Museum Public Programs Leader

Museum-of-Western-Colorado; Grand Junction (CO); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

The Museum of Western Colorado seeks a Public Programs Manager to lead the Public Programs Department, directing strategy, planning, evaluation, and growth of family programs, lectures, and community events.

You will supervise the Public Programs Coordinator, oversee volunteers, manage budgets, and partner across departments to deliver engaging, accessible learning experiences for diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Museum Studies, Public History, Education, Nonprofit Management, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of three years of experience in museum programming, public engagement, volunteer management, education, or community outreach.
• Experience supervising staff, volunteers, or project teams; strong budgeting and program resource management.
• Proven ability to plan, manage, and evaluate public programs for diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for the Public Programs Department.
• Oversee development, scheduling, evaluation, and growth of public programs and events.
• Collaborate with curatorial, marketing, education, and community partners.
• Supervise the Public Programs Coordinator and manage volunteers; ensure accessibility and inclusion.
• Develop and manage the department budget; assist with grant reporting and compliance.
• Engage with schools, families, and community groups to expand audiences.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Museum Studies or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Scheduling systems

Database systems

Job description

The Museum of Western Colorado seeks a Public Programs Manager to lead the Public Programs Department, directing strategy, planning, evaluation, and growth of family programs, lectures, and community events.

You will supervise the Public Programs Coordinator, oversee volunteers, manage budgets, and partner across departments to deliver engaging, accessible learning experiences for diverse audiences.