Position Summary:
The Museum Educator at the Portland Museum of Art (PMA) engages diverse school and adult learner audiences through interactive guided experiences, ensuring enriching experiences with the PMA’s collections and exhibitions. This role is integral to the museum's mission of making art accessible to all, fostering an environment where every visitor feels valued, understood, and empowered. The Museum Educator facilitates educational initiatives for grades Pre-K through 12 and for adult groups of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
Job Functions:
1. Educational Program Delivery and Facilitation
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Leads interactive experiences for PK-12 school groups, college and university groups, and adult learners.
- Tailors educational content and facilitation methods to meet diverse audience needs, learning styles, and accessibility considerations.
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Ensures tour materials and educational aids are current, effective, and aligned with the PMA’s educational goals.
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Operates interpretive tools and devices as needed during tours.
2. Visitor Engagement and Program Improvement
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Collaborates with the Safety and Security team to coordinate tour logistics, tour preparation, and to address specific visitor needs.
- Fosters inclusive and engaging interactions with all visitor groups.
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Continuously improves the tour experience by incorporating visitor feedback into facilitation practices.
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Maintains high safety standards during tours.
3. Team Collaboration
- Coordinates with the Education team.
- Shares resources and strategies with fellow educators to enhance program effectiveness.
4. Professional Development
- Uses a variety of educational tools and techniques to enhance visitor understanding and enjoyment.
- Participates in ongoing training and professional development to stay informed about best practices in museum education and visitor engagement.
5. Schedule and Availability
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Availability on weekends and summer months preferred.
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Facilitates 6-8 tours per month, totaling approximately 8-10 hours, plus additional hours for training.
Schedule and Availability
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Availability on weekends and summer months preferred.
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Preference for those who are able to commit to two full years
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Facilitates 6-8 tours per month, totaling approximately 8-10 hours, plus additional hours for training.
Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s or Associate degree, or equivalent professional experience required.
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At least 2 years of experience in teaching, preferably with youth within a museum or educational setting.
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A combination of related education, certifications, and experience may be considered.
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Experience engaging with diverse audience groups, adapting educational content to various learning styles, preferred.
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Experience or interest in visual arts, historical education, or related fields is beneficial.
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Experience with local school districts, preferred.
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Multilingual, preferred.
Standards of Excellence:
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Strives to maintain a friendly and welcome attitude toward all.
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Builds positive relationships through kindness, respect, and attentiveness.
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Respects and is sensitive to diverse cultures, orientations, and perspectives.
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Supports inclusivity by promoting equity and addressing barriers.
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Communicates effectively and professionally.
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Adheres to the PMA brand charter and style guide.
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Delivers exceptional customer service in all visitor areas.
- Works collaboratively to achieve common goals.
- Inspires and motivates others.
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Demonstrates responsibility, reliability, and ethical behavior.
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Always follows safety protocols and procedures.
Other Requirements:
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Successfully pass a background check and any required pre-employment screenings.
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Valid State of Maine Class C driver’s license, preferred.
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Occasional regional travel for specialized training or to support programs and events.
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CPR and First Aid certification, preferred.
Working Conditions and Physical Demands:
Work Environment: In-person at the PMA or affiliated sites, covering public internal and external areas.
Physical Demands: Extensive standing and walking; clear verbal communication; occasional lifting up to 30 lbs.
Exposures: Fluctuating noise levels; large crowds; outdoor exposure during events.
Other Duties as Assigned:
This job description outlines the primary duties, responsibilities, and expectations for this role. However, the employer reserves the right to modify or update job functions as needed to meet evolving business needs, with or without notice.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The PMA is committed to diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, whistleblower status, familial status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Maine Human Rights Act, the PMA provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities unless doing so would result in undue hardship. This policy covers all employment practices, including the application process. For accommodation requests, please contact the PMA’s Human Resources department.
Benefits & Employee Perks
Paid Leave – Eligible employees accrue Maine Earned Paid Leave in accordance with applicable state law.
Holiday Premium Pay – Hourly employees may receive premium pay for hours worked on designated holidays, in accordance with PMA policy and any applicable collective bargaining agreement.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Confidential resources may be available to support mental health, work-life balance, and financial well-being.
Scheduling Flexibility – Work schedules are determined by operational needs; alternative scheduling may be considered where feasible and consistent with department practices.
Museum-Related Employee Perks – Employees may have access to museum-related privileges, including PMA admission and participation in reciprocal museum programs, subject to program terms and availability.
Benefits, pay practices, and employee perks are governed by applicable laws, PMA policies, and any relevant collective bargaining agreement. Eligibility, availability, and terms are subject to change and may vary by position.
Compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, and internal equity.
