Curator of 19th-Century African American Artifacts

Responsibilities and Accountabilities

 Cataloging all Crippen House artifacts; construct a database of all materials, including

provenance.

 Research collections, artifacts, and items, working to authenticate and identify pieces.

 Develop a compelling narrative centered on African American life in 19th-century Long

Island.

 Design the initial exhibition for display at a partner institution, including layout, object labels,

wall text, and other materials.

 Collaborate with exhibit designers, educators, and partner-museum staff to ensure historical

accuracy and visitor engagement.

 Create a modular, portable mini-exhibit for use in local schools.

 Contribute to the development of accompanying educational materials, including curriculum

guides, interpretive brochures, and virtual content.

 Work closely with the museum’s leadership to manage exhibition timelines, budgets, and

partnerships.

 Assist with communication efforts and outreach initiatives related to the engagement of

community organizations, including but not limited to houses of worship, schools, museums,

and historical societies, in order to grow both the HAfAmM’s volunteer and donor base.

 Represent the museum in public programs, media appearances, and community

engagement events related to the exhibit.

 Provide managerial oversight for educational programs; staff educational tours and programs

as needed.

Management and Administration

 Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate up to two departmental employees/interns.

 Create and manage the Crippen House education budgets.

 Represent the HAfAmM at speaking engagements and media appearances.

 Write program descriptions for newsletter and website; work with staff to promote and market

exhibitions and programs.

 Contribute to the advancement of the museum field through membership and active

participation in relevant professional organizations.

 Other duties as requested or assigned.

Education and Experience

 A bachelor’s degree in museum studies, art history, public history, education, or a closely

related field. An advanced degree is preferred.

 A minimum of three years of professional work experience developing educational and public

programs at a museum or cultural site.

 Must have 2 years supervisory and/or leadership experience.

 A valid driver’s license is required.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

 Must be outgoing, with exceptional customer service skills and the ability to establish positive

and effective relationships with a diverse public and workforce.

 Excellent organizational, project management, and communication skills.

 Demonstrated success in developing hands-on learning experiences and engaging new

audiences.

 Ability to forecast expenses and revenue, and work within a budget.

 Knowledge of current trends in educational theory, public history, and museum best

practices.

 Experience curating exhibitions, preferably in history museums, cultural centers, or

archaeological collections.

 Knowledge of 19th-century African American history and material culture.

 Experience collaborating with archaeologists and/or working with excavated artifacts is highly

desirable.

 Ability to travel occasionally to partner museums, local schools, and artifact storage sites.

 Ability to perform physical tasks (lift 20 lbs.) with physical mobility and ability to climb stairs.

 Demonstrated computer proficiency, including an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft

Suite, email, the Internet, social media, etc. Familiarity with Teams a plus.

 Ability to work weekends and evenings as necessary and pass a background check.