About Our Organization

Founded in 1968, the Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. It is a site for the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society.

Job Summary

The Studio Museum seeks an experienced Museum Educator to work full-time across Learning and Engagement programs, to facilitate educational experiences that connect publics with art and artists of African descent. Museum Educators are responsible for leading inquiry-driven discussions, art-making workshops, and other activations across program areas including Group Tours, School and Community Partnerships, Family and Educator Programs, Access Programs, and Adult Public Programs to engage audiences with the Museum’s exhibitions and permanent collection. Museum Educators also work closely with department staff to develop a host of onsite and online learning resources designed to inspire exploration of artwork, encourage critical thought and reflection around idea, support classroom curricula, and enliven the museum experience. Work across these areas is determined by program goals and priorities, and the educator’s schedule.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Group Tours and Partnerships

• Develop and lead inquiry-based gallery tours and tours with art-making workshops for visiting groups that engage visitors in discussion and exploration of ideas presented in exhibitions on view.
• In collaboration with Learning and Engagement staff, classroom teachers, and partner organizations, plan and facilitate school and community program sessions and workshops, including attending planning and assessment meetings
• Facilitate pre- and post-partnership evaluations, and assist with program documentation
• Order and prepare art materials for partnerships in advance, collaborate with partnership coordinators for transport of materials to partnership sites.
• In collaboration with museum staff and partner organization, assist with planning the installation of student/participant artwork displays and partnership culminating events.
• Maintain regular flow of information from partnerships to the Director of Education and other Museum staff regarding partnership activities and progress.
• Participate in exhibition trainings, periodic professional development sessions, program reflections, and peer observations

Programs

• Co-facilitate regular professional development programs for Pre-K –12 educators, leading gallery tours and art-making workshops that model strategies for integrating art across curricula.
• Lead occasional gallery tours and art workshops as part of public programs, membership programs, and access programs.
• Assist in occasional large-scale museum-wide events by leading gallery tours, facilitating workshops or other engaging activities in the museum.

Learning Resources

• Work together with the Director of Education and Communications team to produce and write in-gallery and online interpretative materials including online lesson plans, exhibition guides, verbal descriptions, educational activities and other resource materials connected to exhibitions, programs and partnerships
• Write alt text for digitized artworks in the permanent collection.
• Collaborate with the Director of Education and Communications team to develop submissions and writing for Studio Magazine
• Other duties as assigned

Skills and Qualifications  

• Demonstrated ability in the successful development and maintenance of projects in programs and partnerships
• Ability to work with close attention to detail and maintain confidentiality
• Excellent communication, problem solving, administrative, and organization skills, and time management
• Demonstrated ability to work professionally and tactfully, while representing the Museum with a high level of integrity and professionalism
• Adherence to Museum policies and support of Learning & Engagement Department decisions in a positive, professional manner
• Experience working with school, family and adult audiences
• Passion for the mission of achieving artistic and educational excellence, expanding the traditional definition of education

Education and Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art, Art History, Cultural Studies, Art Education, Expressive Arts Therapy, Creative Art Therapy, or related fields
• At least 2 years of relevant experience in arts and museum education with responsibilities in planning, development and implementation of educational programs
• Knowledge of contemporary art and artists of African descent
• Understanding of inquiry-based teaching practice and person-centered therapeutic framework

Physical Demands 

• Sitting/Standing/Walking: Approximately 70% of time is spent moving around the work areas including the museum’s galleries, workshops and partnership locations around the city. Balance of time (approximately 30%) working at a desk or in meetings.
• Speaking/Hearing: Ability to effectively communicate with co-workers, visitors and outside agencies, by phone, email and in person.
• Vision: Ability to see art objects and to effectively use a computer screen, interpret digital and printed materials, and other appropriate museum materials.

Work Environment 

• This position is a non-exempt position, requiring a minimum of 35 working hours per week.
• Fast-paced environment with varying levels of guests and employees present.
• Office locations are wheelchair accessible, with elevators in the building. Other accessibility accommodations can be further discussed.
• Office desks include acrylic partitions, and the Museum adheres to COVID-19 safety guidelines as mandated by New York City and State.

Compensation

$65,000 annually

Salary is commensurate with experience within the guidelines of a small not-for-profit. A competitive benefits package is provided, including medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance, a retirement account, and substantial vacation time.

Application Instructions

Please upload your resume and a cover letter to your application. No phone calls or emails, please.  

Please note that while careful consideration will be given to each submission, only a select number of applicants will be contacted due to the volume of interest.

The Studio Museum in Harlem is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, gender identification, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage folks of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. At the Studio Museum, we are committed to having an inclusive and transparent environment where every voice is heard and acknowledged. We embrace our differences, and know that our diverse team is a strength that drives our success.  

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.