Curator of Exhibits, WY State Museum 2026-02022

Curator Of Exhibits

The Wyoming State Museum, founded in 1895, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Wyoming through exhibits, artifacts, and education programs. The Curator of Exhibits is responsible for the design and curation of exhibits at the museum, leading the graphic design, layout, and interpretation of exhibits produced by the museum. This role is crucial to advancing the museum's mission of educating the public by creating exhibits that engage locals and tourists.

Living in Cheyenne, Wyoming's largest city and state capital, offers a small-town feel while providing access to larger city amenities, outdoor recreation, and cultural offerings. Cheyenne is located in southeastern Wyoming, only 90 minutes north of Denver and holds on to its deep-rooted western heritage, showcased through Cheyenne Frontier Days, the world's largest outdoor rodeo. Outside of town are recreational opportunities at Curt Gowdy State Park and the Medicine Bow National Forest.

There is also a vibrant arts and culture scene, featuring multiple museums, galleries, and festivals.

Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Our total compensation package includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays, retirement – pension and 457B plans that help you build a secure future, flexible schedules and work-life balance options, meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities, and much more!  for detailed information, or you can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package!

The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function which may be performed in the job level. Collaborate with other museum staff to curate onsite exhibits. Responsible for design including 3D renderings, visual themes, furniture placement, graphic elements, text panels, and any other relevant components. Ensure galleries and exhibits conform to Smithsonian accessibility standards. Stay up to date on exhibit best practices.

Develop an interpretive package that can include images, text, artifacts, and any other relevant content. Conduct research to inform exhibit interpretation. Track project spending based on the provided budget. Collaborate with museum staff on interactive development. Collaborate with the collections team on artifact selection and display requirements. Ensure the website is updated with current exhibits. Ensure gallery spaces are clean and safe for all visitors.

Responsible for general maintenance of exhibits, including potential repairs. Update and replace interpretive labels or other exhibit components as needed. Replace and adjust gallery lighting. Responsible for maintaining printing and design equipment and materials. Maintain print shop to adhere to OSHA standards. Manage the WSM's traveling exhibits program. Once every 7-8 weeks, serve a Mon-Sat shift as front-of-house manager. During shift, this position will serve as the museum security officer and point of contact for visitors and volunteers.

Respond to emergencies by contacting appropriate parties. Open and close the museum and cover the front desk if a volunteer is unavailable. Supervise volunteers and interns as they relate to exhibits. Assist other museum staff when appropriate or needed. Serve on museum and agency committees as assigned.

Preference may be given to applicants with a Master's degree in museum studies, history, education, cultural resources, or a related field. Strong grasp of museum best practices, especially as they relate to interpretive writing, universal design, and accessibility. Strong skills in oral and written communication. Ability to create outlines, research, and write interpretive text. Exhibit design and construction techniques including use of Adobe Creative Cloud programs, Sketch Up, and/or equivalent design software.

Ability to organize and prioritize time, manage multiple assignments, and plan and coordinate events and deadlines. Knowledge of estimating, budgeting, and bidding practices as it relates to exhibit production.

Bachelor's Degree (typically in Cultural Resources) 0-2 years of progressive work experience (typically in Cultural Resources) OR 3-5 years of progressive work experience (typically in Cultural Resources) Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
None

Work is typically performed indoors, but some outdoor work and travel are required. Ability to work occasional nights and weekends. Ability to lift 75 pounds with or without accommodation.