Director of Learning and Engagement

University of Nebraska System -
Kearney, NE

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Job Details

Full-time
$50,000 a year

Qualifications

Volunteer support
Crowd interaction
Computer operation
Confidential information handling
Volunteer management
Educational volunteer program coordination
Presentations for conferences or internal meetings
Educational talks
Volunteer coordination program management
Team management
Volunteer coordination
Educational innovation
Productivity software
Exhibition interpretation
Database software proficiency

Full Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Director of Learning and Engagement is responsible for the development, management, and evaluation of all engagement programs serving all audiences of MONA. The Director of Learning and Engagement collaborates with other Museum staff members to provide a comprehensive art education curriculum, ensuring that all programming, both on-site and virtual, fulfills the mission and vision of the Museum.In alignment with MONA’s mission, creates, develops, implements and evaluates learning, outreach, and public programming for a wide range of museum visitors onsite, online, and in the larger community. As part of the senior management team, coordinates programming and exhibition schedules to ensure high-quality offerings and interdepartmental coordination

Coordinates innovative engagement opportunities (digital and in-person presentations, lectures, activities, workshops, special events). Willingness to take risks and experiment with nontraditional programs and events

Manages education and engagement activity volunteers, and oversees education volunteer staff programs including recruitment, training and scheduling of MONA Docent Program

Responsible for the creation and implementation of a formal education program which complements school curriculum, supports state educational standards, engages students, and fulfills teachers needs

Actively manages education and engagement activity volunteers, including recruitment, training and scheduling

Strategically cultivates and stewards relationships with community members and partners; willingness to diversify collaborations to reach new audiences
Promotes collaboration and efficiency through best museum practices in developing program content and exhibition interpretation

Works with curatorial department to develop interactive components for exhibitions

In partnership with development staff, initiates, plans, and manages grants that support audience engagement efforts; assists in general cultivation

Develops departmental related budgets; makes adjustments throughout the year as necessary

Represents the engagement department to the public and acts as a spokesperson when needed

Assists in fundraising to support engagement programs

Other duties and special projects as assigned

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art, Education, History, Museum Studies, or related field

Minimum of 2 year’s relevant experience in interpretation, public programming, or education at a museum, historical site, zoo, archive, or other institution of informal learning

2 years of personnel and volunteer management experience

Excellent organizational, interpersonal, public speaking, and critical thinking skills

Knowledge of curriculum standards, learning and teaching strategies, visitor engagement, interpretive techniques, curatorial practices, museum ethics and principles

Ability to work collaboratively and organize groups such as committees and teams

Basic computer skills, proficiency with MS Office Suite and database systems; willingness to learn advanced computer skills

Successful candidates will demonstrate a deep understanding of how to engage cross-generational and diverse audiences, with a welcoming and accessible approach
Knowledge of current education, education for those with disabilities, and visitor experience theories

Innovation, versatility, energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm are key qualities for this position
Flexibility and respect for cultural diversity

Must be comfortable in front of tours, public events, and audiences of all sizes both formal and informal

Discretionary judgment regarding confidential information

Ability to work a flexible schedule; willingness to travel periodically, and work occasional evenings and weekends as needed

Valid NE driver’s license, or willingness to get this

Preferred Qualifications:

Graduate degree in related field

5+ years of relevant experience in interpretation, public programming, or education at an art museum
5+ years of personnel and volunteer management experience
2+ years of teaching or tutoring in the visual arts pre-k – 12 in a school, museum, or other arts center

About Us:

The Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA) celebrates the history of Nebraska’s visual art for diverse audiences. MONA collects, preserves, researches, exhibits, and interprets the work of artists who were born, lived, trained, or worked in Nebraska or who created artworks that reflect the culture of Nebraska. As the home of Nebraska’s official state art collection, the Museum of Nebraska Art endeavors to be the cultural center for Nebraska art and artists by providing quality exhibitions and programs, by expanding its collection, and by preserving its historic building. MONA looks to the future for the growth of its operations and facilities,

Information at a Glance

Req Id: 1476

Campus Name: University of Nebraska Kearney (UNK)

Org Unit: Museum of Nebraska Art

Job Location: Kearney, NE 68847

Application Review Date: 10/31/25

Open Until Filled: Yes

Advertised Salary: $50,000 - higher salary may be available based upon qualifications

Job Type: Full-Time

Faculty Appointment:

Worksite Eligibility: On-site

Benefits Eligible: Yes

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