Jobs and Internships

Bowdoin’s Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum collects, studies, and exhibits Arctic-related collections, educating audiences, sharing knowledge, and generating excitement about Arctic and Subarctic regions. Established in 1967, the museum is named after Arctic explorers and Bowdoin graduates Robert E. Peary and Donald B. MacMillan. Three years ago, it moved into the John and Lile Gibbons Center for Arctic Studies, a new building that houses museum offices, a workshop, galleries, a lab, and classrooms.

Under the direction of the Exhibit Coordinator, the Exhibit Technician assists with the development, fabrication, installation, deinstallation, and maintenance of the Arctic Museum exhibits. Responsible for the safe handling and display of objects, and the design and fabrication of exhibit object mounts. Coordinates building maintenance activities with Arctic Museum and Facilities staff.

Essential Functions:

• Constructs temporary walls, platforms, and casework based on exhibit design drawings; applies various surface finishes; mounts labels and graphics, mats and frames flat artwork; installs and adjusts exhibit lighting.
• Assists in the development of mount production scope and schedule; designs, fabricates, and installs artifact mounts and fixtures in exhibits using current museum standards and conservation best practices.
• Operates, cleans, and maintains tools and various pieces of equipment; purchases supplies and equipment for the workshop. Maintains the galleries, cleaning them daily, making minor repairs; and troubleshooting problems.

Required: Vocational or technical training: Associate’s or vocational/ technical school degree is preferred.

• Working familiarity with hand tools and power tools.
• The ability to read technical drawings.
• Ability to work with care and extreme attention to detail.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers.
• Demonstrated command of basic Microsoft Office or equivalent computer programs.

Required: Experience in carpentry, object handling, mount making, and exhibit installation; ability to read technical drawings; ability to work with care with attention to detail; ability to work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and operate under tight schedules and fixed deadlines.

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications in this posting to be considered for hire.

Normal workday is 8:30 am-3:00 pm five days a week, some overtime hours. Flexible about whether individual works 4 or 5 days a week.

This is a full-time, year-round position working 30 hours/52 weeks, (.075 FTE) with occasional evening or weekends as required.

The hourly range for this position is expected to be: $29.00 –$30.50/per hour. Compensation is based on skills and experience.

This is a benefits eligible position.

BENEFITS AND PERKS

• A variety of health insurance plans (Medical – effective date of hire, Vision, Dental)
• Generous Retirement Plan – 10.12% annual compensation contribution (Eligible after 1 year of service and age 26), no match or vesting required!
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off, Holidays and Special Days Off: https://www.bowdoin.edu/hr/our-workplace/college-holidays-and-special-days-off.html
• Paid Parental Leave (Available after one year of service)

Applicants MUST apply on Bowdoin College’s website: https://careers.bowdoin.edu/postings/17028

The University of Maine at Fort Kent is looking to hire an Archivist. The primary responsibilities of this position are to manage the processing and procedures of the Acadian Archives/Archives acadiennes collection, and to perform original and copy cataloging of traditional, archival, and electronic materials. This position reports to the Director of the Acadian Archives and works with Blake Library, faculty, other campus departments, the St. John Valley community, the University of Maine System Libraries (UMSL) and Maine InfoNet.

The salary for this position is $46,000 plus a 10% employer contribution to the UMS retirement plan. Additional benefits (UMPSA Single Page Benefits) include medical, dental, vision, and tuition waiver programs for employees and dependents. The UMS is a recipient of the Wellness Councils of America’s Well Workplace Award and offers wellness programs.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• To manage accessioning, arrangement, description, and encoding for all archival collections.
• To process collections.
• To create and maintain local accessioning and processing standards in accordance with national archival standards.
• To create and manage finding aid usability and visibility.
• To develop policies and procedures in the area of the collection.
• To perform original and copy cataloging of materials, including traditional and electronic materials, and to process authority control of records in the catalog based on the UMS Cataloging Standards document.
• To assist the Director of the Acadian Archives in analyzing the collections’ strengths and weaknesses and in selecting materials for acquisition in accordance with the mission of the Archives and the needs of the collection.
• To train staff on standards and processing.
• To manage and configure access to Archives collections using appropriate tools such as ArchivesSpace.
• To provide assistance in analyzing needs and making recommendations for purchase of materials and equipment.
• To provide reference services, offer tours, and support Archives activities as needed.
• To perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills particularly pertaining to archival methods, cataloging, and authority control.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to formulate and articulate policies, procedures, expectations, and practices.
• Strong time management, supervisory, organizational, and technical skills.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS/MLS/MSIS).
• 1 to 3 years professional archival experience required.
• French language both written and oral strongly preferred.

Budget Responsibilities: Responsible for monitoring and adhering to the Archives acquisitions budget and recommending future expenditures.

Campus/University Service: Serves on a variety of campus and system committees and groups including the UMS Cataloging Standards Committee.

About the University

Located on the northernmost border of Maine, the University of Maine at Fort Kent is a career-focused campus offering relevant, experiential, academic programs and services with personalized attention. UMFK’s diverse student population enjoys the opportunity to live and learn in a beautiful, natural setting and a caring, friendly atmosphere where they thrive as engaged members of the community.

Our vision is that UMFK will transform students into professionals who have the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to meet the evolving demands of a modern workforce.

Taught by full-time faculty, our average class size is 16 students to one faculty member. Our students come to us from throughout the United States as well as approximately 30 countries.

The great outdoor environment of the St. John Valley and forests of New England provide UMFK with abundant resources for learning and research, as well as easy access to the joys of outdoor sports and nature activities. The University and surrounding communities also play important roles in preserving, cultivating, and celebrating the Franco-American/Acadian culture in the St. John Valley and housing one of two Acadian Archives/Archives acadiennes in the nation. UMFK is the only institution in the United States located at the center of the French culture of northern Maine, northwestern New Brunswick, and eastern Quebec, offering opportunities for students to study and live in a bilingual region.

The surrounding town of Fort Kent is a welcoming town of approximately 3,800 people who are active in various festivals, community gatherings, and civic work. UMFK is embedded near the center of town allowing easy access to amenities and the community at large.

UMFK ranks among the top tier of all northern colleges for the tenth consecutive year, according to the U.S. News & World Report 2021 rankings. For the past 15 years, UMFK has been repeatedly selected as one of the outstanding colleges and universities that The Princeton Review recommends to college applicants in its print and online editions.

Appropriate background checks are required.

The University of Maine System is an equal opportunity institution committed to nondiscrimination.

Clery Act

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish and distribute an Annual Security Report, (ASR) and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University’s crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University’s current campus security policies. You may view the University’s Annual Security Report. If you have any questions, contact Student Affairs at (207) 834-7587.

To apply: https://fa-ewca-saasfaprod1.fa.ocs.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/1653/?utm_medium=jobshare&utm_source=External+Job+Share

Or visit https://www.umfk.edu/jobs/.

The University of Southern Maine is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Library Specialized Collections Processor to support the ongoing arrangement, description, and access of materials, with a focus on our Special Collections Judaica Collection and our Franco-American Collection. This position will work 50% time at the Special Collections Glickman Family Library on the Portland Campus, and 50% time at the Franco-American Collection on the Lewiston-Auburn Campus. This position plays a key role in establishing both physical and intellectual control over new and legacy collections, including materials of cultural, historical, and community significance.

This position will involve working with materials such as the Judaica Collections, Beliveau papers (large collection of professional materials from a local lawyer, judge, and justice), Franco-American Collection institutional records, Franco-American Collection Vincent Leblanc Survey Maps, among others.

Job details and how to apply

We are looking for a passionate and knowledgeable Museum Experience Associate / Space Rocks Gallery Guide to join our team. As a Museum Experience Associate / Space Rocks Gallery Guide, you will be responsible for providing an engaging and educational experience for our visitors. You will lead tours, answer questions, and share fascinating stories about our exhibits and collections. You will need to be well-versed in the museum's content, able to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, and capable of adapting your tours to meet the needs and interests of different visitor groups. In addition to leading tours, you may assist with special events, educational programs, and other museum activities. You will also be responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the exhibits and visitors. If you are passionate about learning and sharing information on new topics and enjoy interacting with people, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position.

Responsibilities

• Lead guided tours of the Space Rocks Gallery for diverse audiences.
• Provide detailed information about exhibits and collections.
• Answer visitor questions and engage in discussions.
• Adapt tours to meet the needs and interests of different groups.
• Assist with special events and educational programs as needed.
• Ensure the safety and security of exhibits and visitors.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of museum content.
• Collaborate with museum staff on various projects.
• Assist in the development of educational materials.
• Handle visitor feedback and concerns professionally.
• Promote museum membership and programs.
• Support marketing and outreach efforts.
• Conduct research to enhance tour content.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development.

Requirements

• Preferred availability: Two days per week, either Friday/Saturday or Saturday/Sunday, based on candidate availability, with occasional flexibility to work other days as needed.
• Ability to engage and educate diverse audiences.
• Physical ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Customer service experience is a plus.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Experience with educational programs and events.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Professional and friendly demeanor.
• Curiosity and the ability to learn about new topics is a must.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Free parking

Work Location: In person

Apply through this link only.

Museum Administration and External Affairs, Associate Director of Museum Finance and Administration

Pay Rate Type:
Salary
Job Summary:

The Associate Director of Museum Finance and Administration at the Colby Museum serves as a key member of the Director’s Office team. The Associate Director oversees the business operations of the museum, ensuring that financial and administrative processes run efficiently throughout the fiscal and academic year, and provides ongoing data management, analysis, and reporting that supports multi-year budget planning, institutional evaluation, and strategic initiatives. This position manages museum financial transactions, budget and expense tracking, and hiring processes in Workday, vendor contracts, and institutional surveys, working collaboratively with college financial services, human resources, institutional research, and other Colby College offices, as well as with museum staff, and as appropriate, external stakeholders.

THE MUSEUM AND ITS MISSION
Located in Waterville, Maine, the Colby Museum opens access to art and artists for the Colby community, for Maine residents and visitors, and for audiences beyond, creating a forum for experimentation, research, dialogue, and connection. We grow and use our stellar collection in ways that activate the power of art to expand imagination and forge new connections, fostering a more open, creative, and compassionate society. We teach to inspire and open possibilities, so that students at Colby and other visitors can become more curious, nimble, and able to contribute within a changing world, in keeping with Colby’s dynamic liberal arts mission. We incubate art scholarship and practice in ways that explore and expand how the idea of America is understood and how art is made, interpreted, and shared. We do so by supporting new research, providing mentorship, and convening a diversity of people and perspectives. The Lunder Institute for American Art and our exhibitions, programs, and publications facilitate field-wide impact. We are committed to our audiences, including the Colby College community, residents of Waterville and the broader Maine region, national and international visitors, and the artists, scholars, and partners with whom we collaborate.

Essential Functions

To perform successfully in this position, an individual must be able to perform essential duties satisfactorily as well as possess education/experience, employ the knowledge, skills, and abilities as listed in representative fashion. Colby College actively supports the Americans with Disabilities Act and will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.  This listing of essential duties is not all-inclusive, but representative; other duties may be assigned.

• Financial and Budget Management:

  • Serve as lead manager of museum budget processes, tracking, and reporting.

  • Facilitate annual budget planning, mid-year budget review, and end-of-year reconciliation by working closely with the Director of Administration and External Affairs, with the Director’s office, and with area budget managers.

  • Work with the Director’s office team to prepare current-year budget reports, generating updates on a monthly basis and as needed, as well as assisting with managing multi-year projections.

  • Serve as the museum’s business manager in Workday, creating, approving, and/or overseeing day-to-day procurement and expense transactions across all departments and ensuring monthly reconciliations are completed in a timely manner.

  • Work with the College financial services team and all museum departments to regular monitor expenses and ensure alignment with institutional goals.

  • Facilitate grant and fundraising activities by providing budget and expense reports for internal gift and grant management and/or as required by external funders, working in collaboration with museum development and College advancement teams.

• Administrative Support:

  • Provide high-level business administrative support to the Director’s office team, preparing business-related briefing materials, presentations, or other business communications on behalf of the Director and senior staff.

  • Handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.

  • Serve as a primary manager of institutional data and survey participation, acting as a primary point of contact for external stakeholders and overseeing internal data-gathering as needed.  Support institutional evaluation and planning by gathering and providing key data.

  • Ensure concise, timely and accurate record keeping, creating and maintaining shared drive navigation and organizational systems in collaboration with the events manager, communications manager, and other museum team leads.

  • Ensure timely procurement/expense processing in alignment with execution and compliance of agreements, monitoring performance and maintaining documentation in collaboration with the legal office.

  • Assist the Director of Administration and External Affairs with museum human relations management, including Workday recruiting functions, on/off boarding processes, and administrative training of staff within the Director’s office and key museum departments.

  • Work with the Mirken Director of Learning and Engagement to facilitate student hiring functions and job postings in Workday, and track museum budget allocations for student employment.

  • Work with the Museum Director and senior team to ensure ongoing compliance with policies provided by the Office of Human Resources.

• Communication and Liaison Duties:

  • Serve as a liaison between the Director’s office and other departments within the museum and college in relation to budgets and administration, ensuring clear communication and efficient workflow.  Work with the Director of Administration and External Affairs to develop and distribute internal communications related to museum administrative operations and strategic initiatives.

  • Represent the Director’s office in various settings when needed, including meetings with staff, external collaborators, and visitors.

Position Qualifications

Education and/or experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in education and experience

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in office business management, administrative, or operations roles.  Preferably at an arts organization, non-profit, or educational environment.

• Excellent organizational and project management skills, including the ability to anticipate, prioritize, track tasks, organize and communicate information.

• Strong financial management skills, interpret and present financial data and track spending in alignment with budget planning and forecasting.

• Demonstrated ability to problem-solve and act with initiative.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders.

• Demonstrated ability to analyze and synthesize data.

• High level of computer proficiency with Google and Microsoft Office suites (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs and Sheets) and proficiency with (or high capacity to learn) project management tools (e.g., Workday, Airtable, Asana).

• Ability to use excellent judgment and maintain a high level of professionalism and confidentiality.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in an academic or museum setting

• Familiarity with museum operations, fundraising, board management, exhibition management, and cultural programming.

• Knowledge of human resources and vendor management best practices.

Physical/Mental Demands

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform essential functions of this position and/or may be encountered while performing essential functions.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• To successfully perform the essential functions of this position, an employee must be able to maintain appropriate confidentiality with regard to employee data, documents, issues, etc., and respect privacy needs of employees and past employees with regard to the same.

• The ability to comply with highly inflexible deadlines is required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position; there will be multiple occurrences of sudden, urgent task completion required.

• There may be occurrences of employees, past employees, members of the general public, and others who express opinions, may exhibit strong emotions, which will require the employee to interact professionally, diplomatically, and appropriately in such situations.

• While performing the essential duties of this position, an employee would frequently be required to move around the office space as well as within hallways, meeting rooms, and other parts of the campus facilities. 

• There may be multiple/daily instances of prolonged personal computer use which would include keyboard and/or mouse usage as well as viewing a computer monitor.

• An employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds to perform essential position functions.

• Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.

• The overall work environment requires the mental ability to shift focus quickly due to interruptions; an employee must be able to mentally track multiple projects and tasks as well.

• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate; however, there may be unexpected instances of somewhat loud sounds.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should apply electronically by clicking the “Apply Now” button on the Colby College website.  Please upload a cover letter and resume to your application.

• The Old York Historical Society (“Old York”), celebrating its 125^th anniversary as a museum, seeks an energetic and engaged Executive Director to lead the organization to a new era of success. Old York stewards 10 historic buildings, including two designated National Historic Landmarks. In addition, Old York cares for and preserves one of the best collections of locally provenanced colonial artifacts in New England. Situated in the scenic oceanfront town of York in Southern Maine, the organization has long been an integral part of the local community. Old York is fortunate to have a stable financial base and now seeks a leader with dynamic fundraising abilities to engage the community and elevate the organization from stable to stellar. Old York has a dedicated and motivated board ready to support a forward move, along with an amazing and talented staff poised to make it happen.

  Key expectations for the Executive Director are:

  Be the face of Old York to all constituencies

• Effectively articulate Old York’s mission and the scope and value of its collections, properties, knowledge base and contributions to the community
• Enhance the organization’s identity and reputation; be a community leader
• In all interactions and as the primary advocate for Old York, be an active storyteller and listener, exhibit contagious enthusiasm, and nurture relationships of trust
• Demonstrate subject matter expertise in relevant history and museum operations 
  
  Identify and execute opportunities to grow Old York
• Lead and expand Old York’s fundraising and development activities to reach agreed upon goals. Demonstrate best practices in donor relations
• Expand financial resources through strategic development, creative programming, community engagement and other methods
• Implement the organization’s recently completed strategic plan, collaborating with the board and staff to prioritize action steps for maximum effectiveness
• Expand and optimize access to Old York’s resources, leading efforts to expand staffing, develop properties, digitize archive and objects collections, and reimagine interpreted spaces
• Strengthen and expand individual and organizational relationships; be a connection builder

• Develop mutually beneficial partnerships with local and regional organizations
  
  Manage Old York’s internal operations
• Be an active, strategic, and responsible steward of the organization’s resources
• Exhibit hands-on management of the organization’s administrative and facilities functions
• Oversee and support curatorial, preservation, finance, marketing, programming, education and visitor services activities, staff, and volunteers
• Create a professional, goal-oriented work environment that empowers and supports staff achievement through clear goals and priorities
• Develop and manage an annual operating budget as approved by the board; oversee endowment funds
• Maintain strong board relationships, emphasizing collaboration and transparency and adhering to the principles of non-profit governance

Particulars:

Position – Executive Director, Old York Historical Society Full-time, year-round, in-person located in York, Maine Starting date - January 2, 2026

Compensation - $75,000 salary, plus benefits

Qualifications:

Strong knowledge of, interest in, or experience in the history museum field

3-5 years of skillfully running a nonprofit organization or a department within one Proven staff development and management experience

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; advanced degree preferred Enthusiasm for and record of success in fundraising

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Application process:

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three job-related references to oldyorkexec@gmail.com

Submission deadline – September 8, 2025

Old York Historical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Sanford-Springvale Historical Society is looking for a Collections & Archives Intern to begin as soon as possible. 

This internship is ongoing and available to degree and non-degree interns.  The honorarium is $2,000 and will be paid at the conclusion of the internship.  It is expected the intern put in 120-140 hours in order to be eligible for the honorarium and will be based upon performance.  Please send your cover letter and resume to Patricia Violette-Adams at pviolette@sanfordhistory.org.

Description:

This paid internship is designed as an introduction to the basic theories, methodologies, significant challenges and opportunities relating to the management of records, particularly archival records, the practical administration of archives, and the institutions, programs, and associations that support this work. This course will provide a basic understanding of archives and archival work which will enable students to better understand the role of archives in the world of information management and enable them to perceive differences and similarities between archivists, records managers, manuscript curators, rare book librarians, librarians, and other information professionals. 

The course will address the following key questions:

• What are collections and archives and why are they important?
• What principles and concepts guide the work of curators?
• What are the basic components of curatorial program?
• How does Collections and Education provide the background for a well-thought interpretation?
• How are archival records appraised, arranged and described, and made available for use?
• What are the basic elements of a records management program and how does that impact archives?
• What has been the impact of new information technologies on archival theory and practice?
• What is the future of the collections and archival profession?

Student Learning Outcomes:

This course will:

• introduce students to the basic theoretical principles and methodologies and the various practices involved in administering archives and records management programs.
• provide a basic understanding of archival work so that students can make an informed decision about pursuing a professional career in archives.
• provide a basic understanding of the importance of records in the information age and of records management as an important tool and function in an archival program.
• provide a basic understanding of how new information technologies are transforming archival theory and practice and how archivists are attempting to meet this challenge.
• introduce students to the classic writings in the archives and records management professions.
• encourage interns to begin thinking critically about strategies for managing the archival record in the modern information age.
• prepare students for internships in an archival repository and prepare them for more advanced classes or workshops in archival administration or records management.
• Prepare and train students to use PastPerfect – the museum standard database program to track collections.

Primary Requirements:

Course requirements include:

• adequate preparation to discuss the required reading assignments and fully participate in discussions and exercises.
• composition of weekly 2-paragraph reflections that will gauge your understanding of the processes or in response to questions posed by the Executive Director. Reflections are due at the end of each week and can be emailed to pviolette@sanfordhistory.org.
• Exhibit planning and creation
• PastPerfect database training and implementation
• Attend Acquisition and Accession Committee Meetings

Assessment:

Homework assignments:  Students will sometimes be asked to read professional development documents and take part in discussions. Students will be asked to visit one (1) historical society to examine how they document their collections and ask questions on their normal day-to-day operations of curation.  A list will be provided for the students to choose their site. 

Participation: Attendance, participation during demonstrations, and leading discussion of assigned readings.

Project:  The intern will assist with exhibit creation. Students will submit a plan based on ideas provided by the Executive Director. The plan will address the exhibit goals and objectives, potential collaborators/partners, supplies, budget, and exhibit outline. Students will assist with any fundraising associated with the exhibit.

Final Paper: The students will submit a 3–5-page essay describing your experience with our organization. The essay will include suggestions for moving forward, innovative thoughts on bringing technology into exhibitions, and a general overall reflection of what you learned and how this content knowledge will guide your future career efforts. Students will be expected to draw from the readings, research and weekly discussions from the entire semester.

The Sanford-Springvale Historical Society, in conjunction with the Sanford Historical Committee, collects, preserves, and displays artifacts, documents, records, photographs and other materials and objects of historical interest. The Society makes its collections available to the public and offers educational opportunities through museum open hours and special tours for schools and other groups. It encourages interest in history through its newsletter and public lectures, demonstrations, and offers music programs to enhance the community's cultural life.

The Sanford-Springvale Historical Society (SSHS) is seeking an intern interested in the development and marketing to help provide the Historical Society with funding sources to support various operational projects of our museum.  The intern will work with our Executive Director and Finance Committee. The internship will run for a full semester, with at least a 16 hour per week commitment. 

Summary
As a non-profit organization, SSHS relies on grants, corporate partnerships, event sponsorships, and individual donations to fund its critical work and continue to grow. This internship provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands on experience in nonprofit fundraising, donor relations and event management. The Development Intern will help secure and maintain funding through various fundraising strategies, such as grant writing, with responsibilities including donor outreach, event coordination, and research. This is an ideal opportunity for individuals interested in nonprofit work and philanthropy. There will be a $2,000 honorarium at the completion of the internship.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in identifying potential donors and help to manage relationships with existing donors
• Draft engaging content for donor communications, including fundraising appeals, event sponsorships and press releases.
• Support post-event activities, including outreach, stewardship, event analysis, and event wrap-up.
• Provide assistance with data entry, analysis, and database clean-up to ensure accurate donor records through the use of Salesforce CRM.
• Assist with various administrative and research tasks related to development activities.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or graduated with a degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
• Strong attention to detail, ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Interest in nonprofit fundraising, donor relations, event planning.
• Familiarity with fundraising software or databases is a plus but not required.

Physical Abilities Statement
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time
• The person in this position occasionally needs to move about the inside of the office to access filing cabinets, office machinery, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a copy machine.

Fall internship application deadline is September 15, 2025, though applications may be considered on a rolling basis. Please send a cover letter and resume to:  Patricia Violette-Adams at pviolette@sanfordhistory.org.  No phone calls please.

It is the policy of SSHS not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status.

Exhibit Designer

Maine Maritime Museum (MMM) is an independent, nonprofit institution dedicated to connecting people to the past, present, and future of Maine’s waterways and their global reach. The stories we share include different backgrounds, perspectives, and voices—and because our museum welcomes visitors from around the world—our institution is committed to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. If you believe in museums’ role to reveal the past, inform the present, and shape the future, we invite you to join our team.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Exhibit Designer enacts the mission and goals of Maine Maritime Museum by supporting the planning, fabrication, and maintenance of high-quality exhibits that engage audiences of all ages and abilities with thought-provoking content and hands-on learning interactives.

Reporting to the Director of Exhibits & Learning and working in close collaboration with educators, curators, and other museum staff and volunteers, this position supports the execution of new exhibitions and the repair and maintenance of existing and permanent exhibits. As a key member of the Exhibits & Learning Department, the Exhibit Designer is involved in all aspects of the exhibit development process, requiring a commitment to iterative design, creative problem solving, and collaboration. Using principles of experiential design, the Exhibit Designer supports the creation of immersive and inclusive exhibits that connect diverse audiences to the museum’s mission and collection.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Exhibit Planning & Design

● Work with the Director of Exhibits & Learning to develop exhibit concepts from ideation to installation, translating key learning objectives into immersive, interactive spaces that prioritize visitor experience and meet accessibility standards.

● Devise exhibit elements that convey complex concepts to diverse audiences through multimodal and multisensory interactives and media.

● Create 3D renderings, concept illustrations, and drawn plans to graphically communicate concepts, identify building materials, and inform exhibit fabrication.

● Design exhibit elements within allotted budgetary and time constraints.

● Support in the coordination of artists, scholars, curators, volunteers, and fabricators.

Exhibit Fabrication, Installation, & Maintenance

● Develop imaginative, immersive environments, including via structural fabrication, media installations, projections, painting, and lighting arrays.

● Work with various materials including wood, metal, foam, and plastics.

● Create lighting plans and assist in the installation of lighting fixtures and elements.

● Assist in the formatting, wiring, and installation of various media players and screens, including digital signage, projectors, and touch screens.

● Support in the creation of installation timelines and schedules.

● Conduct regular maintenance checks, identify technical issues, and make repairs, including structural, electrical, mechanical, and software.

● Assist in the management of volunteers and contractors throughout the installation process.

● Work with Facilities staff on spatial and electrical adjustments to exhibit spaces.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

● Degree or equivalent experience in exhibition design, architectural design, graphic design, sculpture, fabrication, media design, or related field*

● 3–5 years of experience in design, construction, fabrication, or similar*

● Dedication to universal design, including an understanding of ADA standards and sensory accommodations as well as a commitment to creating inclusive environments

● Experience with tools and equipment for carpentry and basic electrical work

● Experience with 3D modeling software such as SketchUp, Fusion 360, or similar

● Experience with graphic design software, preferably within the Adobe Creative Cloud suite

● Familiarity with various building materials, lighting systems, projectors, digital signage, and other electronics, or the ability and interest to learn

● Experience with video editing, animation, and projection mapping preferred but not required

● Demonstrated ability to adapt to ever-changing challenges and to learn new skills on the job

● Strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities

● Strong attention to detail

● Commitment to seeking and incorporating sustainable materials and practices

● Willingness to work occasional weekends, evenings, and outdoors

● Ability to lift, carry, and move exhibit components and to work in various positions, including on ladders, preferred but not required

*Will consider an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience

Terms and How to Apply

The Exhibit Designer position is a full-time, salaried, exempt position with full benefits in Bath, Maine.  Salary is $50,000 per year.  Please submit a cover letter and resume to: hr@maritimeme.org

This position is subject to sex offender and criminal background checks.

Maine Maritime Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not tolerate discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, age, protected genetic information, status as a parent, marital status, political affiliation, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

Apply through link only:

https://colby.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/ColbyCareers/details/Head-Curator_R0005624-1

Job Description

Head Curator

Colby College Museum of Art

Waterville, Maine

Full Time

Job ID # R0005624

Salary Range:  $125,000-$140,000

Please upload a cover letter and resume to your application. Priority will be given to candidates that apply by June 20, 2025.

 The Colby College Museum of Art seeks an experienced, imaginative, strategic, and collaborative leader to serve as head curator. Reporting to the Colby Museum’s director, the head curator is part of the museum’s senior leadership team, advancing the overarching mission and goals of the museum and the College. 

They lead the curatorial staff, directing the curatorial contribution to the Colby Museum’s artistic, research, and interpretive vision. The head curator  supervises and mentors five full-time staff  as well as student interns, ensuring teamwork, effective management, and innovative work that is also pragmatic in its approach. They lead the development of a multi-year exhibition schedule, including Colby-organized projects that travel to other venues, in partnership with the museum’s director and the director of exhibitions and publications. They shape and enact the collections development strategy, and oversee acquisitions and deaccessions with guidance from the Collections and Impact Committee of the museum board of governors. They direct the ongoing research and presentation of its renowned collection, and partner with collections and operations staff to ensure the comprehensive stewardship of the museum’s holdings. They collaboratively develop accessible interpretation strategies with the engagement team and other constituencies. The head curator partners with the Lunder Institute for American Art to help identify mission-aligned opportunities related to fellowships, programming, and areas of inquiry that can benefit from research, field-wide dialogue, and documentation. Beyond these responsibilities, The head curator curates a selection of projects within the multi-year cycle of exhibitions and museum publications, and contributes new scholarship. 

Day to day, the head curator balances creativity and ambition with pragmatism as they manage staff, projects, budgets, timelines, and workloads. They maximize resources and actively contribute to fundraising in partnership with Advancement staff in order to allow the museum to remain a generative and innovative institution. They maintain active relationships with supporters and partners, and represent the museum in a variety of contexts in Maine and beyond. 

As part of the museum’s senior team, the head curator provides ongoing institutional-level advice to the museum’s director. They foster an equitable and inclusive culture that prioritizes collective accomplishment and values a diversity of perspectives and expertise in project development. They seek to increase access to the museum for Colby students, faculty, families, and alumni; artists, peers, and scholars; and local and regional communities, strengthening the Colby Museum’s reputation as one of the nation’s leading academic museums and as a destination for American art. With the museum’s director, other senior leaders, and the museum’s board, the head curator plays an essential role envisioning, planning, and leading institutional initiatives that significantly advance the museum’s mission and goals.  

The museum’s trajectory of evolution and increased visibility is entering a new phase. In the coming years the Colby Museum aspires to strategically adapt and expand its facilities to support an innovative model for the care of and access to its collection, with the possibility of an art conservation program that would be uniquely designed for Colby’s liberal arts context. These ambitions seek to promote and encourage interdisciplinary research, learning, and pathways at the undergraduate level while  increasing the museum’s capacity to manage its collection and engage wider audiences with art, including launching a new art-on-campus program. The head curator will be an essential partner and leader in researching and advancing these initiatives.  

About the Colby College Museum of Art
Founded in 1959, the Colby Museum is a leading academic art museum, with strengths in American art and contemporary art, at one of the nation’s preeminent liberal arts colleges. In keeping with Colby’s liberal arts mission, the museum advances a mission of access and acts as a forum for research, experimentation, dialogue, and joyful connection. Its programs seek to inspire and generate possibilities, so that everyone can become more curious, nimble, and able to contribute to a changing world. The museum incubates art scholarship and practice in ways that explore and expand how the idea of America is understood and how art is made, interpreted, and shared. It does so by supporting new research, organizing and presenting ambitious exhibitions and thoughtful displays of its collection, providing mentorship, and convening a diversity of people and perspectives. The museum grows and uses its collection to activate the power of art to expand the imagination and forge new connections, leading to a more open and compassionate society.  

In the past decade, the Colby Museum has grown rapidly and now encompasses nearly 40,000 square feet of exhibition space. The collection has nearly doubled since 2012 to include nearly 11,000 objects. The museum now produces approximately twelve exhibitions a year and two publications. The museum has expanded to include two sites in downtown Waterville: the Greene Block + Studios, where the Lunder Institute for American Art is based, and the Paul J. Schupf Art Center, which includes the museum’s Joan Dignam Schmaltz Gallery of Art. Learning and engagement programs have also increased in reach and impact, drawing over 16,000 people in the past year. This includes collaborations with over 180 courses a year in nearly 30 departments across the College and class visits by 3,000 K–12 students and educators each year.

Essential Functions

To succeed in this position, an individual must be able to perform essential duties satisfactorily as well as possess the education/experience and employ the knowledge, skills, and abilities as generally listed here. Colby College actively supports the Americans with Disabilities Act and will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. This listing of essential duties is not all-inclusive, but representative; other duties may be assigned.

Leadership, Management, and Program Development

·       Inform and lead on strategic and long-range museum initiatives related to the museum’s artistic program. Convey the organization’s vision, plans, and annual institutional priorities. Initiate and facilitate external partnerships that advance the museum’s mission and curatorial priorities. 

·       Articulate and enact the curatorial vision informed by the museum’s context, the field of art, and larger questions in contemporary life. Engage constituencies and communities in this process and anticipate challenges, creating pathways for meaningful engagement.

·       Supervise and mentor the curatorial staff and interns, fostering teamwork within and across the museum (current direct reports: four curators and one curatorial fellow); establish and manage workflows and delegate projects and tasks. Provide guidance related to project content and approach. Communicate regularly with the curatorial team to align priorities and clarify roles. Ensure the effective completion of projects as well as accountability to the curatorial work and to each other. Anticipate and, as needed, address challenges as these arise. 

·       Inform exhibition and curatorial budgets on an annual and multi-year basis in collaboration with the director of exhibitions and publications, as well as senior team leaders. Ensure effective budget management and inform exhibition and collection contracts. 

·       Foster a supportive and collaborative culture. In keeping with Colby’s values, model and encourage self-awareness in matters of equity and access, applying these principles to management practices and the development of the museum’s program. Shape staff learning processes and ensure the professional development of curatorial staff. 

·       Develop and nurture relationships with artists, collectors, dealers, and donors. Represent the Colby Museum, serving as a visible and vocal advocate on campus, locally, regionally, nationally and, as appropriate, internationally. Advocate for the arts at Colby and the College’s vision for academic and community impact. Travel and interact with a range of peers to ensure the visibility of the museum’s contributions.
 

Collection Development and Stewardship

·       Strategy, policies, and practices: Establish and enact the strategy for long-term collections development and related initiatives. Set practices and policies with the deputy director of planning and operations and manager of collections and registration and with guidance from the Museum Board of Governors. Lead acquisition and deaccessioning processes and decisions in partnership with the collections team members, the museum director, and the museum board of governors. Oversee and advance collection-related processes and practices. Serve as liaison to the Collections and Impact Committee of the Museum Board of Governors. 

·       Acquisitions: Lead and manage the cycle of identifying, vetting, and proposing art acquisitions. Cultivate collectors and artists and pursue gifts of art and artworks for purchase.

·       Loans: Assess loan requests in partnership with collections and engagement staff. 

·       Research and display: Set the agenda for research and display in relation to the museum’s collection.

·       Collections Care and Documentation: Oversee curatorial team's role in developing collections content, contributing to the timely documentation and access of the collection. Inform needs for storage and conservation. Ensure orderly maintenance of curatorial archives. Inform plans for spaces, digital access, and workflows that support the collection and access to it. 

·       Art on campus: Work with the museum director, deputy director for planning and operations, manager of collections and registration, and the College to develop over time an art on campus program, contributing curatorial vision to this initiative. Eventually supervise an art on campus curator/registrar.
 

Exhibitions, Publications and Programs

·       Process and structure: Collaboratively develop effective and inclusive processes for proposing and vetting exhibitions. Facilitate cross-departmental work and, with other museum senior team leaders, share responsibility for interconnected program development related to exhibitions, research, collections development, interpretation, learning and engagement, and publications.

·       Exhibition schedule: Plan a sustainable and inspired multi-year exhibition schedule (approximately ten to twelve exhibitions annually on site, with one or more traveling annually) in partnership with the director of exhibitions and publications. Identify and help secure institutional partnerships for exhibitions and co-producing arrangements for projects that travel.

·       Curatorial leadership: Guide curatorial staff in generating exhibitions and programs that make the most of the collection and museum resources, enact the museum’s mission, garner attention, and both interrogate and broaden established narratives of art, especially American art.

·       Curation: Initiate exhibitions and/or serve as venue curator for select loan and collection projects within the multi-year program cycle; guide the curation of the permanent collection galleries, delegating responsibilities.  

·       Learning and Engagement: Inform and support the pedagogical and strategic vision for engagement and interpretation of the museum’s artistic content, producing content and at times leading or co-leading programs, including class visits, public programs, and other forms of academic and public engagement. 

·       Scholarship and Interpretation: Generate and at times edit scholarly publications and other forms of writings (essays, exhibition texts, labels, and digitally shared content) related to the exhibition program and the collection.

·       Community: Participate in cross-departmental and community-based committees and initiatives.

External Communications and Fundraising

·       Provide content to inform fundraising and communications. Draft content, including grant proposals and reports, grants and mentor staff in this process; ensure the timely contribution of content by curatorial staff.

·       Cultivate donors and actively solicit gifts of art. Partner with the director to steward relationships with key benefactors as well as artists who are represented in the museum’s collection. Regularly report on donor interactions and communications.

·       Cultivate and solicit collectors and donors to support artistic projects, collections development, and museum priorities in consultation with the director, deputy director for planning and operations, director of museum development and Advancement colleagues.

·       Actively represent the museum in media stories, digital contexts and in-person settings.

·       Participate in local, regional, and art world events making the museum visible among the communities we serve while listening and learning from our audiences and partners.

·       Inspire a positive and supportive working relationship with the Museum Board of Governors and attend meetings, serving as committee liaison for collections and impact.  

Position Qualifications 

Education and Experience: 

·       Masters degree required, knowledge of art history and proven track record of direct working relationships with artists, exhibition-making, and collections.

·       Seven to ten years of experience working in the arts, culture and/or education; minimum five years of progressive leadership experience in curatorial practice in exhibition, publications, collections, and artistic program management. Minimum two years of experience managing full time staff. 

·       Distinguished track record of planning and realizing exhibitions and publications, conducting strategic collections research and development, and collaborating on interpretation and public programs. 

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

·       Effective management and mentorship of staff, students, and emerging professionals including skills in fostering teamwork

·       Strong organizational skills and ability to establish and communicate priorities; project and budget management skills, cross-departmental leadership and collaboration skills, meeting management; negotiation skills.

·       Strong written and oral communication skills, including interpersonal skills and public speaking; ability to compellingly communicate the museum’s mission, vision, and artistic program to a diversity of audiences.

·       Demonstrated passion for the value of a liberal arts education and commitment to fostering an equitable work environment supportive of people from different cultures, backgrounds, and life paths.

·       Ability to use a team approach to plan and produce complex, interdisciplinary programming and to integrate community engagement within curatorial processes of exhibition-making and interpretation. Ability to assess and act on opportunities to increase the narrative complexity and diversity of the museum’s collections and programs, advance equity in our daily practices and work culture, and to promote and implement inclusive practices across all aspects of curatorial work. 

Key Relationships

·       College: Museum Director; President; Provost and other Colby Senior Staff; Advancement and Colby Communications staff; Director, Arts Office; Director, Center for Arts and Humanities; Chair, Art Department and faculty across the College

·       Museum: Deputy Director for Planning and Operations; Director, Lunder Institute for American Art; Director, Museum Development; curatorial staff; Mirken Director, Learning and Engagement; Director of Administration and External Affairs; Director of Exhibitions and Publications; Manager of Museum Collections and Registration; Manager of Communications.

·       External: Broad external relationships with donors, artists, art dealers, journalists, collectors, as well as Maine-based arts partners

Physical/Mental Demands

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform essential functions of this position and/or may be encountered while performing essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 

·       To successfully perform the essential functions of this position, an employee must be able to maintain appropriate confidentiality with regard to employee data, documents, issues, etc., and respect privacy needs of employees and past employees with regard to the same.

·       The employee must be able to be on site in Waterville on a nearly daily basis with exceptions for travel, offsite meetings and events, and select remote work

·       The ability to comply with highly inflexible deadlines is required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position; there will be multiple occurrences of sudden, urgent task completion required. 

·       This position requires extensive interpersonal interaction with colleagues, members of the public, College leaders, and patrons. There may be occurrences of employees, past employees, members of the general public, and others who express opinions, may exhibit strong emotions, which will require the employee to interact professionally, diplomatically, and appropriately in such situations.

·       While performing the essential duties of this position, an employee would frequently be required to move around the office space as well as within hallways, meeting rooms, and other parts of the campus facilities.  

·       There may be multiple/daily instances of prolonged personal computer use which would include keyboard and/or mouse usage as well as viewing a computer monitor.

·       This position requires that the candidate have an active driver’s license, the ability to drive, and the ability to regularly travel domestically and at times internationally

·       Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus. 

·       The overall work environment requires the mental ability to shift focus quickly due to interruptions; an employee must be able to mentally track multiple projects and tasks concurrently.

·       The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate; however, there may be unexpected instances of somewhat loud sounds.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should apply electronically by clicking the “Apply Now” button on the Colby College website.  Please upload a cover letter and resume to your application. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 

https://colby.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/ColbyCareers/details/Head-Curator_R0005624-1