Museum Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Under the direction of the Recreation Director, this position is responsible for overseeing routine operations of the Historical Museum during public open hours, with primary emphasis on volunteer coordination, visitor services, and maintaining a welcoming and secure museum environment. This position serves as the primary on-site staff presence during assigned shifts and is responsible for coordinating volunteers, assigning work tasks, assisting visitors, conducting tours, and ensuring museum policies and operational procedures are followed. The position also assists with basic museum programming, facility oversight, and general operational support as needed.

Must be available to work a flexible schedule including daytime hours, evenings, weekends, and special events as needed. This LTE position is scheduled for up to 20 hours per week. Work hours are flexible and will be determined based on operational needs and candidate availability.

The schedule may include a combination of weekday, evening, and weekend hours to support museum operations, programming, tours, and special events. This position is a limited-term role and employment may end on 12/31/2026. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

We encourage you to apply early, as this position may close once a qualified candidate is selected. Essential Job Functions Volunteer Coordination and Museum Operations Coordinate, direct, and provide oversight to museum volunteers. Assist with the safe handling, organization, documentation, and monitoring of museum artifacts and exhibits Report concerns regarding artifact condition, security, or storage to supervisory staff.

Assign volunteer tasks and help ensure work is completed in a professional and consistent manner. Assist with volunteer scheduling, communication, orientation, and training. Help foster a positive, welcoming, and collaborative volunteer environment.

Perform opening and closing procedures including unlocking/locking doors and conducting routine walkthroughs of the Museum. Provide support for archival projects and historical collections, including organizing records, digitization efforts, inventory tracking, and documentation. Monitor museum spaces during operating hours to help ensure the safety and security of visitors, exhibits, artifacts, and collections areas.

Ensure museum policies, procedures, and operational expectations are consistently followed. Visitor Services and Public Engagement Greet visitors and provide excellent customer service to patrons of all ages. Conduct guided tours and engage visitors in conversations related to Sun Prairie history and exhibits.

Respond to visitor questions and general inquiries regarding museum exhibits, programs, events, donations, and services, as needed Assist with educational activities, school groups, community tours, and public programs, if assigned. Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming museum environment. Monitor and record visitor attendance and participation during open hours and programs.

General Support Duties Assist with light exhibit upkeep, seasonal decorating, and basic museum projects as assigned. Assist with phone calls, emails, and routine administrative support. Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and continuing education opportunities as assigned.

Perform related duties as assigned. Requirements of Work High school diploma, HSED, or GED required. Associate's/Bachelor's degree or active pursuit of a degree in museum studies, history, education, communications, public history, or related field preferred.

Prior experience in customer service, education, museums, tourism, volunteer coordination, or public programming preferred. Experience working with volunteers, youth groups, or the general public preferred. Any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, abilities, and skills may be considered.

Knowledge of: General customer service principles and public engagement practices. Basic museum operations, historical programming, or educational practices preferred. General office software and computer applications.

Methods, procedures, and standards applicable to museums or public facilities preferred. Ability to: Establish and maintain effective working relationships with visitors, volunteers, staff, and community partners. Provide a welcoming and engaging experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

Coordinate, direct, and assign work to volunteers in a positive and professional manner. Learn and communicate information related to the history of Sun Prairie and surrounding areas. Effectively carry out oral and written instructions.

Exercise sound judgment and responsibly oversee museum operations during assigned shifts. Handle multiple tasks and priorities in a public-facing environment. Skill in: Customer service, communication, and interpersonal relations.

Organization, problem solving, and attention to detail. Public speaking and tour facilitation. Working independently while maintaining accountability and professionalism.

Monitoring assigned work to ensure quality, accuracy, and thoroughness. The City of Sun Prairie is committed to advancing equity, honoring our diverse identity, and creating an inclusive culture. These serve as our guiding principles every day in all that we do.

Keep us accountable to this mission and join us in this commitment to a thriving Sun Prairie, as you live, work, and play. If you need an accommodation during the hiring process, please contact Human Resources at 608-825-1174 or HumanResources@cityofsunprairie.com.