Director of Learning and Engagement at the Biggs Museum of American Art
Job Title: Director of Learning and Engagement
Job Status: Full-time
Location: Dover, DE
Salary: $70,000 – $80,000
Description
The Director of Learning and Engagement oversees and executes all academic, community, school, and family programs. They are responsible for all aspects of these programs including budget development, content development in dialogue with the Curator, tour creation and oversight, and all community-based events. In collaboration with development staff, they will contribute to grant proposals that support their department’s needs. This position is expected to take thoughtful and innovative steps to consider diversity, equity, access, and inclusion at every level or programming.
Responsibilities
Adult Programs
o Collaborate with artists, scholars, and partner organizations to implement workshops, lectures, and mission-related programming to support current exhibitions and the permanent collection
o Generate and manage all contracts for guest lecturers/artists/partner organizations
o Track program registration, answer queries, and communicate relevant information to participants
o Manage day-of duties including physical set-up of program spaces and orientation for guest lecturers/artists
School Programs
o Develop and present tours and corresponding activities related to the permanent collection and rotating exhibitions for groups PreK-12
o Ensure PreK-12 programs are aligned with the Delaware Standards for the Visual and Performing Arts and to develop relationships with area schools to support participation
o Manage and execute regular training opportunities for teachers
o Manage Adopt-an-Artwork program that allows participating classrooms to “adopt” a work of art from the permanent collection and incorporate it into a lesson plan; organize and mount an annual exhibition showcasing student work from the program
o Develop relationships and partner programs with neighboring collegiate institutions
o Manage off-site workshops and classroom visits; classroom visits may be held in-person or virtually
Family Programs
o Develop drop-in activities for the Museum’s monthly Family Creative Studio
o Coordinate summer Read & Make program in partnership with the Dover Public Library
o Create step-by-step prompts for self-guided activities in the children’s studio that relate to rotating exhibitions and the permanent collection
Other Duties
o Manage the Museum’s programming calendar and create a schedule to appropriately staff events
o Collaborate with Director of Marketing & Public Relations to promote events
o Represent The Biggs in print, radio, and television pieces to promote programs and events
o Manage docent program including recruiting participants, developing reference materials in collaboration with Curator, oversee training in collaboration with Curator
o Develop annual programming budget and monitor related income and expenses
o Write and contribute for grant requests to support ongoing programming initiatives
o Serve as the main staff representative for the Education Committee of the Board of Trustees
o Collaborate with the staff to create training manuals and lead training for Visitor Experience Associates to assist with tours and other programs
o Collaborate with and oversee Spanish Language Programming Coordinator to develop bilingual programming and resources for the public and community partners
o Keep informed about best practices in community engagement for museums
o Engage with museum education groups or organizations, attend relevant conferences or workshops, and present on initiatives as appropriate
o Other duties as assigned
Requirements
Education and Experience: 4-6 years formal/informal education experience; master’s degree in art history, Museum Studies, Studio Art, or Education preferred. Strong computer skills and a high comfort level with technology. Applicants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, ability, and perspectives are encouraged to apply.
If you’re excited about this role but don’t meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Please be ready to discuss how you plan to address any areas where you may need to develop further. We value diverse experiences and perspectives and believe they enhance our team. We are open to considering all candidates who are passionate about contributing to our mission.
A Note from the Executive Director
“The Biggs Museum of American Art is in the midst of an exciting period of growth and expansion, and we’re looking for passionate, creative individuals to join us in shaping our future. As the Director of Learning and Engagement, you’ll have the unique opportunity to lead dynamic educational programs and foster connections within the community. This role is perfect for someone who’s enthusiastic about engaging diverse audiences and who sees the power of art as a tool for education and enrichment. If you’re eager to make a meaningful impact while working in a fun, collaborative environment, we’d love to hear from you!” – Hassan Najjar, Executive Director
Apply
If you’re excited about this role but don’t meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Please be ready to discuss how you plan to address any areas where you may need to develop further. We value diverse experiences and perspectives and believe they enhance our team. We are open to considering all candidates who are passionate about contributing to our mission.
Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Nancy Bissonnette (nancy.bissonnette@thebiggsmuseum.org) with the subject line “Director of Finance and Operations.” Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. No phone calls please.