Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

Founded in 1985, the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History (CSMNH) at the University of Connecticut highlights Connecticut's rich natural and cultural heritage to inspire wonder in and expand appreciation of the natural world. We use our natural history and cultural collections and programming to tell meaningful stories that resonate with our program participants and to create opportunities for compelling community engagement. As one of four units in the Institute of the Environment (IoE), the CSMNH contributes to the Institute's overarching mission to advance research, education, and engagement concerning the environment and sustainability at UConn and beyond. We enhance collaborations among faculty members, students, teachers, and environmental professionals to engage in synergistic scholarship and educational pursuits. The CSMNH is deeply committed to decolonizing principles and practices.

This Museum Communicator and Exhibit Designer position at the Connecticut State Museum of Natural History (CSMNH, ) at the University of Connecticut blends robust skillsets 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. Creates compelling visual assets and written content for CSMNH.
2. Disseminates complex information in a simplified, accessible, educational, and enjoyable manner for community and University audiences.
3. Works with other CSMNH staff to integrate educational, marketing, and membership development efforts with programming.
4. Manages the design and production of promotional materials for digital and print media such as newsletters, CSMNH program calendars, and annual reports.
5. Assists in developing content ideas, including researching, and writing for exhibits and electronic and print materials.
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. Identifies appropriate outlets for, and disseminates, CSMNH promotional materials as needed
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. Ensures CSMNH alignment with accessibility, web, and print standards.

Exhibit Design

1. Designs graphic layouts, prepares mockups, and produces technical drawings and final digital production files for exhibits.
2. Investigates options for, and creates, visual exhibit components, including producing large-format graphics, photographs, and illustrations.
3. Translates innovative scholarship (oftentimes very dense scientific concepts), distilling themes down to accessible take-home messages for the public.
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. Liaises with external exhibit construction partners, helps develop project timelines, tracks and maintains project budgets.
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. Stays abreast of current developments and advances in visitor experience design, relevant technology and software, and accessibility standards.
8. Coordinates, moves, installs, and maintains exhibits (including interactive devices, lighting, and multimedia equipment).
9. Provides oversight and training for personnel and volunteers.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Bachelor's degree (B.A./B.S.) in Communications, Design, or related field.
2. 2 years' experience with museum communications and/or exhibit design in a museum context.
3. Demonstrated proficiency with innovative graphic design.
4. Excellent writing, speaking, and interpersonal skills.
5. Proficiency with a variety of social media platforms.
6. Proven organizational skills and experience working well independently and as part of a team.
7. Demonstrated experience taking initiative and exercising sound judgement when interpreting and applying complex rules and policies.
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. 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. Experience using Mac OS, Adobe software, and other relevant software ( e.g. , Procreate).
3. Working knowledge of and experience with multimedia design.
4. Demonstrated success in creating digital and print materials for museums.
5. Experience in training and supervising personnel and volunteers.
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: . 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 , 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 at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on September 22, 2024.

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at  .

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee's unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.

About University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut is a national leader among public research universities, with more than 30,000 students seeking answers to critical questions in classrooms, labs, and the community. A culture of innovation drives this pursuit of knowledge throughout the University’s network of campuses. Connecticut’s commitment to higher education helps UConn attract students who thrive in the most competitive environments, as well as globally renowned faculty members. Our school pride is fueled by a history of success that has made us a standout in Division I athletics. UConn fosters a diverse and vibrant culture that meets the needs and seizes the opportunities of a dynamic global society.

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