MUSEUM MANAGER

Job Summary: This position is responsible for managing, marketing and promoting the Big Shoal Heritage Area, including the Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum (AJFM) and the Big Shoal Cemetery. This position reports to the Recreation Superintendent.

Major Duties:

• Manages, develops, and coordinates the exhibit activities and programs of the AJFM, working closely with the Friends of the Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum Board of Directors.
• Coordinates the historic preservation efforts of the City as it relates to the Big Shoal Heritage Area, the Atkins- Johnson Farm and Museum and the Big Shoal Cemetery.
• Serves as staff liaison to the Friends of the Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum and various tourism-related organizations within the county, Kansas City metropolitan area and the State of Missouri. Associate with various organizations, such as: Gladstone Economic Betterment Council; Mid-American Regional Council; Freedom Frontier National Heritage Area; Heritage League of Greater Kansas City; Missouri Association of Museums and Archives; American Association of State and Local History; and American Alliance of Museums.
• Plans and coordinates the marketing efforts of the museum, and coordinates Friends of the Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum marketing efforts with City efforts.
• Attend City Council and Parks Advisory Board meetings, as needed.
• Responsible for building relationships and partnerships to further the goals of the City’s historic or heritage-related efforts.
• Coordinate funding opportunities for historic preservation, tourism-related marketing, and education; and assist with City historic preservation efforts.
• Site management; museum collections management; and content management of social media related to AJFM.
• Continual research, exhibit design, coordination of traveling exhibits and programming. Responsible for programs, such as: Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum rotating and permanent exhibits; Atkins-Johnson Farm and Museum Historic Preservation/Restoration Project; Big Shoal Heritage Area marketing; Activities and programs of the Big Shoal Heritage Area; and Grants for historic preservation and tourism-related marketing.
• Develop and facilitate existing and new museum education programs, special events and public programs.
• Attends monthly AJFM meetings.
• Assists with developing the AJFM fiscal budget.

Knowledge Required by the Position:

• Knowledge of tourism-related principles, practices and techniques.
• Knowledge of historic preservation and museum standards.
• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of marketing, public relations and promotion.
• Knowledge of ethical principles and professional practices governing historical preservation and fundraising.
• Skill in social media, web development/management and branding.
• Skill in fundraising (ability to increase base of financial support).
• Skill in grant writing and grant management.
• Skill in working with individuals and group(s) of dedicated volunteers.
• Skill in the operation of computers, various software programs and other standard office equipment.
• Skill in oral and written communication – persuasive and informative; skill in public speaking.
• Ability to manage details with consistency and clarity.
• Ability to balance numerous projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse staff.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the completion of a baccalaureate degree in a course of study related to the occupational field. A Master’s in museum studies, history, public history, archeology or related field is preferred.
• Experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the diverse objectives and functions of the museum environment, historic preservation, tourism standards and practices, and experience with volunteer management. Three to five years of museum experience is preferred.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of Missouri for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.

Salary : $50,131