Director of History Education

Virginia Historical Society (VMHC); Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) seeks a Director of History Education to lead the History Education Department and expand programs for students, teachers, and statewide initiatives. Reporting to the VP for Education & Engagement, the director will set goals for tours, professional development, and Virginia History Day, while building new audiences and partnerships across the Commonwealth.

Candidates should have graduate education experience, strong leadership, and a track record

Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership in museum education and public history.
• Strong organizational skills and excellent customer service abilities.
• Knowledge of current trends in museum education and Standards of Learning.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the development, delivery, and evaluation of History Education programs and resources.
• Leads a team including coordinators, educators, interns, and volunteers.
• Collaborates across museum divisions to integrate education insights into initiatives.
• Supports professional development and outreach efforts across audiences.

Skills

Museum education leadership

Organizational skills

Customer service

Interpretation techniques

Public history knowledge

Education

Master's degree in History, Education, or related field

Job description

Whether igniting a passion for the study of the past, empowering an interest in civic engagement, or providing an introduction to the Commonwealth, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture offers meaningful experiences for all. Whatever the role, your work here helps bring Virginia's story-past, present, and future-to life.

If you are curious, creative, and passionate about preserving and sharing Virginia history, your next chapter starts now!

Position Summary:

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) seeks a qualified candidate for the position of Director of History Education, who has an authentic interest in the mission and work of the VMHC. The Director of History Education leads the VMHC's History Education Department and all aspects of that team's portfolio, including free on-site museum experiences for students, distance-learning programming for all ages, the statewide Virginia History Day contest, and teacher engagement opportunities, which collectively impacts tens of thousands of Virginians annually. Working with the Vice President for Education & Engagement, the Director will establish goals for tours, contest participation, and professional development opportunities, while continually seeking out new audiences for programming. This individual also serves as a key member of the Education & Engagement division leadership team, which includes the Civics Education, Community Partnerships, Guest Engagement, and Public Programs departments.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Oversees the development, delivery, and evaluation of History Education programs, resources, and professional development opportunities utilizing the VMHC's exhibitions and collection of more than nine million items that represent the far-reaching story of Virginia

Leads a team that includes a full-time History Education Coordinator, full-time Virginia History Day Coordinator, part-time Museum Educators, paid Interns, and volunteer Docents

Collaborate with colleagues across museum divisions to provide museum education insights related to a variety of initiatives and exhibitons

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Necessary:

• Demonstrated leadership in museum education and public history
• Strong organizational skills & excellent customer service abilities
• Ability to model effective interpretation techniques and scale content for various ages and audiences
• Knowledge of current trends in museum education, public history, and the Virginia Department of Education's Standards of Learning

Education & Experience Requirements:

• Master's degree in History, Education,or a related field of study preferred

Previous experiences developing and delivering interpretive and professional development programs for a variety of audiences

3-4 years of managerial experience in a museum setting

Notes & Special Requirements:

Medical, leave, wellness and retirement benefits offered in accordance with company policy.

Founded in 1831 as the Virginia Historical Society, the VMHC, a private, non-profit organization, is the oldest museum and cultural organization in Virginia, and one of the oldest and most distinguished history organizations in the United States. The museum cares for a renowned collection of more than nine million items representing the far-reaching story of Virginia.

The Virginia Historical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.