Program and Events Manager

Position Summary

The Program & Events Manager is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating all museum programs, public events, workshops, and educational initiatives. This role manages existing signature programs while developing new mission-aligned programming that advances environmental learning, heritage interpretation, and community engagement.

This position reports to the Board Chair (or designated Board Committee) and works collaboratively with the Office Manager, volunteers, contractors, community partners, and rental clients.

This is a hands-on operational role ideal for a creative, organized professional who enjoys both program development and event logistics. This is not a standard 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. position. The Program & Events Manager is required to be physically present for most of the evening and weekend programs and events, including but not limited to lectures, festivals, workshops, rentals, and special gatherings. Work hours will flex; accordingly, however, regular evening and weekend availability is an essential function of this position.

This position is focused exclusively on the planning, coordination, and execution of programs and events. It is not a curatorial, collections management, exhibition design, or installation role. Responsibilities do not include oversight of the permanent collection, exhibit development, artifact handling, or existing display management.

Core Responsibilities

1. Program Management

• Oversee execution of existing museum programs and events.
• Create and maintain an annual program/events calendar in collaboration with the Board and Office Manager.
• Develop new mission-aligned programs focused on environmental education and heritage.
• Coordinate instructors, speakers, artists, and vendors.
• Manage program budgets and track and report financial performance.
• Evaluate attendance, feedback, and outcomes.

1. Event & Venue Operations

• Manage logistics for public events and private rentals.
• Serve as primary on-site manager for events.
• Coordinate volunteers with Office Manager and Board Members.
• Oversee event setup, breakdown, and vendor coordination.
• Ensure compliance with insurance and safety policies.
• Maintain event procedures and operational checklists
• Manage external vendor relationships to support virtual and in-person events.

1. Community & Partnership Development

• Build partnerships with schools, environmental groups, artists, and nonprofits.
• Support collaborative programming initiatives.
• Represent the museum at select community events.

1. Administrative & Marketing Support

• Draft program descriptions for website and newsletters.
• Prepare bi-monthly program reports for Board review.
• Coordinate event registration systems and track attendance
• Maintain organized program documentation and files.

Qualifications

• Event management experience in a museum, academic or nonprofit setting.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Experience with Microsoft 365, MS Office and must be proficient in MS Word and

MS Excel.

• Experience with event registration platforms and nonprofit software.
• Ability to work events when they occur on evenings and weekends.
• Passion for environmental education and heritage preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to climb a flight of stairs, office is on the second floor.
• Ability to move tables and chairs for event setup.
• Ability to work outdoors during festivals and events.

Performance Metrics

• Increased program attendance and engagement.
• Net positive financial performance from events.
• Positive participant feedback.
• Effective volunteer coordination and support.
• Development of new mission-aligned programs as directed by the Board.

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