Description

Under the direction of the Executive Director, the Director of Learning and Engagement is responsible for the development, management, coordination, 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.

Essential Functions:

       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

       Actively manages education and engagement activity volunteers, including recruitment, training and scheduling of MONA Docent Program

       Strategically cultivates and steward’s 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

       Works with visitor services department to coordinate and supervise visiting tour groups

       In partnership with development staff, initiates, plans, and manages grants that support audience engagement efforts; assists in general cultivation

       Develop 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

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

       Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree preferred, in Museum Education, Museum Studies, Studio Art or related field

       Minimum of 3 to 5 years’ relevant experience in interpretation, public programming, or education at an art museum, museum, historical site, or other institution of higher learning, or informal learning. Preference given to individuals with art museum experience.

       3 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, 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 obtain

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

       CPR/AED Training Certification, or willingness to obtain (MONA will provide training and recertification)

Physical Demands:

This position requires the capability to move around in a studio setting and be present in galleries for extended periods of time. Acceptable eyesight, acceptable hearing, ability to clearly communicate both orally and in writing on a telephone and on a computer for extended periods. Ability to access, input, and retrieve information from a computer or other electronic devices. Routinely requires moderate (up to 40 pounds) lifting and carrying. Routinely requires walking, standing, sitting, kneeling, stooping, reaching up, twisting, and bending.

HOW TO APPLY:   To be considered for the position, application materials need to be submitted by May 30, 2025. Application materials can be submitted at UNK Employment Opportunity Questions regarding the position can be directed to mona@unk.edu. Upon a 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 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. Veterans and persons with disabilities encouraged to apply. The University affirms a policy of equal educational and employment opportunities 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. For a copy of the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s Annual Security Report, you may contact the Office of Police and Parking Services or visit the website: http://www.unk.edu/annual_security_report