Responsibility:    The Director of Individual Giving is responsible to the Vice President for Institutional Advancement for directing the WRHS Annual Fund Campaign, Individual Giving and Planned Giving Programs and Donor Recognition events.  The Director of Individual Giving will also assist with the Membership program and special events as needed. 

Classification:    This position is classified as full-time professional and is exempt from overtime compensation.

Supervision:    Supervises any volunteers assigned to projects regarding individual giving.

Duties:   

• Works closely with the VP for Institutional Advancement, CEO and museum directors to stimulate individual contributions to WRHS.
• Prepares and submits to VP for Institutional Advancement an annual, detailed plan for the Annual Fund and Individual Giving campaigns describing individual solicitations to meet budget needs.
• Coordinates with VP for Institutional Advancement, CEO, CFO and museum directors to implement the Annual Fund, Individual Giving and Planned Giving campaigns.
• Maintains up-to-date donor prospect lists identifying and tracking progress with donor cultivation and solicitation.
• Coordinates all individual solicitations, maintaining contact with all donors before and after gifts are committed, involving the CEO and other staff as appropriate.
• Composes and generates all thank you letters and acknowledgments for all Annual Fund and Individual Giving donors.
• Maintains the Raisers’ Edge database with all pertinent information regarding donor gifts, contact, and updates.
• Oversees the identification and research of potential sources of gift support from individuals, interacting with members of the WRHS professional staff.
• Works with the Associate Director for Foundations and Grants as necessary to monitor and meet deadlines for Foundation Annual Fund gifts to WRHS.
• Assists with Membership Campaign as necessary.
• Coordinates and implements special events for donor and member recognition.
• Works as active member of IA team on all special events and other IA activities and responsibilities.
• Maintains associations with a variety of professional organizations to remain current on professional matters in the museum, non-profit and related for-profit areas and to promote the interests of WRHS.

• The Director of Individual Giving is a professional position of Western Reserve Historical Society that requires professional experience and achievement, tact, creativity, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and unquestioned personal and professional integrity. 
• Educational requirements include an undergraduate degree in nonprofit management, communications, or a related field. 
• Professional experience should include at least five years of development work with a non-profit organization, preferably a museum or other cultural organization, and including experience developing an individual giving program.  Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential.  Good working knowledge of Raiser’s Edge required.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to Shari Kochman at skochman@wrhs.org by September 24, 2010. 

The Western Reserve Historical Society is an equal opportunity employer.

Posted 9/9/10

Museum/Historic Site Supervisor
Division of Historical & Cultural Affairs
Dover, DE
   
Opening Date:              9/4/2010
Closing Date:               9/10/2010 11:59:00 PM
Type of Recruitment:    Open Competitive
Salary:                        Yearly: $32,652.00/Min - $40,815.00/Mid 

Summary Statement:
This class is responsible for supervising the oprations of museum/historic sites and visitor services.
 
Essential Functions:
Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Plans, assigns, reviews and evaluates the work of subordinate personnel; interviews job applicants and recommends hiring; establishes and conducts staff development sessions, e.g., tour content, professional communication techniques, etc. to enhance services provided.   
• Monitors and evaluates museum/historic site operations and maintains liaison with tenants, special interest groups, community and government officials, contractors and others. Reports daily operational activities/problems to museum administrators/curators. Monitors procedures for handling revenues. Recommends and implements new/revised policies, procedures and activities. 
• Develops interpretative, creative, and age appropriate tour programs of historic sites including brochures and guides.  Participates with Curators in the planning, research, development and implementation of education outreach activities and proposals for thematic tours that complement the goals and objectives of the Division. 
• Coordinates activities with Curators regarding exhibit installation, site furnishing plans, collections conservation, revising/ supplementing interpretative activities and other curatorial functions. 
• Assists with the development of community based special events and celebrations by networking with community leaders, service organizations, special interest groups, historical societies and actively participating in planning meetings and coordinating functions.  
• Schedules tours of the museums/historic sites, assesses special needs for group tours, and oversees the surveillance of visitors, buildings and contents. May conduct guided tours of museums/historic sites. 
• Conducts museum related activities such as preparing and conducting presentations, press releases, proposing draft designs for promotional and marketing materials, participating in pre-bid meetings and contractual progress meetings, and assisting with the development of exhibits.  
• Prepares and writes a variety of operational reports such as sales, visitation, staff schedules, etc., using established forms or formats.

 
Job Requirements
The Museum/Historic Site Supervisor Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Experience in public relations, media relations or communications which includes establishing and promoting a positive image with the public, informing or influencing specific audiences through the use of internal and external communications such as public forums, journalism, writing, marketing, advertising, promotions, or special events.
2. Experience in museum practices such as collection management, research, exhibit design, management and handling of collections, preservation or maintenance of historic buildings, conducting museum educational programs or tours.
3. Experience in interpreting laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures. 4.    Knowledge of staff supervision which includes planning, assigning, reviewing, and evaluating the work of others.

 
Benefits:
To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at http://ben.omb.delaware.gov/programs/index.shtml.
 
Selection Process:
All job applications must be submitted online at - http://www.jobaps.com/de/sup/BulPreview.asp?R1=090310&R2=MEAZ06&R3=200600 The application is evaluated based upon a rating of training and experience. Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email.  Please keep your contact information current.  You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at http://www.delawarestatejobs.com/.

Accomodations:
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance. 

The State of Delaware – An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.

Posted 8/23/10

Education Support Assistant
Henricus Historical Park
Chester, VA

Duties: Under the direction of the Henricus Historical Park Education Supervisor, responsible for booking and scheduling area school district field trips to Henricus Historical Park; teaching all grade level SOL- and age- appropriate (Pre-K - adult) programs, five weekdays per week. Will provide program materials upkeep and some lesson plan and educational information packet revisions. Responsible for researching and learning educational information for each program to be implemented for various age groups. Assists in the general oversight of the Indian village as a "classroom" venue. Helps organize, coordinate and run all day camps and scout camp-ins as well as teacher in-services, workshops and educational open houses; works 6 weekends per year for special event programs. Performs other duties as required.

PLEASE NOTE: This is a temporary full time position. It is currently funded for 12 months.

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED and two years of college coursework required; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Two years of experience in teaching (classroom or museum),living history interpretation, or cultural history preferred. Good driving record required. Must not reflect a total accumulation of six or more negative points within the past three years or a major violation within the past four years. Pre-employment drug testing and FBI criminal background check required.

Contact: Cheryl Duong
Phone: 804-751-1551
Email: duongc@chesterfield.gov
Website: http://www.chesterfield.gov/

Posted 8/23/10

Assistant Site Manager
Garfield Farm Museum
LaFox,IL

1840s Garfield Farm Museum far west Chicago suburbs near Geneva, IL. M.A. in Historic Administration or related fields. On site security, animal care, gardening, event planning, interpretation, public relations, prairie restoration, volunteer management, collections, all aspects of museum management and development. Must be flexible, hard working and a team layer. Ideal experience for individual career committed to historic site anagement. Work with executive director and site manager.  Box 403, LaFox,IL 60147. www.garfieldfarm.org

Jerome Johnson
Executive Director
Garfield Farm Museum
630 584-8485

Posted 8/18/10

Director of Special Gifts
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, VA 

Department: Development 

Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, the home of George Washington seeks a Director of Special Gifts to join the Development team during an exciting time of growth and opportunity.  Our Director will plan and implement all aspects of Mount Vernon’s deferred giving program, collaborate with Development office colleagues to integrate deferred giving into direct mail, membership and major gift programs.  We look forward to the Director actively identifying and managing his or her own portfolio of prospects and donors for the capital campaign for the National Library for George Washington as well as other special projects, annual giving and membership programs.

Successful candidates will have:

• A minimum of 5 years experience in fundraising with particular expertise in planned giving
• A passion for working with individual prospects, donors, and people in general
• An interest in the Mission of Mount Vernon and eagerness to share its importance with others
• Ethical fundraising standards and practices
• Bachelor’s degree; Advanced degrees preferred
• Computer proficient, including RE, PG Calc, Microsoft Word
• Excellent communication skills
• Successful track record in raising major gifts from individuals, corporations, and foundations
• Preference will be given to candidates with experience in raising major gifts for museums and working with foundations and individuals supporting antique collections and historic artifacts. 

Please forward a resume, cover letter and salary history/requirement by email to: hrmail@mountvernon.org, by fax to 703.780.8320 or by US Mail to POB 110, Mount Vernon, VA 22121.


Mount Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Posted 7/28/10

Character Interpreter
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, VA   

Department:  Interpretation & Events Division, Office of Character Interpretation     

General Description:
Mount Vernon’s Office of Character Interpretation produces educational and entertaining experiences by authentically portraying persons from George Washington’s world, including family members, close friends, enslaved workers, colleagues, and other noteworthy contemporaries.  Character Interpreters engage guests through improvisational dialogue and staged/scripted performances.  Both approaches aim to grow guests’ knowledge of George Washington and his lasting legacy as well as life at Mount Vernon in the 18th Century.  

Mount Vernon’s Office of Character Interpretation seeks a professional character interpreter to portray an enslaved person who lived and worked on George Washington’s Estate (Possible historical figures include: Frank Lee, enslaved butler; Billy Lee, enslaved valet; Caroline, enslaved house servant; or Charlotte, enslaved seamstress).  


Essential Duties:

• Thoroughly research and portray at least one personality from Washington’s world
• Engage a diverse audience in impromptu conversation, targeting pre-determined    interpretive/educational goals.
• Research, write, and perform (multiple times daily) 10-20 minute dramatic vignettes
• Regularly adapt presentations for numerous unique occasions and various internal programs
• Maintain appropriate appearance for the person portrayed; follow all standards for 18th-century etiquette/deportment
• Assist Director in developing and implementing specialized interpretive performances and  programs including extensive research, writing and taking on new responsibilities

Special Requirements:

• Position requires standing/walking for long periods of time and being exposed to all weather conditions as most performances are outdoors  
• Dressing in 18th Century appropriate attire required (concealing modern styles/ accessories etc…)
• Frequent weekend and evening work is required

Qualifications:

• Professional acting experience - ability to perform formally and informally in a variety of settings and conditions to a diverse audience
• Knowledge of and interest in George Washington, Mount Vernon, and 18th-century America
• At least 2 years of relevant experience
• Strong research and writing skills
• Well developed interpersonal communication skills
• A bachelors degree in a relevant field of study preferred

Please forward a resume, cover letter and salary history/requirement by email to hrmail@mountvernon.org, by fax to 703.780.8320 or by US Mail to POB 110, Mount Vernon, VA 22121.

Mount Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Posted 6/16/10

Farm Manager
Coggeshall Farm Museum
Bristol, RI

          
Reports to:          Executive Director
                          (Executive Committee in absence of Executive Director)
Compensation:    $25,000 per year
Benefits:             On site residence provided, Seven days paid time off
           
The Coggeshall Farm Museum is seeking an individual to actively fill the position as Farm Manager. The job requires experience handling livestock, practical application of historic and modern agricultural skills, pleasant, skillful and knowledgeable interaction with the public, among the other duties detailed below. Experience with non-profit organizations is preferred.  The Farm Manager is required to live in the Manager’s Residence which is provided to aid in convenient on-call coverage of the Museum.

Primary Responsibilities:   

1. The Farm Manager is directly responsible for all tasks required for the proper care and maintenance of all livestock, including, but not limited to, feedings, health and safety, providing sufficient shelter, planning, and purchases.
2. The Farm Manager is directly responsible for all tasks required for the proper care and maintenance of all structures, fields, tools & equipment, fencing & walls, and accesses. Attendance is required at all Site Committee meetings.  Cooperation and adherence to the Site Committee recommendations is expected.
3. The Farm Manager will provide honest interpretation of 1790’s Bristol Rhode Island salt march farm life to the public.  Presence on site is required during regular Museum hours as well and during special programming and events. The Farm Manager is expected to collaborate with other staff and volunteers to ensure complete coverage of the site.
4. The Farm Manager will operate all aspects of the Museum in accordance with the approved Budget.   It is expected that the Farm Manager will actively participate in all efforts of the Financial Committee in the annual budgeting process.  The Farm Manager is directly responsible for proper fiscal management of all of the Museums normal operating activities.  Detailed record keeping, documentation, and organization relating to entrance fees, tour and retail income, and other income and expenses is required.
5. In collaboration with Director of Historic Interpretation, the Farm Manager is expected to demonstrate proficiency and skill in site management and operations relating to farming, gardening, animal husbandry, building and structure maintenance, and utilization of Museum tools & equipment.
6. Cooperate with the Director of Historic Interpretation to coordinate programming, event planning, tours, and scheduling.  The Farm Manager is to have an active role in volunteer recruitment and proper application of duties & training.
7. The Farm Manager is to be knowledgeable of all provisions of the current lease the Museum has with the State of Rhode Island and ensure that all farm operations, required reporting, and approvals are met.  Furthermore, the Farm Manager is expected to be actively engaged in the administration and achievement of outcomes for current and future grants.
8. Provide on-going updates to Executive Director.  Attendance is required at all monthly board meetings at which time the Farm Manager will provide a monthly report.

Secondary Responsibilities:

1. Contribute to the monthly on-line and seasonally printed newsletters with written information, articles, and points of interest in collaboration with other staff and relevant parties.
2. Help organize, coordinate, orchestrate, and oversee functions and special events in collaboration with staff and other relevant parties.
3. Facilitate in maintaining open communications with staff, supervisor(s), volunteers and others.
4. Contribute to correspondence relevant to Museum Farm Manger’s position in replying to inquiries, letters, phone calls and emails.
5. Work in conjunction with staff and Executive Director to participate in and represent the Museum in outreach to local and regional museum associations, councils and other relevant organizations and occasions.
6. Additional responsibilities and tasks may arise from time to time that are not detailed here and will be required of the Farm Manager.

Physical Requirements:
   

1. Ability to wear period attire while working on site, before the public during Museum hours and special events.
2. Ability to lift and carry at least 50 Lbs.
3. Ability to safely and competently handle poultry and large animals.

Non-Physical Requirements:  

1. Demonstrate a keen sense of fiscal responsibility and ability to keep detailed records.
2. Communicate in a professional and pleasant manner at all times with Museum visitors, guests, board members, and others involved with the farm.
3. Must exhibit sufficient and proper writing skills.  The Farm Manager will be expected to contribute to newsletters and other relevant written materials for the Museum (both printed and electronic)
4. The Farm Manager is to have two, scheduled days off in each one-week period. It is expected that the Manager will remain in residence throughout the workweek, excepting one overnight in association with a day off.
5. In addition to the normal weekly scheduled days off, the Farm Manager receives paid time off equal to seven days per calendar year. Working with the Executive Director or Executive Committee, it is the Manager’s responsibility to provide a plan of coverage for all aspects of the Manager’s position during this paid time off, in order to provide consistent, competent staffing and care during the Manager’s absence.

Please reply to:
Andy Tyska
c/o Coggeshall Farm Museum
PO Box 562
Bristol, R.I. 02809
or CoggeshallFarm@verizon.net -Subject box should read MANAGER APPLICATION

 Posted 6/11/10

Visitor Services and Retail Manager
The New York State Historical Association
Cooperstown, NY


The New York State Historical Association, Fenimore Art Museum, and The Farmers’ Museum seek a Visitor Services and Retail Manager to operate their admissions and retail museum stores with an entrepreneurial spirit, supporting the organizations’ missions and objectives and achieving financial goals.

This position manages a staff of 12-14 and establishes and maintains excellence in service to all visitors. Duties include: manage and thoughtfully analyze weekly and yearly attendance reports; master the museums’ calendar for scheduling all events and activities; promote the changing exhibitions and programs of the museums by refreshing the appearance of museum stores; supervise and continuously innovate web store operation to maximize profit; maintain all recordkeeping for admissions and stores, including daily cashups, profit and loss analyses, annual budgets, management reports and store inventory counts; supervise wider distribution of publications and products that support museum exhibitions; promote sales at special events and programs; develop new product lines by attending trade and craft shows.

The successful candidate will have managed a retail/admissions operation for a minimum of five years, preferably at a not-for-profit; is proficient in Microsoft Office and point of sale systems; has a bachelor’s degree; and has excellent oral and written communication skills. Must be highly detail oriented with excellent organizational skills. Must be willing to work a flexible schedule with some weekend and holiday work required.

NYSHA, Fenimore Art Museum and The Farmers’ Museum offer a competitive salary and excellent benefits. To apply, send cover letter, resume and three professional references to Barbara Fischer, Senior Director for Human Resources, New York State Historical Association and The Farmers’ Museum, PO Box 800, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Fenimore Art Museum, located on the shores of Otsego Lake—James Fenimore Cooper’s “Glimmerglass Lake”—in historic Cooperstown, New York, features exciting collections of American art, folk art, and the renowned Eugene and Clare Thaw Collection of American Indian Art. Founded in 1945, the Fenimore Art Museum is NYSHA’s showplace museum. Please visit FenimoreArtMuseum.org for more information.

As one of the oldest rural life museums in the country, The Farmers’ Museum, provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience 19th-century rural and village life first-hand through demonstrations and interpretative exhibits. Please visit FarmersMuseum.org for more information.

5/4/10