This Museum Communicator and Exhibit Designer position at the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History (CSMNH) at the University of Connecticut blends robust skill sets related to effective science communication and exhibit design for all museum audiences. Idea development and implementation are at the core of what we are seeking. Our ideal candidate will have significant experience and proficiency in museum communication within a dynamic team. Your expertise should include: the creation of varied printed materials, engaging content for social media, information relevant to exhibits and their promotion, and messages for museum fundraising and outreach. Primarily, our preferred candidate will be able to effectively disseminate complex information in a simplified, accessible, educational, and enjoyable manner. In addition, our preferred candidate will excel at creating exciting pictorial, textual, and interactive exhibit components (including plans, mockups, digital files, and final pieces that engage the public) by translating innovative scholarship involving natural history and cultural collections. You will collaborate with and provide direction for exhibit development teams within and outside the CSMNH (including faculty, staff, students, administrators, fundraisers, and partners outside of the University).

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Museum Communication

1. 1. Creates compelling visual assets and written content for the CSMNH.
2. 2. Disseminates complex information in a simplified, accessible, educational, and enjoyable manner for community and University audiences.
3. 3. Works with other CSMNH staff to integrate educational, marketing, and membership development efforts with programming.
4. 4. Manages the design and production of promotional materials for digital and print media such as newsletters, CSMNH program calendars, and annual reports.
5. 5. Assists in developing content ideas, including researching, and writing for exhibits and electronic and print materials.
6. 6. Develops and creates natural history and cultural content for social media platforms including developing strategies to expand public awareness of the Museum and our activities.
7. 7. Identifies appropriate outlets for, and disseminates, CSMNH promotional materials as needed
8. 8. Collaborates with diverse teams (including faculty, students, administrators, fundraisers, communications specialists, and outside partners) from across the State and University communities on project development.
9. 9. Ensures CSMNH alignment with accessibility, web, and print standards.

 Exhibit Design

1. 1. Designs graphic layouts, prepares mockups, and produces technical drawings and final digital production files for exhibits.
2. 2. Investigates options for, and creates, visual exhibit components, including producing large-format graphics, photographs, and illustrations.
3. 3. Translates innovative scholarship (oftentimes very dense scientific concepts), distilling themes down to accessible take-home messages for the public.
4. 4. Develops and conceptualizes exhibit ideas as part of a diverse team, including researching and writing exhibit scripts and creating comprehensive storyboards that articulate the visitor experience.
5. 5. Liaises with external exhibit construction partners, helps develop project timelines, tracks and maintains project budgets.
6. 6. Recommends and assists in the selection of CSMNH objects for exhibits; researches and recommends appropriate display housings that meet required conservation and security needs of all objects.
7. 7. Stays abreast of current developments and advances in visitor experience design, relevant technology and software, and accessibility standards.
8. 8. Coordinates, moves, installs, and maintains exhibits (including interactive devices, lighting, and multimedia equipment).
9. 9. Provides oversight and training for personnel and volunteers.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. 1. Bachelor’s degree (B.A./B.S.) in Communications, Design, or related field.
2. 2. 2 years’ experience with museum communications and/or exhibit design in a museum context.
3. 3. Demonstrated proficiency with innovative graphic design.
4. 4. Excellent writing, speaking, and interpersonal skills.
5. 5. Proficiency with a variety of social media platforms.
6. 6. Proven organizational skills and experience working well independently and as part of a team.
7. 7. Demonstrated experience taking initiative and exercising sound judgement when interpreting and applying complex rules and policies.
8. 8. Knowledge and understanding of current best practices for the design of inclusive communication materials and exhibits that are accessible to all.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. 1. 5 years’ experience with museum communications and/or exhibit design in a natural history or cultural museum context or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
2. 2. Experience using Mac OS, Adobe software, and other relevant software (e.g., Procreate).
3. 3. Working knowledge of and experience with multimedia design.
4. 4. Demonstrated success in creating digital and print materials for museums.
5. 5. Experience in training and supervising personnel and volunteers.
6. 6. Ability to work with hand tools, power tools, and equipment (e.g., large-format printer, vinyl cutter, laminator).

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, permanent position.  The hiring range for this position is $60,000 to $71,000.  The university offers a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package.  Further information is available here: https://hr.uconn.edu/employee-benefits-overview/. Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association (UCPEA).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #498462 to upload a resume, cover letter that addresses the minimum and preferred qualifications, and contact information for three (3) professional references (including email, phone number, and mailing address).  Address inquiries to Dr. Erin Kuprewicz (erin.kuprewicz@uconn.edu).

Application review begins on September 23, 2024.

This job posting is scheduled to be removed from UConn’s application website at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on September 22, 2024.