Exhibits Technician

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Nebraska State Historical Society is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Exhibits Technician to join our exhibits team. This multifaceted role focuses on the physical design, development, and implementation of exhibit components for the Nebraska History Museum and other historical sites across the state. The ideal candidate will possess strong fabrication and repair skills, a problem-solving mindset, and a passion for collaboration in order to create engaging and high-quality visitor experiences. Reporting to the Exhibits Manager, the technician will collaborate closely with the collections, education, facilities, and other staff across the organization to successfully fabricate, install, and maintain in-house, traveling, and off-site exhibitions. This role is essential for bringing our creative and educational visions to life by building, installing, and maintaining all exhibits. 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. Work environment: The position involves working in a combination of workshop, gallery, and public spaces. Work hours may vary, particularly during installation or de-installation phases, and may include some evening or weekend shifts. The role may require work at heights on ladders or lifts and exposure to workshop noise and materials. Look at what we have to offer! At the State, we stand by our core values of treating others with dignity and respect, acting ethically in all situations, and creating an environment where our customer is our top priority. Apply to join our team today!

Requirements

Associates degree or equivalent vocational education in construction, industrial engineering, HVAC, welding, or other building trade.
Experience in building maintenance, a mechanical trade, or performing safety inspections, investigations or training may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis as determined appropriate by the agency.
This position requires travel, and some overnight stays. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver’s license or another form of reliable transportation.
Regular and reliable attendance is required.
Ability to manage projects from inception to completion, including timelines, resources, milestones, and budgets.
Experience in developing and managing project budgets, including contracts, costs, and timelines.
Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and ensure timely completion.
Strong administrative skills, including the ability to lead, delegate, and foster effective communication and collaboration within teams.
Technical expertise in using a variety of hand and power tools, as well as proficiency in carpentry, electrical wiring, and painting techniques.
Experience with design software like SketchUp is essential.
Ability to analyze situations and troubleshoot technical issues quickly and effectively.
Reading Ability to read mechanical drawings, blueprints, and schematics for fabrication and installation purposes.
Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with internal teams, contractors, vendors, and volunteers.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for collaborating with team members and documenting work.
Demonstrated participation in professional development opportunities that increase cultural competence and awareness.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., regularly and occasionally up to 100 lbs., stand for extended periods, and perform physical tasks.
Meticulous attention to detail is crucial for quality and accuracy.
Highly reliable, responsible, and able to work independently or as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED required.
A degree or vocational certificate in a related field (e.g., fine arts, museum studies, carpentry, electrical) is a plus.
Prior experience in exhibit fabrication, museum installation, technical theater, or a related trade is highly desired.

Responsibilities

Assist in developing exhibit designs and content in collaboration with the Exhibits manager and relevant teams.
Assist with the conceptualization and design of exhibits within the scope of the exhibit goals and budget.
Design and select fixtures for exhibits and assist in design choices to create interactive and meaningful exhibit experiences for visitors.
Create exhibit layouts in SketchUp and help develop a design style for the exhibit.
Construct, fabricate, modify, paint, and install museum exhibit structures, furniture, and cases.
Fabricate and modify accessible exhibit components and design and implement effective interactive elements.
Read and interpret mechanical drawings, blueprints, and schematics for fabrication and installation purposes.
Take on projects requested by other members of the organization, prioritizing and completing them when available.
Collaborate with the Exhibits Manager to schedule, plan, and implement changes to the exhibits.
Facilitate all necessary preparations for the galleries, including painting and patching walls.
Acquire any materials needed for installations and coordinate with external vendors as required.
Assist in the installation of new exhibits and ensure the safe handling of de-installations, working closely with the Exhibits Manager.
Collaborate with Collections staff on the display, selection, and lighting of artifacts for their safe presentation.
Conduct weekly walkthroughs of exhibits, assessing the need for repair or improvement.
Support daily exhibit maintenance and repair needs; assess the need for changes in design or materials.
Visit historic sites regularly to ensure exhibits are in working order, traveling for specific projects when required.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with contractors, vendors, partners, and consultants.
Collaborate with external vendors to manage the production and timely delivery of products or services.
Address issues or reach out to the responsible stakeholder when there is a problem with the exhibit.
Manage exhibits workshop, equipment, tools, and materials.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace, observing safety procedures in both public and work areas.
Research, identify, and maintain an inventory of required tools, parts, and materials for fabrication and maintenance.
Inventory displays and place orders for new components when necessary, coordinating delivery with outside vendors.
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