Rate of Pay: $37,000 – $42,000 annually DOE

Reports to:  Executive Director

Salary Classification:  Full-Time, Exempt, (40 hrs/ in person)

Typical Schedule:Tuesday–Saturday, aligned with museum hours and occasional evenings for programs

ABOUT THE COOS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The CCHS fosters a deeper understanding of the history, culture, waterways, and people of Coos County and Oregon’s South Coast. Through the work of the Coos History Museum, we preserve and share stories, artifacts, photographs, and documents that illuminate our past and present. By creating meaningful and engaging educational programs and exhibits, we aim to deepen understanding and foster a strong connection to our regional heritage.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Visitor Experience & Programs Manager is a key role responsible for delivering an exceptional visitor experience while developing and managing engaging public programs. This position oversees front-of-house operations, coordinates educational and community programming, manages the museum store, and supports marketing and events. As a highly visible, public-facing role, this position is ideal for a dynamic, organized professional who enjoys working with people, managing multiple priorities, and contributing creatively to a small museum environment.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Visitor Experience & Front-of-House

• Serve as the primary point of contact for visitors, ensuring a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging experience.
• Oversee daily front desk operations, including admissions, memberships, and visitor inquiries.
• Perform opening and closing procedures and serve as Manager on Duty.
• Supervise, train, and schedule front desk volunteers and support staff.
• Maintain a clean, organized lobby and public spaces.
• Track visitor attendance and contribute to reporting and evaluation efforts.

Museum Store Operations

• Manage daily operations of the museum store, including sales, merchandising, and customer service.
• Oversee inventory, product ordering, and vendor relationships.
• Develop and maintain retail offerings aligned with the museum’s mission and audience.
• Track sales performance and prepare basic reports.

Public Programs & Education

• Develop, implement, and evaluate public programs for diverse audiences, including lectures, workshops, and family programming.
• Coordinate and deliver school programs, including 4th-grade field trips.
• Schedule and manage speakers, tours, and recurring programs.
• Collaborate with schools, Tribal partners, and community organizations to expand programming.
• Provide tours and historical interpretation connected to exhibits.
• Assist with program budgets, grant-supported initiatives, and evaluation.

Events & Museum Support

• Coordinate and support museum events, rentals, and public programs.
• Assist with event setup, logistics, and vendor coordination.
• Support fundraising events and membership engagement activities.
• Assist with exhibit development, installation, and gallery maintenance as needed.

Marketing & Community Engagement

• Develop flyers, press releases, and other marketing collateral.
• Create and manage content for social media, website updates, and promotional materials.
• Engage with audiences online and in the community to increase participation and visibility.
• Monitor and evaluate marketing effectiveness and audience engagement.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience Museum Studies, Education, Anthropology, Public History, or related program. 
• 4+ years of experience in museums, education, visitor services, retail, hospitality, or a related field.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience with program coordination, education, or event planning.
• Experience with retail operations, POS systems, or cash handling.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a small team environment.
• Availability to work a Tuesday–Saturday schedule, including occasional evenings.
• Ability to lift and move supplies (20+ lb), merchandise, and equipment as needed.
• Comfort with social media, marketing tools, and basic digital platforms preferred
• Must pass a background check

BENEFITS OFFERED:

•   Paid Time Off
• Paid Sick Leave and Federal Holidays
•  Medical Insurance Expense Reimbursement
• Complimentary museum membership
• Employee Discount
• Free Parking

This is an opportunity to play a central role in shaping how visitors experience the museum while building meaningful connections with the community. As part of a small, collaborative team, you will be able to make a visible impact across programs, operations, and visitor engagement. Join our team and make a lasting impact!         

To Apply: https://cooshistory.org/employment-opportunities/

Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their background and experience. Please also include two professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and position is open until filled.

Please submit to: director@cooshistory.org

Subject Heading for correspondence: Visitor Experience and Programs Manager Application