Manager of Educational Programs - Gilmore Car Museum

Posted on 4/13/26

Manager of Educational Programs is responsible for the successful creation, development, and execution of a robust annual calendar comprised of school field trip programs, public programs, Garage Works, Model T Driving Experience, and special events. Additionally, they will develop programming the Museum’s Engagement Center (opening 2027), lead annual Education exhibitions in collaboration with area schools, and serve as a staff liaison to the Museum’s Education Committee and with community partners. The manager of education programs will also be expected to maintain top-level oversight of program activities, operations, funding, and expense management. They will work closely with colleagues in development and finance on the development of successful grant applications and the reporting of accurate program numbers and outcomes.

This individual is empowered to envision a comprehensive calendar of creative and diverse interdisciplinary programs that engage learners of all ages and abilities in history, science, and culture, supported by the museum’s collections and exhibitions. They are encouraged to chart long-term programmatic goals, outcomes, and structures, and will be expected to oversee the successful execution of their programmatic vision, working especially closely with their supervisor and volunteers. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Manage all aspects of educational activities from planning through execution and evaluation, including budget oversight and post-event reporting, to ensure high-quality learning experiences for diverse audiences.
  • Develop, implement, and promote new educational offerings to meet community needs and broaden audience reach.
  • Oversee school outreach initiatives
  • Collaborate across departments and support general museum operations as needed.
  • Conceive of and grow a robust annual calendar of onsite specialty education programs, including homeschool days, school vacation weeks, and summer activities.
  • Develop and oversee outreach programming for community partners and events 
  • Design and implement programming for the Museum’s Engagement Center (opening in 2027), including workshops for children and adults, and drop-in activities for Museum visitors.
  • Evaluate programs, track program attendance, and provide information for grants and reporting
  • Provide oversight and strategic direction for the Garage Works Program and undergraduate and graduate student Internship Program, through long-term curriculum development, community and college partnerships
  • Manage and expand on Model T Driving Experience
  • Partners with Director to set vision, strategy, and goals for the Education Department. Works closely with the Executive Director to implement the Education Department’s new strategic plan. This includes launching the Museum’s Thinktank, which will build out new interdisciplinary avenues of inquiry and research, especially around history, science, and culture.   
  • Builds and maintains relationships with faculty and students to foster innovation, experimentation, and practice connected to multi-disciplinary object-based teaching and research.
  • As appropriate, organizes and/or oversees curricular-driven exhibitions.
  • Manages program operations and administrative functions which may include planning and scheduling, program evaluation, policy implementation, personnel administration, budget, marketing, fundraising and proposal development.

Preferred Competencies 

  • Demonstrated ability to articulate a strong pedagogical vision for object-based teaching across a range of disciplines.
  • Interest in expanding curricular engagement to new areas.
  • An interdisciplinary thinker who has genuine enthusiasm for collaboration.
  • Strong experience in team leadership, including mentoring, performance management, and collaboration.  
  • Demonstrated ability to manage programs, events, and broader projects. Experience with assessment and evaluation.
  • Well-developed written/oral communication skills with the ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
  • Knowledge of museum best practices as well as current and emerging trends in the academic museum field. 
  • Possesses excellent program management and communication skills
  • Pays close attention to details and schedules, with strong organization and time-management 
  • Anticipates and responds to situations with flexibility and adaptability
  • Can problem-solve and adjust, as needed
  • Works independently and as a member of a small team

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS  

  • 3-5 years of experience working in K-12 education, program development, or project management in non-profit, museums, or other related industries preferred 
  • Bachelor’s degree in education, museum studies, or a related field
  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
  • Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends
  • Experience with big-picture program development, step-by-step project management, and use of metrics to report on deliverables
  • Ability to lift 25 pounds and climb stairs and a ladder
  • Successful completion of a background check 

Salary: 60,000 – 65,000 annually

Reporting Structure: Reports to the Executive Director

Applicants should reach out directly to HR Generalist, Kelly McConnell, at kmcconnell@gilmorecarmuseum.org to apply. 

Thank you to our Partners!


Michigan Museums Association       313-334-7643       PO Box 5246, Cheboygan, MI 49721      director@michiganmuseums.org

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