Learning and Engagement Specialist

The Learning and Engagement Specialist supports the work of the department through operations, administrative, and teaching tasks for the Learning and Engagement Department. The department offers a robust menu of programs including guided tours for students and adults, a 1-hour studio component of K-12 field trips, weekday and weekend drop-in activities for families, vacation and summer programming, adult and children's art classes, gallery talks, community programming, and lectures. The Learning and Engagement Specialist is the logistical point-person for lectures, gallery talks, and adult art studio programs, managing the details of both the presenters and the program registrants. This position also provides weekend support for programming, including assisting and teaching studio programming, activating gallery and hands-on spaces for visitors, leading tours, and supporting community programs and events. The schedule for this position is Tuesday-Saturday, with flexibility for evening programs and occasional Sunday programming.

The work of the Learning and Engagement Assistants is aligned with the Museum's mission: The New Britain Museum of American Art inspires, educates, and connects people through the power of American art. Through our outstanding collection, dynamic exhibitions, and engaging programs, we create meaningful experiences that foster curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

General

• Develop personal knowledge of permanent collection and American art in general to enhance development and implementation of public educational programming
• Develop knowledge of special exhibitions as they are presented at the Museum
• Understand the variety and diversity of visitors and life experiences they bring to the Museum
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment for all
• Develop and grow relationships with the Museum's staff and volunteers, especially the Visitor Services team, Docents, studio volunteers, and interns
• Works as a member of the Learning and Engagement team to collaborate on organization wide learning and engagement initiatives

Administration and Evaluation

• Develop a deep understanding of Tessitura, or other similar system for program booking and data collection
• Oversee Tessitura (or alternative program) functions related to all Learning and Engagement programming including:
  • building programs in system
  • tracking registration information
  • attend trainings and regular meetings regarding Tessitura (or alternative program)
• Manage all contracts and payments for contracted teachers, performers, lecturers, etc.
• Collaborate with Marketing and other departments on promotional content/activities
• Meet content and editing deadlines; maintain programming documentation
• Reports on public educational programs, including numbers, participant feedback, observational notes on curriculum and program structures
• Implement program evaluations and assessments
• Participate in research as directed by Director of Learning and Engagement
• Oversee all surveys and evaluation for all Learning and Engagement programs, ensuring consistent data collection and reporting

Adult Studio Classes, Workshops, Lectures, and Gallery Talks

• Working with other members of the Learning and Engagement Department, schedule a variety of lectures, gallery talks, art classes, and workshops for adults.
• Write program descriptions, maintain registrations, provide set-up instructions and support, and supervise programs in person as needed
• Communicate with program registrants
• Communicate with teaching artists, lecturers, and other outside contractors as needed
• Assist with classes and programs

Teaching

• Under the direction of the Manager of Art Studio Programs, lead field trip art studio classes for K-12 audiences
• Under the director of the Manager of Museum Visits and Outreach lead student and adult tours as needed

Special Initiatives

• Assist the Manager of Art Studio Programs with the coordination, installation and programming of the annual student art exhibition(s) collaboratively with teachers, including the annual Art Exhibition from the New Britain Public Schools, and Art Exhibition from the Berlin Public Schools
• Support monthly Access for All Community Days as needed
• Complete other duties as assigned by Director of Learning and Engagement

KNOWLEDGE, EDUCATION AND SKILLS:

1. Professional experience working in education, art education, community-based organizations, or museums is required
2. B.A. in Art, Art Education, Art History, Education, or other relevant Humanities field is required
3. Experience and comfort working with K-12 audiences and in a public-facing role
4. Knowledge and familiarity with basic artmaking processes
5. Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to communicate well both orally and in written form with visitors and colleagues of different ages, interests, and backgrounds
6. Knowledge of current museum and informal educational practices
7. Research, writing, editing, and information management skills
8. Proven project planning, coordination, and evaluation skills
9. Ability to work well within deadlines on multiple and varied projects simultaneously
10. Ability to thrive in fast-paced environment while contributing to a positive, collaborative, and healthy work environment
11. Demonstrated competency with databases and Customer Relationship Management systems for scheduling and reporting
12. Demonstrated competency using presentation platforms including: Zoom, Meet, and Teams to deliver virtual programs
13. Skilled in Google, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint applications

The New Britain Museum of American Art is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve and the rich cultural stories we steward. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.