Public Programs & Engagement Lead

Thomas Jefferson Foundation; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 69,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent benefits package

Fitness club membership discount

Monticello cafe/gift shop discount

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

$500 employee referral bonus

Job summary

The Thomas Jefferson Foundation seeks a Programming & Engagement Officer to advance Monticello's public mission by guiding leadership, development and management of our public programming strategy. This role connects internal teams with external communities to ensure programming is thoughtfully planned and aligned with institutional priorities.

Compensation ranges from $69,000 to $78,000, with an emphasis on collaboration, program development, and community engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, or Marketing is required.
• 3–5 years of experience in public programming, museums, nonprofits, higher education, or cultural institutions is required.
• Exceptional written and verbal skills, including public speaking and presentation skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Experience with history/museum studies or community outreach is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the institutional programming portfolio and annual planning process; chair the Program & Events Committee.
• Maintain the public and private programs calendar for scheduling, marketing and events.
• Manage workflows for execution of public programs and invitation-only events; develop templates and data.
• Oversee recurring program series; manage speaker invitations and logistics.
• Cultivate partnerships to broaden Monticello's audience and outreach.
• Serve as a liaison to community leaders and cultural organizations for collaboration.
• Support participation in mission-aligned initiatives and commemorations.

Skills

Public programming

Public speaking

Interpersonal skills

Written communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, or Marketing

Job description

The Thomas Jefferson Foundation seeks a Programming & Engagement Officer to advance Monticello's public mission by guiding leadership, development and management of our public programming strategy. This role connects internal teams with external communities to ensure programming is thoughtfully planned and aligned with institutional priorities.

Compensation ranges from $69,000 to $78,000, with an emphasis on collaboration, program development, and community engagement.