careers
manager of exhibits + facilities
what we value
Our mission is to inspire children to care about and change the world. The Museum is an innovative institution that sparks curiosity and wonder and a space where all children feel valued. In order to do this well, we need a team that reflects the dynamic and diverse communities that we serve and brings a variety of perspectives, abilities, and skills. We embrace that this work is critical to our mission and never finished. The more inclusive we are, the stronger our Museum.
the role
National Children’s Museum is a world-class institution that aims to spark children’s imaginations and encourage them to dream. Steps off the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue, National Children’s Museum celebrates the joy of childhood through science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) exhibits and programs. As Manager of Exhibits + Facilities, you will help realize this vision for hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
As Manager of Exhibits + Facilities, reporting to the Vice President of Marketing + Creative Strategy, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Museum's exhibits and facilities. As part of the full brand experience, this role will focus on creating deeper family-centered engagement and more moments of joy and learning. Your work will support the mission of the
National Children’s Museum to inspire children to care about and change the world—playing a critical role in sparking curiosity and igniting innovation for millions of children in this next generation.
what you’ll do
- Uphold exhibit integrity to ensure experiences work as intended while prioritizing guest safety, security, and engagement in exhibit content and learning objectives;
- Reinforce the full brand experience by ensuring continuity on the whole user journey from our website to the physical experience;
- Design and fabricate exhibit materials, props, and small-scale installations to support dynamic, responsive learning experiences;
- Manage National Children's Museum visiting exhibit hall program by coordinating with vendors and managing transition and installation logistics;
- Ensure the building and its systems are well maintained by working with building management, external vendors, service providers, and contractors as needed;
- Manage exhibits and facilities and custodial team members to ensure the space is kept in excellent condition with a high quality of cleanliness;
- Conduct routine maintenance, repairs, and improvements to the exhibits and facilities;
- Develop and maintain documentation of facilities and exhibits operations and maintenance; and
- Continue to improve the Museum experience by reviewing visitor feedback as it relates to Museum exhibits and facilities.
important experiences + traits for this role
- 3-5 years working with exhibits and facilities in a museum or similar setting;
- Knowledge or interest in exhibit and/or experiential design as it relates to a larger brand system;
- Creative mind-set and interest in tinkering, making, and design;
- Demonstrated skills in troubleshooting, repairing, and fabrication of exhibits and building systems;
- Experience writing, issuing, and managing RFPs and contracts;
- Previous experience working with children, particularly in settings such as museums, or programs in STEAM learning, arts, or theater;
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management skills and a proven ability to organize and prioritize work, projects, and meet deadlines;
- Self-starter able to take charge of tasks and make decisions swiftly;
- Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship;
- Be a positive, collaborative member of National Children’s Museum Team’s creative culture; and
- Passion for the mission and values of National Children’s Museum.
physical demands + working environment
- Ability to remain standing, walking, or sitting for long periods, move up to 40 lbs., and interact with children and adults in the exhibits, including a three-story climber and slide;
- Occasional work outdoors;
- Fast-paced, highly sensory, stimulating work environment due to constant noise and interaction with other staff and visitors, which includes children; and
- Must be punctual and reliable.
details
hours + location
National Children’s Museum at 1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW. Must be available to work onsite from 9 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday. Occasional evening and holiday work required. Occasional travel required.
compensation
$65,000 - $75,000, commensurate with experience and skill set. FT benefits include PTO, health insurance, dental insurance, LTD/STD/Life Insurance, 403(b).
to apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and a cover letter to hr@nationalchildrensmuseum.org with the subject line: Manager of Exhibits + Facilities
The National Children’s Museum is committed to equal opportunity for all employees and prospective employees without discrimination based upon race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, personal appearance, sexual orientation, political affiliation, family responsibilities, disability, matriculation, marital status or any other category protected by law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment at NCM, including, but not limited to recruitment, promotion, compensation, benefits, training and development, access to facilities, discipline, separation of employment and other terms and conditions of employment.