Description

The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley (MSV) is seeking a creative, collaborative, and audience-centered Manager of Adult Learning to develop engaging educational and public programs that connect adults with the Museum’s collections, exhibitions, historic sites, gardens, and regional history and culture.

In this role, you will create opportunities for adults to explore new ideas, learn from artists and experts, and connect with the MSV through lectures, talks, workshops, gallery experiences, outdoor programs, tours, and group experiences.

This position is Full-Time/Exempt, reporting to the Director of Education. You will lead adult program development and management, cultivate relationships with presenters and community partners, coordinate program operations and budgets, and use audience feedback to strengthen future programming.

WHAT YOU'LL OWN:

• Collaborate with the Director of Education, Manager of Youth & Student Learning, and colleagues to develop the annual Education Department programming plan, calendar, priorities, and goals.
• Research, develop, implement, and evaluate adult programs inspired by MSV collections, exhibitions, historic sites, gardens, natural resources, and regional history and culture.
• Create lectures, workshops, gallery and exhibition programs, outdoor experiences, tours, and other learning opportunities that respond to adult audience interests.
• Build relationships with speakers, scholars, artists, instructors, and community partners to develop engaging programs aligned with the MSV’s mission.
• Coordinate with colleagues on program planning, promotion, staffing, interpretation, and adult group experiences; develop tour and educational content with the Education Coordinator and Arts & Education colleagues.
• Manage assigned program budgets with the Director of Education, monitor revenue and expenses, and negotiate presenter and contract staff agreements within MSV policies and approval procedures.
• Oversee program logistics with the Education Coordinator and appropriate staff, including registration, payments, presenter arrangements, materials, room setup, audiovisual needs, and staffing.
• Train, mentor, and provide program-specific guidance to part-time Educators and select volunteers in collaboration with the Director of Education.
• Evaluate attendance, audience feedback, participation, financial results, and other measures to improve programs and inform future decisions.
• Support Youth & Student Learning, MSV Makerspace programming, and other Education Department initiatives as needed; participate in professional development and perform other duties that advance the organization.

Requirements

WHAT YOU BRING:

We’re looking for someone who combines thoughtful program design with strong organization, clear communication, and a welcoming approach to adult learning. The ideal candidate enjoys working with colleagues and community partners and turning audience interests into meaningful Museum experiences.

Minimum qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience in museum education, art education, museum studies, public history, education, humanities, arts administration, or a related field.
• At least two years of relevant experience developing and implementing educational, public, cultural, or community programs.
• Familiarity with museum and museum education practices, particularly interpretation, gallery learning, and program evaluation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office/Microsoft 365 and comfort with, or the ability to learn, audiovisual systems, registration systems, and other program technology.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• Experience in a museum, historic site, arts organization, or similar cultural or nonprofit institution.
• Experience with program budgets, contracts, presenters, vendors, or similar administrative responsibilities.
• Knowledge of, or interest in developing knowledge of, Shenandoah Valley history, culture, art, decorative arts, gardens, and related subjects.

ATTRIBUTES:

• Organized and adaptable, with strong project-management skills and the ability to work independently, manage multiple programs, and respond to changing deadlines and needs.
• An effective communicator, with strong writing, public speaking, and interpersonal skills and the ability to engage diverse adult audiences.
• Collaborative and relationship-oriented, building productive connections with colleagues, presenters, instructors, community partners, and the public.
• Professional and diplomatic, exercising sound judgment, discretion, and composure when working with presenters, partners, and audiences.
• Creative, intellectually curious, and resourceful, with an attentive approach to program design and the overall audience experience.
• Committed to inclusive, accessible, welcoming, and service-oriented experiences for people with diverse backgrounds, abilities, and needs.

THE WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Adult learning at the MSV takes place across a varied campus. You may facilitate a gallery experience, coordinate a lecture or workshop, welcome a presenter, lead an outdoor program, or prepare materials and equipment for a group visit.

Work in galleries, classrooms, event spaces, historic areas, gardens, outdoor spaces, and other locations across the MSV campus.
Move regularly throughout Museum spaces and stand or walk for extended periods during programs.
Set up, move, or prepare program materials and audiovisual equipment.
The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

YOUR SCHEDULE:

This is a full-time, exempt position with a 40-hour workweek and eligibility for hybrid work. Work is performed primarily during daytime hours, Monday through Friday, with regular evening and weekend availability required to support programs and events.

Daily schedules may vary based on programming, meetings, events, and operational needs. On-site availability is required for program delivery, collaboration, and interaction with Museum audiences, presenters, and partners. Remote work arrangements require supervisor approval and follow MSV’s Hybrid & Remote Work Policy.

BENEFITS:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and Disability Insurance.
• A 403(b) employer contribution of 5% of annual salary after one year of employment.
• Paid vacation leave, sick leave, and holiday time.
• Complimentary individual or family MSV membership and individual Virginia Association of Museums (VAM) membership.
• Reduced membership costs at Valley Health Wellness & Fitness Center.
• Daily access to the MSV’s gardens, museum galleries, and more than three miles of fully accessible trails.

WHY WORK AT THE MSV?

The MSV’s mission is to preserve and enrich the cultural life and heritage of the Valley. Located in Winchester, Virginia, its 214-acre campus brings together museum galleries, the Glen Burnie House, seven acres of gardens, and The Trails at the MSV, a free-admission art park.

As Manager of Adult Learning, you’ll help people connect with this special place through programs that spark curiosity, encourage conversation, and deepen understanding. You’ll join a diverse, energetic, and talented team and contribute to an inclusive, equitable, and accessible community where people feel a sense of belonging.

If you enjoy creating engaging programs, building community relationships, and helping adults discover something new, we would love to hear from you!