What are the responsibilities and job description for the Coordinator of Interpretation and Outreach Programs position at Brookgreen Gardens?
Coordinator of Interpretation and Outreach Programs
Creative Education • Full-Time • Murrells Inlet, SC
About Brookgreen Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens is a nonprofit cultural institution and National Historic Landmark located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Home to one of the nation’s most significant collections of figurative sculpture, alongside gardens, wildlife habitats, and historic sites, Brookgreen connects visitors to art, history, horticulture, and the Lowcountry environment. Our team is dedicated to preserving this legacy while creating meaningful, lasting experiences for every guest.
Position Overview
The Coordinator of Interpretation and Outreach Programs advances Brookgreen Gardens’ mission by coordinating and implementing interpretive and educational programs that inspire meaningful connections to the Gardens’ art, history, horticulture, wildlife, and cultural heritage. This position leads Brookgreen U, the Gardens’ lifelong learning program, and is responsible for developing and delivering training for paid Historical Interpreters and Volunteer Docents — helping ensure that every interpretive experience is engaging, accurate, and grounded in National Association for Interpretation best practices.
Key Responsibilities
Outreach
- Lead the planning, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of Brookgreen U, Brookgreen Gardens’ lifelong learning program
- Develop annual and seasonal program schedules aligned with Brookgreen’s mission, strategic priorities, and audience interests
- Research, identify, and recruit qualified instructors, presenters, scholars, artists, and subject matter experts
- Coordinate all logistical aspects of Brookgreen U, including scheduling, registration, venue preparation, instructional materials, and day-of support
- Monitor participation, evaluate attendee feedback, and use assessment data to improve future offerings
- Work with the Marketing Department to develop promotional materials and communication strategies that increase awareness and participation
- Cultivate relationships with colleges, universities, cultural organizations, and community partners to expand programming
- Assist in developing annual goals, budgets, and long-range plans for Brookgreen U and other adult learning initiatives
- Maintain records related to participation, instructor agreements, evaluations, and program outcomes; prepare reports as requested
Interpretation and Training
- Coordinate the delivery of interpretive tours and programs using approved content developed by the Collections Department
- Develop and deliver orientation, initial training, continuing education, and refresher instruction for Historical Interpreters and Volunteer Docents
- Develop and maintain interpreter training manuals, operational guides, and reference materials
- Apply National Association for Interpretation (NAI) principles and Certified Interpretive Guide methodologies to support audience-centered interpretation
- Collaborate with Creative Education staff to provide interpretive training for school groups, homeschool students, scouts, camps, and community organizations
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, education, public history, history, art history, environmental education, communications, or a related field — or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Three to five years of experience in museum education, interpretation, public programming, adult education, training, or a related field
- Experience developing and delivering educational, interpretive, or professional training programs
- Excellent public speaking, presentation, facilitation, writing, and interpersonal communication skills
- Ability to conduct research and translate complex content into accessible educational and training materials
- Ability to manage multiple programs, deadlines, presenters, and administrative details
- Ability to work collaboratively across multiple departments and subject areas
- Ability to lift up to 60 pounds and work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
Preferred Qualifications
- Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) through the National Association for Interpretation
- Knowledge of NAI principles, thematic interpretation, and audience-centered learning practices
- Experience providing initial and refresher training for interpreters, docents, volunteers, or educational staff
- Experience planning and implementing adult learning programs, lecture series, or continuing education offerings
Work Environment
This position works both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions and requires the ability to lift up to 60 pounds. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
Why Brookgreen?
Brookgreen Gardens offers an excellent benefits package including health, dental, vision, life, and short- and long-term disability insurance, 9 paid holidays, paid time off starting at 15 days annually (prorated upon hire and growing with tenure), a 403(b) retirement plan with employer match, and Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts. Employees also enjoy a complimentary household membership, complimentary guest tickets, free daily access to Huntington Beach State Park, employee discounts on food and retail, and an Employee Assistance Program — all while working in one of South Carolina’s most treasured destinations.
To Apply
Apply by clicking the Apply Now button, or submit your cover letter, resume, and a completed Brookgreen Gardens application (available at brookgreen.org/careers) by any of the following:
- Email: humanresources@brookgreen.org
- Fax: 843-235-6039
- Mail: Attn: Human Resources, PO Box 3368, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
- In person: Drop off at the Gardeners Cottage Ticket and Information Center at the garden entrance
No phone calls, please.
Brookgreen Gardens is an equal opportunity employer committed to complying with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities, and all other employment laws and regulations. It is our intent to maintain a work environment which is free of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation because of age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), veteran status, uniformed service member status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Coordinator of Interpretation and Programs | Creative Education | 08.2026