What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Specialist position at Minnesota Historical Society?
JOB TITLE: Program Specialist
OPEN TO: This job is open to current MNHS staff.
LOCATION: History Center - 345 W Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55102
RATE OF PAY: Typical starting range $59,841.60 - $65,332.80 annually, commensurate with experience
STATUS & HOURS: Full-time, regular (approximately 2080 annual hours) position.
BENEFITS: Eligible to participate in State Employee Group Insurance Program and a retirement program with employer contribution. Generous vacation and sick time accruals with additional paid holidays.
DESIGNATION: Bargaining Unit AFSCME Local 3173
POSTING DATE: September 28, 2026
DEADLINE DATE: October 5, 2026
TO APPLY: Interested applicants must apply online at the Minnesota Historical Society’s career center at www.mnhs.org/jobs and include a resume and cover letter by the application deadline date.
DESCRIPTION: The Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) seeks applicants to provide advanced leadership in program development, outreach, and resource support to various K-16 audiences.
The Program Specialist will spearhead efforts to meet the ongoing user, delivery platform, functionality, and content needs of the Northern Lights Interactive eBook; program development projects, including planning and overseeing research, development, implementation/delivery, and communication about professional development programs and curricular resources and products for various audiences, primarily K-16 teachers and students; to establish and nurture connections with community partners such as K-16 schools and districts, colleges and universities, community and professional organizations and individuals; to support and promote the work of the institution and advocate for the needs of the K-16 audience within the institution; to serve as a resource for MNHS leadership and staff on issues related to K-12 education.
SUMMARY OF WORK: 1)Lead efforts to meet the ongoing needs of the Northern Lights Interactive eBook; 2)Lead the research and development of engaging curricular resources and programs for K-16 teachers and students; 3)Work with internal and external partners to create and implement plans for delivery of new curricular resources and programs; 4)Design, develop, and implement strategies to create partnerships with schools, educational organizations, historical/cultural organizations, businesses, and community groups/leaders; 5)Participate in and actively represent MNHS in professional organizations, advisory boards, and community forums to be knowledgeable about and keep the institution informed on social studies education best practices; 6)Communicate and promote MNHS and other appropriate education resources with K-16 teachers and students.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in history, education, or humanities discipline, or related field or experience.
Four years experience working in historical research, education, program delivery or program development, curriculum development, or equivalent education/experience.
Knowledge of historical research methodology and data gathering techniques, including ability to conduct original research in primary source collections, synthesize research, and communicate findings.
Knowledge of K-12 teaching practices and types of curriculum used by K-12 teachers and students.
Knowledge of education technology platforms and practices used by K-12 teachers and students.
Computer skills necessary to develop quality project and program documentation.
General knowledge of Minnesota and United States history.
Ability and willingness to travel.
Valid driver’s license.
DEMONSTRATED SKILLS IN OR KNOWLEDGE OF:
Effective communication skills, including ability to write clearly and concisely and to communicate effectively with individuals and groups.
Demonstrated ability to work both collaboratively and independently to complete projects.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse groups and individuals.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Advanced degree in history, American Culture studies, public history, museum studies, humanities, education, or a relevant field.
6 years previous experience developing curriculum for school or museum audiences OR 6 years classroom teaching experience OR 6 years education technology experience OR a combination thereof.
8 years previous experience delivering classroom or interpretive programs to diverse audiences.
Familiarity with the Minnesota Historical Society, including K-12 programs, resources, and products.
Salary : $59,842 - $65,333