Public Programs Coordinator

The Strong offers programs for individuals of all ages to learn about the power and importance of play in their lives. The public programs coordinator is responsible for collaborating with team members on creative brainstorming, program coordination and communication, and general administrative tasks relating to the planning and execution of all public program events. This position develops guest-centered, hands-on programs with playful, educational themes that celebrate diversity, inclusion, and exploration at every age.

This position requires a dynamic individual who is passionate about crafting fun, engaging, and educational experiences for guests and members, is comfortable and able to experiment with creative ideas, and is highly organized and consistently able to meet strict program deadlines. 

Essential Functions:

• Together with the director of public programs, develop and implement public programs from the idea stage through program delivery and analysis that are accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for all guests.
• Collaborate with the director of public programs and other public programs coordinators to establish a full-year schedule of diverse and inclusive public programming that includes signature events, themed summer weeks, and recurring themed series.
• Think broadly and systematically about how programs and events fit into the museum’s mission and how such programs can and should relate to museum collections and interpretation.
• Arrange all program logistics for scheduled and assigned programs, including securing and managing supplies, booking rooms and spaces, ensuring appropriate set-up and AV support, coordinating external talent and entertainment, and training or guiding program staff as necessary.
• Hire and manage relationships with a diverse and inclusive pool of actors, musicians, performers, and vendors.
• Develop an operations plan for each assigned event to be used by all teams to assist in the set-up and take-down of events and programs. 
• Develop a schedule of diverse and inclusive activities for each assigned event for the purpose of providing visitors with an engaging, educational, and fun visit. Activities should support a wide range of learning styles.
• Obtain quotes and setup new contracts for upcoming events and performances, working within budgetary parameters.
• Oversee, in coordination with the guest services team and director of public programs, appropriate staffing for public programs and events.
• Greet, welcome, and interact with museum guests on behalf of public program activities. Observe children’s interactions and promote positive social interaction with program staff and other guests. Identify behavioral concerns and redirect guests as appropriate.
• Research new program ideas and make suggestions for improvements to signature events.
• Assist with training and overseeing public programs interns and volunteers. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate degree in early childhood education, museum studies, or related field.
• Two or more years of experience successfully developing and managing programs or curricula that promote learning and development for children, preferably in an educational environment or at a cultural institution.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEAI) work and fostering a sense of belonging for all guests.
• Experience working with children and families with young children.
• Flexibility to work both weekday and weekend shifts as job duties require.
• Strong creative thinking and problem-solving skills. 
• Knowledge of principles and methods for educational program design and evaluation, as well as teaching and instruction for individuals and groups.
• Ability to maintain a high level of energy throughout the workday, especially when interacting with guests.
• Strong customer service background and comfort engaging with diverse audiences of all ages.
• Ability to remain highly organized, flexible, and handle several projects at once.
• Ability to effectively work in a team-oriented environment and be open to feedback.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Word.  

These qualifications are considered a plus:

• Bilingual written and verbal skills.
• Marketing or public relations skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, museum studies, or related field.

The final candidate must consent to and pass a drug screen and background check as conditions of employment.  The Strong is an equal opportunity employer.