vice president of experience, education, + outreach

• Oversee the development and implementation of STEAM-based educational programming that enriches the guest experience and supports the organizational goals and mission. Specifically, you will:

museum experience

• Provide leadership and direction to a cross-functional team that provides exceptional customer service, facilitation, and educational engagements for a variety of audiences;
• Ensure that daily interactions with Museum guests are engaging, playful, and filled with high-quality learning;
• Oversee daily museum programming, pop-up experiences, field trip programs, birthday parties, virtual experiences and resources, and educational programming for community outreach;
• Refine + measure impact of current education + guest experience portfolio;
• Create, build, and engage new audiences through innovative programming;
• Maintain budgets, expenditures, programming schedules, and databases of relevant contacts of interest;

education

• Oversee and monitor development and implementation of STEAM-based education experiences and public programs, both at the Museum education and at off-site outreach events;
• Participate with leadership to develop and communicate education strategy that furthers the vision and mission of the Museum;
• Represent the Museum’s mission and maintain an awareness of current early education trends through presentations, participation in professional panels, and STEAM Learning Collaborations;
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with networks, administrators, educators, families, and organizational partners.

outreach

• Cultivate and steward relationships with schools and partner organizations to engage new audiences;
• Develop a program of outreach with a focus on reaching communities for whom there are barriers in visiting the Museum (financial, geographical, etc.);
• Work with the External Affairs team to conceptualize, design, and implement dynamic events for the public.

operations management + safety

• Provide strategy, oversight and direction for daily Museum operations and develop best practices for guest services, engagement, and accessibility;
• Support staff in their work related to earned revenue, ticketing, retail sales, and visitor safety and security;
• In collaboration with facilities staff, consultants, and law enforcement, oversee development and implementation of comprehensive Safety Plan to ensure guest safety and security;
• Evaluate and communicate ongoing appropriate safety protocols for staff and guests, and manage onsite security protocols;

leadership + culture

• Identify best practices and improve internal systems with an eye on future needs and budget parameters;
• Develop and implement critical staff learning and development plans and opportunities that enhance staff effectiveness;
• Develop and coordinate a yearly program plan with measurable goals and participate in planning for programming initiatives and enterprises;
• Collaborate with the Vice President of Advancement to identify potential grant opportunities and represent educational philosophy and programs to funders.

• 8+ years supporting education and experience in a museum environment;
• Master’s Degree in Education, Early Childhood/Elementary/Special Education preferred. Courses or degree in museum studies/management, arts administration, business administration, or related field preferred;
• Prior work in or with Washington DC schools and DMV area community-based organizations a plus;
• Highly skilled at internal and external customer service with demonstrated results in effecting positive change for visitors;
• Ability to work effectively leading teams and thinking strategically;
• Proven experience in leading and building teams, and fostering a positive and collaborative working environment;
• Expert organizational and project management skills, with proven ability to prioritize and meet deadlines;
• Experience managing multiple, complex initiatives through periods of growth and change;
• Must be highly professional with the ability to serve as a public representative of the Museum;
• Self-starter able to take charge of a task once assigned, but welcoming of feedback from all staff and open to adaptation for the betterment of the Museum;
• Passion for the mission 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 our 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;
• Punctuality and attendance required;
• Availability on weekends, occasional evenings, and holidays;