Museum Experience Specialist

Description:

Brings stories to life in a dynamic, thought provoking way, under the supervision of the Heads of Content and Experience and in collaboration with community partners. Assists with researching, developing, and presenting relevant, inclusive, innovative, and visitor-centred museum experiences for diverse audiences that support and further the values of the Region of Waterloo.

Duties/Responsibilities

Assists to cultivate and promote a respectful, harmonious environment for learning and discovery that inspires curiosity, exploration, dialogue, and trust; encourages and enables a diverse population of museum visitors to explore meaningful connections between past, present and future; and fosters a loyal museum visitor base. Assists in creating dynamic community conversations and deconstructing history to better reflect our community.

Supports the Heads of Content and Experience in the development of programs, events, and hands-on experiences, to connect objects and stories stewarded by the museums to contemporary issues in the community, in line with the Museum’s interpretive plan.

Seeks out and connects with community members, under the supervision of the Heads of Content and Experience, to broaden the perspectives reflected in museum content and programming.

Assists to nurture existing partnerships, and supports the development of new affiliations with organizations and individuals that are representative of our community, to ensure museum experiences are inclusive and effectively reflect the diverse voices and perspectives of the community.

Explores, researches, and engages new stories about museum collections, sites, and spaces, collaboratively with co-workers and under the direction of the Heads of Content and Experience.

Presents programs to school students, community organizations, and the public, on and off-site, under the guidance of the Education Coordinator. Assists with program bookings and summer camp programming and delivery, as required.

Provides exceptional customer service and informs supervisor of issues that require immediate attention or follow-up.

Provides timely, meaningful feedback to supervisor to assist with evaluating programs and methodologies, based on objectives set out at the program design stage.

Supports museum strategic planning, and as part of a cross-functional team, supports the development of exhibits and associated programs.

Acts as a Museums ambassador, including occasional contact with the media.

Supports guest services, as required (e.g., greets/orients groups, processes payments, answers phones).

Assists with and/or performs daily opening and closing of site(s); event/program preparation, set up and clean up; purchasing materials/supplies; basic housekeeping and security (as required); and the care and custody of program materials, artifacts, and costumes.

Refers complex and unusual issues to supervisor for guidance and direction.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge and skills are acquired through a 3-year degree/diploma in a related field (such as but not limited to history, art, theatre), plus 2 years of related experience. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

Skill and experience developing and delivering public programs and/or events in a museum or similar setting.

Knowledge of and ability to comply with policies, procedures, and related legislation.

Analytical, critical thinking, and organizational skills to analyze, interpret, and apply research.

Communication and presentation skills to convey information so it is meaningful to audiences; build rapport and establish trust with audiences, customers, and co-workers; provide guidance and support to students and volunteers; exchange information and collaborate with co-workers; and participate as an effective team member.

Experience working with and developing relationships with diverse community members. Familiarity with principles of reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and a broad understanding of how they impact museum work.

Ability to read, research, and interpret reports and resource materials. Ability to prepare clear, concise program materials and reports.

Familiarity with and ability to learn traditional trades, domestic crafts and activities, gardening, agriculture, and contemporary counterparts.

Computer skills with ability to use software such as Microsoft Office and audio-visual equipment.
Ability to work weekends, statutory holidays, and evenings as part of a regular schedule.

Ability to travel within Waterloo Region.

Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values.

The Region of Waterloo is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. We actively encourage applications from diverse groups, including Black, racialized, First Nations, Métis, Inuit individuals, women, people with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, and are committed to equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion in the workplace.