Museum Tech Lead Supervisor

Full-time position with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama insurance covering medical, prescription, dental, and vision. Includes vacation, holidays, sick leave, and state retirement.

About the role

Facilitate, maintain, and enhance the experience of USSRC guests and employees by ensuring the effective, safe, and efficient operation of electronic, electro-mechanical, and computer-driven exhibits and simulators. Oversee the Museum Technical Department, providing leadership, technical expertise, and innovation in maintaining and developing museum exhibits and systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee systematic inspection, maintenance, and repair of museum equipment and simulators, including electronic, electro-mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and audio/visual systems.
• Manage and maintain computer peripherals, hardware, software, and networks related to simulators and interactives.
• Develop, modify, and redesign simulators and circuitry, including PCB design, software, and mechanical systems.
• Collaborate with leadership to develop and redesign technological exhibits.
• Ensure timely and accurate completion of maintenance tasks, technical support, and special event requirements.
• Maintain adequate tools and supplies to support daily operations effectively.
• Assist leadership with annual budgets for assigned areas, ensuring financial efficiency.
• Provide training, coaching, and performance evaluations for technical staff to ensure high performance and compliance with policies.
• Optimize staffing schedules to maximize productivity and meet operational needs.
• Supervise the installation, maintenance, and removal of exhibits.
• Blend traditional materials with emerging technologies to create innovative and interactive exhibits.
• Assist leadership with exhibit program budgets, manage schedules, workflows, and overall progress to ensure on-time, within-budget delivery.
• Track progress, evaluate exhibition programs, and refine processes for success.
• Prepare and deliver internal and public presentations to update stakeholders on project progress.
• Ensure the safety, functionality, and operational excellence of all museum equipment and exhibits.
• Lead, supervise, and support staff while fostering a collaborative and productive environment.
• Assist with design, prototypes, and installations of exhibits that are scientifically accurate and engaging for diverse audiences.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Manage the Museum Technical Department, including hiring, onboarding, training, and providing performance evaluations. Responsibilities include creating schedules to optimize productivity, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and safety standards, and assisting with departmental budgets. The role requires resolving conflicts, maintaining clear communication, and fostering a positive, collaborative work environment.

Travel Required

Occasional travel may be required for off-site maintenance, training, or collaboration with vendors and contractors to support the development, installation, or repair of exhibits and simulators.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Preferred: 2-year technical degree in electronics or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in maintaining and repairing electronic/electro-mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatics devices.
• Effective use of Microsoft Office and software tools related to the job position (e.g., SketchUp, CAD, Fusion 360).
• Knowledge of computer systems, networking, and programming (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi).

Physical Requirements

• Frequent movement, including walking, climbing stairs or ladders, and bending or kneeling to access equipment and perform repairs.
• Ability to lift, push, and carry equipment weighing up to 100 pounds to waist height.
• Tasks may involve crawling under or reaching over equipment, as well as using fine motor skills for tasks requiring sight, reading, and tactile abilities.
• Operating heavy equipment, such as forklifts and manlifts, and comfort working at heights is necessary.

Eligibility Qualifications

Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Work Environment

• Fast-paced and dynamic, involving both indoor and outdoor settings.
• Tasks performed in maintenance shops, exhibit areas, and simulator facilities, with exposure to mechanical equipment, tools, and machinery.
• May require work in confined spaces, at heights up to 380 feet, or in areas with varying temperatures, lighting, and noise levels.
• Outdoor tasks may occasionally expose employees to weather elements such as heat, cold, or rain.
• Strict adherence to safety protocols is essential due to the use of heavy equipment and machinery.
• Frequent interaction with visitors, contractors, and team members, requiring professionalism and collaboration.

Schedule

Full-time position requiring 40 hours per week. Primarily on-site during regular business hours, with flexibility needed to accommodate special events, maintenance needs, or project deadlines. Some evening, weekend, or holiday work may be required based on operational demands.