Exhibits Manager

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

57d

About The Position

The Exhibits Manager is an organized and creative communicator responsible for leading the development of all major exhibitions at the Nebraska History Museum and historical sites across the state. This role involves planning, coordinating, and executing the exhibition process from concept through installation. In addition, the Exhibits Manager oversees the ongoing upkeep of all displays, including long-term, temporary, traveling, and virtual exhibits, as well as learning and creative spaces. They will ensure all exhibitions are engaging, relevant, and consistent with the Nebraska State Historical Society's mission. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with a variety of internal and external partners to tell Nebraska's collective story in ways that connect with Nebraskans today and highlight the Society's collections and resources. The Nebraska State Historical Society is a statewide educational institution that connects people to the past through our library and research center, conservation facility, interpretive sites, and state archaeology and historic preservation offices.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in history, art, architecture, graphic design, interior design, anthropology or museum studies, plus three years' experience in exhibition development, design and coordination.
Other: This position requires travel. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver's license or other form of reliable transportation. Regular and reliable attendance is required.
Exhibit Development & Management: Proven experience in exhibition development and strong project management skills, including managing long-term, temporary, and traveling projects from inception to completion. This includes coordinating timelines, resources, and milestones.
Project Management & Organization: Demonstrated expertise in managing complex project timelines, budgets, and risk, with a high level of organization and meticulous attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and ensure timely completion.
Exhibit Design & Interpretation: A solid understanding of exhibit design principles, visitor engagement techniques, and the practical aspects of constructing and installing exhibits.
Contract Management: Proficiency in creating, overseeing, and closing out contracts, including negotiation and risk management, particularly for vendors, consultants, and lenders.
Budgeting and Financial Acumen: Strong financial expertise with experience in developing, managing, and reporting on project budgets.
Collaboration & Communication: Excellent creative and organizational communication skills, with the ability to lead and facilitate cross-departmental teams and work effectively with internal and external partners and consultants. This includes strong administrative skills related to leadership, organizing, and delegating.
Problem-Solving: The ability to proactively identify and resolve issues that arise during the exhibit planning and execution process.
Compliance & Safety: Knowledge of safety regulations, accessibility requirements (e.g., ADA), and best practices for exhibits and public spaces.
Evaluation and Research: Ability to design and implement exhibit evaluation methods and interpret audience research findings to inform exhibit development and improve visitor experience.
Historical & Cultural Competence: A solid understanding of U.S. history, with a willingness to learn about Nebraska history from a variety of perspectives.
Technical Skills: Proficiency with relevant software, including project management tools, collection management systems, and the Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

Exhibition Vision and Strategy: Develop a clear framework for exhibit development and processes in collaboration with colleagues and collaborators, which will shape all future projects. Create and manage the exhibition calendar and lead regular planning meetings to identify and approve exhibition topics and plans. Incorporate institutional priorities, such as accessibility and curiosity, into exhibit content and design.
Project Management and Administration: Serve as the project manager for the development of exhibitions, coordinating with colleagues across departments, outside agencies and organizations, vendors, community partners, and contractors. Oversee the budget for the exhibits department and individual exhibits, maintain financial records, and develop budget plans for each exhibit. Assist in fundraising efforts and grant applications to secure funding for exhibitions. Ensure the proper handling, documentation, and care of artifacts throughout their time on display in collaboration with the collections department. Oversee the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of all exhibits to ensure their continued quality and functionality.
Team Leadership and Supervision: Direct staff, interns, volunteers, work-study students, and contractors assigned to exhibit projects. Foster a collaborative environment, serving as a key communicator between departments, with outside partners, and consultants.
Evaluation and Audience Research: Develop methods to evaluate the success of exhibits and conduct audience research to better understand and serve NSHS audiences more effectively.
Partnerships and Agreements: Develop exhibition agreements with outside partners, other museums, lenders, and consultants, in consultation with internal stakeholders.
Other Duties as assigned within the scope of the classification.

Benefits

13 paid holidays
Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
Military leave
156% (that's not a typo!) state-matched retirement
Tuition reimbursement
Employee assistance program
79% employer paid health insurance plans
Dental and vision insurance plans
Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
Training and Development based on your career aspirations
Fun, inviting teammates, and a safe and secure environment