Museum Educator; Preservation and Museum Specialist

Museum Educator (Preservation and Museum Specialist
2)

Job Type: Part‑Time | 0.75 FTE

Schedule: 30 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM. Hours may vary for evenings and weekends. Up to two days per week may be telework‑eligible with manager approval.

The Preservation & Museum Specialist 2 (PMS2) works under the direction of the Senior Manager of K‑12 Services and serves as a museum educator and program coordinator for the Washington State Historical Society. Responsibilities include coordinating school and group visits, facilitating history‑lab field trips, creating hands‑on interpretive experiences, and supporting program development for the general public. The role involves frequent standing and occasional lifting of objects up to 25 lb.

• Coordinate logistics for school visit programs (scheduling, lunch assignments, etc.).
• Provide written reports on field‑trip logistics to museum staff weekly.
• Process invoices and payments for field trips.
• Deliver lessons, hands‑on experiences, and/or tours in the History Lab and other exhibition areas; collaborate with AED staff on in‑gallery interactive development.
• Research, develop, and implement changes to the History Lab update project in alignment with strategic goals.

• Six years of experience working directly with children, teachers, and families in an informal education environment (museum, zoo, nature center).
• Assisting and/or participating in the development and delivery of educational programs in a museum or similar setting.
• Up to four years of education in museum studies, history, anthropology, art history, or related field may substitute for experience (1 year education = 1 year experience).

• Knowledge of U.S. and World History and understanding of diverse cultures.
• Passion for sharing stories with audiences of all ages through multiple media.
• Interpersonal skills: building rapport with diverse stakeholders, asking thoughtful questions, and being receptive to feedback.
• Collaboration & communication: presenting information, facilitating discussion, and developing educational materials.
• Problem‑solving and creativity in designing interactive educational experiences.
• Time management and prioritization.
• Adaptability and commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
• Attention to detail and the ability to take initiative to learn and grow.
• Ability to take action to meet the needs of others.

• Bachelor’s degree in museum education, history, anthropology, art history, or related field.
• Experience developing programs and/or curriculum.
• Experience supervising staff or volunteers.
• Specialized knowledge of Pacific Northwest history.
• Experience in a history/culture museum setting.

• Must pass a background check.

• Provide a letter of interest describing how you meet the qualifications.
• Provide a current resume detailing experience and education.
• Provide a list of at least three professional references with current contact information.

Do not attach any documents that contain photos or private information such as social security number or year of birth.

Prior to appointment, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Results may be considered in determining suitability for the position.

This position is included in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).

The Washington State Historical Society is an equal opportunity employer and celebrates diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.

Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the Washington Relay Service at 7‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑833‑6388. For questions about recruitment or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Rachel Vaughan .