Description

General Summary
The Museum Educator supports all Museum functions, though their primary responsibilities are focused on interpreting the museum’s history, collections, and exhibits for diverse public audiences. Through educational programming, resource development, and community engagement, this role enhances visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the Museum’s collections and exhibits. The Museum Educator reports directly to the Curator.

Additional Details

• 30 hours per week initially, with the opportunity to increase up to 40 hours per week based on program growth, organizational needs, and successful development of the position
• Work schedule is primarily Monday through Friday, with occasional evening and weekend hours required to support events (advance notice will be provided in these instances)
• This position is primarily on-site at the Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum (located aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola) and requires occasional local travel to events & venues in the Greater Pensacola Area.
• 401(k) plan available upon meeting plan eligibility requirements
• The starting hourly wage for this position is $18 per hour, and is negotiable based on the candidate's experience, relevant skills, and qualifications.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Education & Public Engagement

• Create and deliver educational content (including but not limited to: guided tours, field trip activities, presentations, and worksheets) tailored to different ages and learning styles. Ensure alignment with state educational standards where applicable.
• Train staff and volunteers in the effective delivery of educational and interpretive content & programs.
• Evaluate educational programs and related visitor experiences through observation, feedback, and assessment; make recommendations to improve programming outcomes and engagement.

Exhibitions & Interpretation

• Develop a thorough understanding of the Museum’s history, collections, and exhibits, and translate that knowledge into engaging educational programs, materials, and experiences for diverse audiences.
• Assist with the development of interpretive materials and educational resources for the Museum under the supervision of the Curator.
• Develop docent resources and training materials to support consistent and engaging interpretation.

Outreach & Events

• Represent the Museum in public-facing settings, including community outreach events, educational events, presentations, and other public programs.
• Attend and assist with on-site events and special programs, including field trips, annual holiday events, scheduled programs, and facility rentals for guest events.
• Assist with developing educational and interpretive content for the Museum's social media platforms under the supervision of the Development & Programs Coordinator.
• Provide support for other museum initiatives, public programs, and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in History, Public History, Museum Studies, Education, or a related field
• Two (2) or more years of experience in museum, public history, education, communications, or related professional environment preferred
• Comfortable serving as a public representative of the Museum (e.g. leading tours, conducting presentations, and interacting with visitors, volunteers, community partners, and stakeholders)
• Basic knowledge of best practices for the handling of museum collections & archives preferred
• Ability to maintain a high standard of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment while representing the Museum in public-facing settings
• Technical proficiency with standard office software required
• Proficiency with design/creative software such as Canva or Photoshop preferred
• Must have reliable transportation
• Must be comfortable being on your feet for extended periods, and able to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds

Skills

• Exceptional written & verbal communication skills (including a comfort with public speaking), with the ability to communicate confidently and effectively in both one-on-one and group settings
• Ability to translate historical research, collections data, and interpretive themes into clear & engaging educational programs, tours, learning materials, and basic visual interpretive resources
• Creativity in designing inclusive and engaging educational experiences that accommodate diverse audiences, learning styles, perspectives, and accessibility needs
• Strong critical thinking, analytical, and organizational skills, with attention to detail and the ability to evaluate programs, interpret feedback, and implement improvements
• Strong organizational & time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple concurrent projects
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development through participation in workshops & training opportunities related to museum education, interpretation, public history, and related fields

To apply, please include the following with your submission: 

• A resume or CV
• A cover letter explaining your interest in museum education and highlighting the experience, skills, or perspectives you would bring to this position
• One writing sample of 1-5 pages in length. This may be a lesson plan, exhibit text, educational program description, grant narrative, interpretive writing, article, or another example that demonstrates your writing and communication skills. Excerpts are welcome if the original document is longer.