Museum Programming Assistant

Overview: The Museum Public Programming Assistant plays a key role in supporting the development and delivery of educational and public engagement programs at Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University. Reporting to the Deputy Director of Museum Operations and Engagement, this entry-level position is ideal for individuals passionate about science communication, formal and informal education, and engaging diverse audiences in meaningful learning experiences. The assistant will help implement hands-on activities, facilitate museum experiences, support special events, and assist in program logistics for visitors, groups, and the community.

We’re looking for someone with a bright personality, a strong work ethic, and positive attitude—whether indoors or outdoors, early mornings or late nights, weekdays or weekends. The right person will bring enthusiasm, positivity, and professionalism to everything they do, ensuring every visitor has an exceptional experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the delivery of on-site and off-site programs, including, but not limited to, interactive activities, workshops, speaker series, and community events.
• Facilitate hands-on learning experiences that align with the museum’s mission and themes.
• Collaborate with museum staff and community groups to build and strengthen partnerships that enhance programming.
• Partner with museum staff to enhance the museum’s loyalty and engagement programming, focusing on content curation and engagement opportunities.
• Provide a warm, friendly and informative visitor experience to guests of all ages.
• Support set-up and break-down of program materials and activity stations.
• Contribute creative ideas and feedback to enhance program development.
• Assist with data collection and evaluation of program effectiveness.
• Be available to work evenings, weekends, and early mornings as programming demands.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; some college coursework in education, museum studies, environmental science, or a related field preferred.
• Enthusiasm for science education and public engagement, and a deep commitment to our mission
• Exceptionally friendly, outgoing, and comfortable interacting with children, families, and large groups.
• Strong public speaking and storytelling skills; theater or performance experience is a bonus.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Flexible schedule with availability for work on weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Willingness and ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, and perform physical tasks such as moving supplies or leading outdoor activities.
• A strong affinity for the mission of the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum.
• Driver’s license and consistent access to a vehicle.

Work Setting:

• Museum headquarters is located in the lower level of the stunning new Edelman Fossil Park Museum. The headquarters suite features a reception area, private offices, a large open office area, three conference rooms, a kitchenette, team lounge, and outdoor patio, situated adjacent to a 4-acre lake.
• This is a full-time position with G&A Museum Operations, LLC, based at the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, in Mantua Township, NJ
• Primarily office-based, with outdoor work, and with regular interaction in museum public spaces.
• May require early mornings, nights, or weekends based on programming schedules.

Compensation Range: $40,000 - $45,000 salary plus benefits

Organization: G&A Museum Operations Mantua LLC, operating at the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University in Mantua Township, NJ

Sustainability: The core concept behind the Jean & Ric Edelman Fossil Park Museum is that we must learn from Earth’s deep past to guide our way into the future. The extinction of the dinosaurs serves as a cautionary tale for the multiple, simultaneous existential crises we face today. In the Hall of Extinction & Hope, visitors will confront the alarming facts about the unfolding climate and biodiversity crises. And they will learn why there is hope in the battle to save Earth’s atmosphere and biosphere, and that we all must act now to create the future that we all wish for our posterity. Finally, through a personalized RFID system, visitors will connect with sustainability programs and organizations, giving them a sense of agency and avenues through which they can make a positive difference.

Carbon Net-Zero and Sustainable Construction

The Jean & Ric Edelman Fossil Park Museum is an all-electric building, deriving its energy from photovoltaics and geothermal heating and cooling.

At Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, we treasure the diversity of our planet's history and are committed to reflecting that diversity in our team. Edelman Fossil Park & Museum is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law.