and enhance awareness of and connection to History Center programs and events.
Qualifications and skills
Creative problem-solving skills and a strong ability to work independently are critical
Adaptive ability to manage diverse programming with available resources and support staff.
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Flexibility and broad range of capabilities to support diverse, simultaneous project management, including collections management
Willingness to work occasional nights and weekends, as well as supporting on-site staffing at programs and events
Knowledge and proficiency in Microsoft Office and Quickbooks
Requirements
Relevant degree or work experience desirable in history, museum, organizational studies, or related field.
Preferred Minimum five years’ experience in organizational management, non-profit or museum-related field.
Experience with management team or board of directors.
Deadline to apply: 12/31/24
Salary info: This is a part to full time position (30 to 40 hours per week). Salary range $50,000 – $60,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience, inclusive of paid vacation and sick days. Paid health insurance is available.
Send resume and contact information to: admin@hersheyhistory.org
(Posted 9/16)
Archives Technician, Friends of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, Strasburg
The Friends of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (FRM) seeks an archives technician with responsibility for various tasks related to the management and use of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania’s vast collection of library and archival materials (including paper, photographs, negatives, microfilm, books, serials, and electronic materials), working under the supervision of the Site Administrator and in collaboration and consultation with the Curator 2, the Museum’s Collections Committee, the PHMC Collections Committee, and PHMC Collections Management. The successful candidate will have excellent written, verbal, organizational, and interpersonal skills; a strong background/interest in history and material culture; and computer, database, and multi-media skills. Some lifting of up to 20 pounds may be required.
About the Employer:
The Friends of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (FRM) was formed in 1983 and is chartered and licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as an associate nonprofit organization which assists the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in fulfilling its mission to document, preserve and interpret the rich and diverse heritage of railroading in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania hosts about 80,000-100,000 visitors annually, and FRM staff and volunteers play a key role in the Museum’s daily operations in visitor services, education, restoration, library and archives, administration, advancement and the museum store. Presently, the nearly 1,500 memberships with the FRM include guests from many US states and several foreign countries.
Work Location:
Primarily in an office setting at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA 17579. The Library & Archives are located mainly on the Museum’s second floor.
Schedule:
This is a full-time, hourly position for a maximum of 37.5 hours weekly (or 75 hours bi-weekly); some evening and weekend hours may be required. Scheduling is flexible and will be coordinated with the Site Administrator and other staff members. This position is Monday through Friday, with the workday starting at 8:30 AM and concluding at 5:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break. The Museum is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday, 12 PM to 4 PM.
Compensation:
Compensation commensurate with education and experience, starting at $19 per hour.
Minimum Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in history, American studies, applied history, museum studies or a related area.
- Experience in a museum, archives, and/or library setting.
- Effective teamwork, customer service, common courtesy, and communication skills.
- Experience working with library and archival materials (including paper, photographs, negatives, microfilm, books, serials, and electronic materials).
- A basic understanding of computer and internet-based data management.
- A familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite programs like Word, Excel, Power Point, and Publisher.
- Experience with photo scanning and photo-editing software.
Other Requirements:
- Must obtain: (1) Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check; (2) Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance; and (3) an FBI Criminal History Clearance.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Collections Management
- Interfaces with potential donors of archival material and determines whether potential donations meet the needs of the Museum, in consultation with the Curator 2 and PHMC Collections Committee.
- Helps the Curator 2 prepare acquisition and deaccession recommendations of archival and library material for the PHMC Collections Committee.
- Processes, identifies, classifies, arranges and catalogs accessioned archival and library collections.
- Re-houses archival material and delicate library items into acid-free enclosures.
- Scans and ascribes metadata tags to images for the FRM’s online database.
- Oversees day-to-day operations of the Library & Archives, including the volunteers who work there.
- Works with staff to determine project priorities and to assign volunteers accordingly.
Research
- Receives and answers incoming research inquiries, either in person, by mail, by email, or by phone.
- Fills photo orders and supplies copies of archival and library material to customers according to the Museum’s prescribed fee structure.
- Works with outside vendors to digitize archival materials when required.
- Assists in the preparation of exhibitions, including the drafting of exhibit labels and the printing of reproduction photographs and documents.
- Prepares scholarly articles for The Milepost, the FRM’s membership publication.
Other Responsibilities
- Manages budgeted funds and restricted gifts assigned specifically to the Library & Archives.
- Prepares a monthly report of activities related to the Library & Archives for the Site Administrator.
- Occasionally gives behind-the-scenes tours of archival and library collections areas.
- Attends professional meetings and conferences to stay current on museum archival and library “best practices.”
- Performs other duties as required.
- This position works in conjunction with the Site Administrator and the Curator 2.
Additional Notes: (Additional information related to this position.)
- The FRM Archives Technician is a non-exempt, regular employee (see FRM employee handbook section 201.2 and 202.0) that works 75 hours per pay period.
- The FRM Archives Technician will receive overtime pay or compensatory time for any additional hours worked in a pay period.
- The Site Administrator will conduct an annual Employee Performance Review (EPR) of the FRM Archives Technician in the first six weeks of each fiscal year. As stated in section 403.1 of the FRM employee handbook, the Site Administrator will perform periodic salary reviews for the position.
- While the FRM Archives Technician reports to the Site Administrator, they will be required to coordinate activities with other individuals, such as the Curator 2, the Museum’s Collections Committee, the PHMC Collections Committee, and PHMC Collections Management among others.
- The FRM Archives Technician will be responsible for determining work priorities based upon present needs (for example, the volume and urgency of research inquiries) and in concert with the Curator 2.
- The FRM Archives Technician will submit a bi-weekly time sheet to the FRM business office.
- The FRM Archives Technician will submit a brief monthly report to the Site Administrator on activities in the Library & Archives, including the number of research inquiries answered, scans completed, collections accessions and deaccessions processed, and data entered.
To Apply:
Please email a cover letter and resume with references to Patrick C. Morrison, Site Administrator, pmorrison@pa.gov. No phone calls, please.
(Posted 9/11)
