Museum Manager at National Inventors Hall of Fame

The Museum Manager will facilitate the day-to-day operations of the National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum and store. This position will be responsible for interfacing with the USPTO, running the NIHF Museum, coordinating museum store sales, and delivering exceptional guest service. The position will also support other recognition programs.

Position Responsibilities

• Leads and mentors on-site staff in the use of proven techniques to properly service guests, run the museum and exhibits, promote sales, and effectively address any issues.
• Provide leadership, communication, coaching, and development to the Museum Associate team, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
• Interview and train high quality Museum Associates, as needed.
• Coordinates with staff at headquarters to achieve museum responsibilities.
• Coordinates with USPTO regarding special events, VIP visitors, and other matters.
• Demonstrates superior guest services and professionalism to ensure a positive museum experience for visitors.
• Provides on-site interface for USPTO.
• Maintains a thorough understanding of all levels of the daily museum and retail operating procedures, ensuring that exhibits and other systems are in good working order and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and process documentation.
• Responsible for daily accounting, receiving merchandise, operating reports, and tracking of all purchases and sales. Maintains appropriate visual merchandising and product display, promotional planning and implementation, and inventory control for increased store profitability to meet museum store sales goals.
• Identifies opportunities to promote the NIHF and museum as a destination for area schools, visitor bureaus, and hotels.
• Develops a well-versed and current knowledge of the offerings of the NIHF, museum, and store, demonstrating a high level of professional courtesy in all interactions with visitors and co-workers.
• Schedules, leads, and/or manages group tours.
• Work closely with Ohio staff to plan and execute museum installations, providing hands-on support throughout the year.
• Coordinates on-site museum events and meetings for NIHF or other partners.
• Participate in physical lifting, climbing (ladders), and other hands-on museum maintenance.
• Conduct minor hands-on exhibit repair and maintenance under guidance of Ohio-based facilities and IT staff.
• In coordination with Ohio office, manage and track all artifact loans and purchases.
• Ensure appropriate on-site care and handling of all artifacts on display at NIHF Museum.
• Support needs related to NIHF Inductee content, such as the organization, documentation, and transcription of Inductee interviews; as well as provide writing support for NIHF Musuem exhibits.
• Coordinate and provide support for NIHF recognition programs, such as the annual Induction event and the Collegiate Inventors Competition, and Museum and special projects.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Adept verbal and written communicator with a demonstrated comfort level in speaking publicly
• Must possess solid computer skills
• Ability to problem solve and work independently
• Must be able to work efficiently under pressure
• Self-directed, motivated, flexible
• Ability to interact with all levels of professional contacts, including executives, civil servants, inventors, scientists, members of the public

Credentials and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, history, history of technology, marketing, or related areas
• Master’s degree in history, history of technology, or related areas preferred
• 3+ years of management, retail, and/or related work experience required
• Museum/specialty retail background with an understanding of specialty retail concepts
• Proven experience in cash management and budgetary accountability

Special Requirements

• This position requires coverage for monthly Saturday operating hours as needed and occasional attendance at special events outside of normal hours.

Why Join the National Inventors Hall of Fame?

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Enjoy top-tier medical, dental, 100% employer paid vision, and insurance plans, along with flexible spending accounts to help pay for any out-of-pocket medical expenses.
• Company-Paid Benefits: NIHF contributes 100% to provide life and disability coverages.
• Secure Your Future: Benefit from our 401(k) plan with up to a 4% employer match and 100% vesting upon initial contribution, ensuring your financial stability and growth.
• Generous Time Off: Take advantage of paid time off, paid holidays, and a year-end closure from December 24th through January 1st to recharge.
• Additional Support: Access Critical Illness, Hospital, and Accident Supplemental Income plans for extra peace of mind.
• Pet-Friendly Perks: Protect your furry friends with our pet insurance plans.
• Thriving Work Environment: Be part of a great team environment with ample opportunities for growth and a culture that prioritizes professional development.