Bard College ART HISTORY and VISUAL CULTURE PROGRAM

Filed under Notes from the Chair, Uncategorized

Education Coordinator at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site: New Job Opportunity

Education Coordinator

The Thomas Cole National Historic site is now seeking a full-time Education Coordinator. They will work across the Education department to coordinate visitor and programmatic operations. This is a full time, year round position. Work schedule from May-October is Wednesday-Sunday; and Monday-Friday from November-April. In addition, special projects/events may take place on weekends year round. Reports to the Manager of Visitor Engagement. Compensation includes benefits and salary of $32,000 per year.

Coordination of Administrative Aspects of the Seasonal Touring Operations:

·   Ensure that the visitor experience runs smoothly. Guide the “Go-To Person” to solve problems.

·   Assist the Manager of Visitor Engagement with the interviewing/hiring of new guides for each season.

·   Train new and returning educators on logistical aspects of touring operation

·   Schedule guides so that the site is adequately staffed. Problem-solve when guides cancel their shift. Distribute the schedule to all staff who need to see it.

·   Oversee group tour reservations and scheduling staff. Problem-solve the way groups are guided through the site

·   Prepare for the opening and closing of each tour season. Tasks include setting up the seasonal staff office space, updating the tour manual, updating the Site’s phone messages and website regarding hours/offerings, and assisting the Manager of Visitor Engagement with other preparations

·   Lead daily tour staff meetings

·   Become a trained member of the tour staff and provide support, including filling in for last minute guide cancellations. For the first year, approximately 3 days per week. [See Museum Educator position description]

Coordination of School/Youth Programs:

·   Oversee multi-year project to create an online experience for youth audiences. Schedule meetings, oversee research, and be a key member of the project team

·   Oversee visit reservations and scheduling staff. Problem-solve the way students are guided through the site

·   Teach lesson plans/activities to students, both during on-site visits and by making trips to school classrooms

·   Be the primary contact for schools and teachers. Nurture newly formed relationships with schools and other youth organizations and develop new ones.

·   Maintain the Education tab on the TCNHS website

·   Lead group tours around the Site that consist primarily of children or students

·   Maintain a record system that summarizes relationship with schools/educators.

·   Train Educators how best to engage younger students, and how to lead lesson plans in classrooms and on site

·   Explore potential ways to connect with schools and youth audiences.

 Implementation of Educational Events/ Programs:

·   Work collaboratively with curatorial and interpretive teams to organize and implement various educational events and programs, such as lectures, public panels/talks with guest curators and presenting artists, and other educational programs. Create checklist of tasks for each and ensure all tasks are completed.

·   With Site Curator and Fellowship Director, plan and coordinate an annual meet and greet welcome Fellows event, Fellow’s public presentation event, and help with arrangements for monthly educational and professional site visits for the Cole Fellows.

·   Along with entire staff, assist with other events throughout the year as needed (such as fundraising events).