Director of Education & Engagement -- Children’s Museum of Rock County
The Children’s Museum of Rock County (CMRC) in Janesville, Wisconsin, is seeking a dynamic, creative, and mission-driven Director of Education & Engagement to lead the vision, development, and delivery of high-quality educational programs, community outreach, and engagement initiatives that inspire curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning through play. In this full-time, exempt role, you will help shape meaningful experiences for children, families, schools, and community partners throughout Rock County and beyond.
Position Overview:
The Director of Education & Engagement is a key member of the museum’s leadership team, responsible for developing and implementing educational programs, community outreach, and engagement strategies that inspire curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. This role combines creative vision with inclusive, play-based programming to ensure the museum’s mission reaches children, families, schools, and community partners throughout Rock County and beyond. The position also supports the museum’s broader goals by strengthening partnerships, expanding access, and contributing to a welcoming and responsive visitor experience.
Key Responsibilities
Education and Program Development
· Lead the planning, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs, including school field trips, family workshops, camps, seasonal activities, and special presentations.
· Develop engaging, developmentally appropriate, and inclusive learning experiences that reflect the museum’s mission and support a love of learning through play.
· Ensure programs are responsive to the needs of diverse audiences and align with educational best practices.
· Collaborate with museum staff to integrate educational content into exhibits, events, and public programming.
Community Engagement and Outreach
· Develop community engagement strategies that expand the museum’s impact and strengthen connections with schools, libraries, nonprofits, early childhood providers, businesses, and civic groups.
· Build and sustain partnerships that support shared programming, broader audience reach, and greater access for underserved populations.
· Represent the museum in local, regional, and statewide networks related to early childhood education, museums, and community engagement.
· Support outreach efforts that raise awareness of the museum’s mission, programs, and community value.
Team Leadership and Supervision
· Supervise education staff, volunteers, and interns, including hiring, training, scheduling, coaching, and professional development.
· Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and positive team culture that supports professional growth and high-quality guest experiences.
· Coordinate staff responsibilities to ensure effective program delivery and consistent engagement with visitors and partners.
· Provide regular feedback, support, and performance guidance to team members.
Budget and Administrative Support
· Manage departmental budgets, track expenses, and maintain accurate records related to programs and engagement initiatives.
· Collaborate with leadership on fundraising, grant applications, donor relations, and public communications.
· Contribute to planning and reporting efforts that demonstrate program impact and support organizational goals.
· Assist with other administrative responsibilities as needed to support museum operations.
Additional Responsibilities
· Support special events, community events, and museum-wide programming as needed.
· All other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education & Experience:
· Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in education, museum studies, child development, or related field.
· Experience in museum education, informal learning, or nonprofit program administration.
· Supervisory experience preferred.
Skills & Competencies:
· Strong understanding of early childhood education, play-based learning, and family engagement.
· Proven ability to manage projects, staff, timelines, and budgets effectively.
· Creative thinker with strong collaboration skills.
· Excellent communication, public speaking, and interpersonal abilities.
· Commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion in all aspects of work.
· Comfortable working in a hands-on environment that may involve physical activity related to exhibit installation and maintenance.
Compensation & Benefits
CMRC offers a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience, along with opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
About the Children’s Museum of Rock County
The Children’s Museum of Rock County inspires curiosity, creativity, and community connections through hands-on play and learning. As the museum continues to grow, the Director of Education & Engagement will play a vital role in deepening community relationships, expanding access, and creating meaningful educational experiences for children and families across Rock County and beyond.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the Director of Education & Engagement position. Include “Director of Education & Engagement -- CMRC” in the subject line; applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Submit resume and cover letter to Kent Anderson, Executive Director, at [email protected].
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
