Museum Operations Assistant

About the role

The Museum Operations Assistant performs professional, administrative, and technical work in the Town of Wytheville Department of Museums, primarily at the Willowbrook Jackson/Umberger Homestead site (10 acres with a decorative arts museum and over a dozen outbuildings). The role assists the Manager of Historic Site/Museum Operations with site upkeep and maintenance, educational activities for school field trips, and providing tours for museum visitors.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Manager of Historic Site/Museum Operations in overseeing historical integrity and physical upkeep of the property and collections.
• Assist in presenting educational activities for school‑age audiences and families based on Wythe County and Appalachian region history and material culture.
• Work as a member of the Museum team to plan and implement special educational programs and field trips, including May Day activities and other seasonal events.
• Assist with recruitment, training, and supervision of volunteer staff.
• Assist with presentation of tours and special events and provide coverage for the Museums.
• Perform all other duties necessary for the efficient and effective operation of the Department of Museums as assigned.
• Travel to Museum sites and Town offices as needed.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Valid state driver’s license required.
• 2‑5 years of experience working on historical job sites or living history museums.

Qualifications

• A degree in Historic Preservation, Public History, Museum Studies, or a related field is highly desirable.
• Experience working and interacting with adults and families in an educational or related setting.
• Equivalent experience in construction trades specializing in historic restoration will also be considered.

Skills

• Passionate about history while being comfortable performing maintenance tasks, operating power tools and other equipment.
• Interest in and ability to learn about the cultural and material heritage of Wythe County and the collections of the Town of Wytheville Museums and Wythe County Historical Society.
• Ability to present accurate first‑person demonstrations for living history programs.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to represent the Museums professionally.
• Ability to work effectively both as a team member and individually.
• Demonstrated ability to establish priorities and meet department deadlines consistently.
• Ability to assist with cleaning, transporting, setting up, and taking down displays and equipment for educational programs and living history presentations.
• Ability to use common tools and equipment such as circular saws, caulking guns, cordless drills, log splitter, personal computer, Microsoft Office, telephone, and copy machines.
• Ability to lift 40 lbs.; frequently required to sit and talk or hear, walk, use hands to grip, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms.

Pay

Anticipated starting salary: $38,054 to $53,870 (actual compensation will be DOE/DOQ).

Schedule

Full‑time position; must be able to work evenings and weekends on occasion for museum special programs.