Curator of History

The Springfield Museums seek a visionary and energetic full-time Curator for the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History to advance the acquisition, documentation, care, and access to the Wood Museum of Springfield History object collections.  The incumbent will develop exhibitions and installations that reveal the complexity and diversity of life, business and cultural practices within Springfield and the local area. He/she will develop in-house exhibitions that engage audiences in dialogue, promote historical collections and explore relevant issues that educate, inspire, and connect with visitors. Forthcoming projects include re-envisioning the display of the public gallery spaces and participating in the development of a long-term exhibition plan that supports the Museums’ current strategic plan and mission.

The Curator of History will work both independently and in collaboration/coordination with collections, curatorial, development, public relations, and administration staff, as well as with community advisory groups, to advance the mission of the Springfield Museums. Centering the voices of underrepresented communities in exhibitions, installations, and collections in a thoughtful and inclusive manner will be of priority. This role requires a deep understanding of local history, excellent research and communication skills and the ability to engage with diverse audiences.

Duties and Responsibilities

Essential functions include but are not limited to the following:

Administrative:

·         As a member of the Springfield Museums’ management, the Curator is responsible for contributing to the mission, goals, objectives, policies, and practices of the Springfield Museums, in general and the History Museum, in specific and ascertaining their integration with department goals and activities.

·         Participate in the development and maintenance of the strategic plan for the Springfield Museums.

·         Ensure that standards and guidelines as set by the American Alliance of Museums, in all operations and activities for the History Museum, are adhered to.

·         Regularly evaluate the History Museum’s operations, collections, programs, and services, monitoring quality and cost effectiveness with intended results. Identify and introduce improvements to enhance exhibitions, installations, programs, and approaches.

·         Work in conjunction with centralized departments to ensure that all functions essential to the operation and success of the History Museum are addressed and satisfactorily provided.

·         Develop, monitor, and manage the annual budget for the History Museum consistent with objectives noted in the Strategic Plan.

·         In collaboration with the Director of Development, assist with developing projections for future years’ funding for special and capital projects.  Propose strategies, identify sources of support, and pursue fund-raising opportunities to achieve annual funding goals.

·         Contribute to grant writing and fundraising by providing expertise and supporting proposals. Manage and administer successful grant proposals.

·         Perform annual reviews for direct reports based on the duties and responsibilities noted in their job descriptions as well as agreed upon goals and directives.

Curatorial Expertise:

·         Research collections objects to develop relevancy, interpretation, and exhibition potential.

·         Research, select and propose acquisitions for the Museum’s collection. Identify potential major gift prospects and advise the Vice President and Director of Development on opportunities to acquire appropriate artifacts and support for the collections and Museum.

·         Stay up to date with current trends and scholarship in the field of History and integrate new research and perspectives into exhibition and programs.

·         Serve as a resource for scholars, educators, colleagues, and the public on matters relating to History. Provide expertise and guidance, answering questions and facilitating research.

·         Work/consult with the Director of Public Relations and Marketing when media opportunities for the History Museum are presented. Serve as the public face of the History Museum’s collections, engaging with the media, visitors, scholars, advisory groups, and the community at large.

·         Engage in scholarly work as required and appropriate, including lecturing and writing. Lead guided tours, presentations, and lectures, tailoring content to various audiences and age groups.

·         Collaborate with the Education Department to develop engaging in-person and outreach programs and events for the History Museum.

·         Serve as History staff liaison to the Collections Committee.

Exhibition Development and Design:

·         Working closely with the History Preparator and Curator of Library & Archives, propose, develop, plan, design, fabricate and install informative and visually appealing long and short-term exhibitions that showcase the Museum’s collections. Ensure accurate interpretation and contextualization and support of the Museums’ mission. Seek out loan exhibits as appropriate.  Prepare and monitor exhibition budgets.

·         Develop and maintain a fiscal year calendar of scheduled exhibits along with proposed shows for the next 3 years noting opening and closing dates, anticipated audiences, marketing/collaboration ideas, possible sponsors and assistance required by centralized departments.

·         Create interpretive materials, including labels, signage, and multimedia presentations, that convey content to visitors effectively. Ensure that permanent collections are displayed, developed, and managed consistent with a plan for their review and improvement.

·         Ensure compliance with accessibility guidelines and create inclusive experiences for all visitors.

·         Propose, research, and incorporate engaging interactive activities and digital technologies throughout the galleries for adults, families, and children, to enhance visitor engagement and understanding.

·         Collaborate with the Education Department to develop in-person and outreach programs and events for the History Museum.

·         Oversee volunteer and contractual exhibition staff.

Collections Management:

·         Oversee the security, storage, and access to the collection of the Wood Museum. Maintain the integrity and safety of the building and the artifacts within, ensuring proper storage, handling, and conservation practices. Alert Vice President and Registrar of any problems.

·         In collaboration with the Collections Management Department, maintain accurate records of the artifact collection, including cataloging, documentation, and conservation notes.

·         In collaboration with the Collections Management Department, conduct inventory assessments, monitor loans, and oversee the movement of objects within and outside the Museum.

Outreach and Promotion:

·         Actively participate in promoting the History Museum through public appearances and media engagements.

·         Participate in professional and community affiliations to promote the History Museum and Springfield Museums. Develop partnerships with academic institutions, historical societies, advisory groups, and community organizations to expand the Museums’ reach and impact.

Qualifications include but are not limited to:

·         Bachelor’s or master’s degree in History, Public History, Museum Studies, or a related field.

·         Proven experience as a Curator or Historian, preferably in a museum or cultural institution.

·         Strong research and analytical skills with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.

·         Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to find creative scholarly and interpretative exhibition paths to convey historical information to diverse audiences.

·         Passion for public engagement and a demonstrated ability to connect with visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

·         Knowledge of museum standards and best practices for collections management and preservation.

·         Familiarity with exhibition development and design, including digital and interactive elements.  Proficiency in using collections management software and databases.

·         A valid Driver’s license is required.

·         Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required for museum events and programs.

·         This position requires the incumbent to work onsite.

This position offers the following benefits:

·         Healthcare: medical, dental, vision insurance

·         100 % employer paid short term disability insurance

·         Long term disability insurance

·         Term and voluntary life insurance

·         Critical Illness insurance

·         Accident insurance

·         Flexible spending account (FSA)

·         Generous paid time off

·         401(k) retirement plan

·         Family Membership to the Springfield Museums

·         Generous discounts for Museum School courses

·         Museum Store discount

·         Free parking

Individuals interested in applying for this position should submit their resume and cover letter by November 26, 2023 to: hhaskell@springfieldmuseums.org.

The Springfield Museums is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace, dedicated to fair and inclusive employment practices for all individuals.