PUBLIC PROGRAMS & EDUCATION MANAGER

PUBLIC PROGRAMS & EDUCATION MANAGER – MEDORA, ND

EXEMPT/FULL-TIME

ABOUT THE THEODORE ROOSEVELT PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY FOUNDATION

“Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.” -Theodore Roosevelt

Since 2014, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation (TRPLF) has been planning and building a new, ambitious kind of presidential library and museum. Other presidential libraries tell the story of a single individual, but the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL) – being built more than a century after T.R.’s death – will do more than preserve history. The TRPL will be a people’s library, bringing Roosevelt’s values and relentless spirit to life at a critical time in our nation and world, while simultaneously championing the stories of all who “dare greatly, think boldly, care deeply, and live passionately.”

The library is currently being constructed in Medora, North Dakota, with a milestone planned for July 4, 2026 – America’s 250th anniversary. Participants at the TRPL will learn from – not just about – Roosevelt’s story, being transformed into the same stunning Badlands that served as the fulcrum in T.R.’s incredible life story.

Guided by the pillar principles of leadership, citizenship, and conservation, the Foundation has partnered with innovative partners – like the award-winning architecture firm, Snøhetta, and the best-in-class story crafters, the Future of Storytelling – to build an institution like no other. With plans to be the most sustainable presidential library and campus ever, a revolutionary approach to interpretive design, and programming that will spread the library’s message into neighboring Theodore Roosevelt National Park and beyond across the globe, the opportunity to join a talented team in building and opening this institution is truly unique.

JOB POSTING – PUBLIC PROGRAMS & EDUCATION MANAGER – MEDORA, ND - ONSITE

The Public Programs & Education Manager will design, implement, and manage innovative public programs and educational initiatives that bring Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy to life for contemporary audiences. This role bridges museum education, civic engagement, and digital storytelling to support TRPL’s mission, focusing on leadership, conservation, and citizenship. It requires a collaborative spirit, strong program design skills, and experience working across diverse participants.

This individual will serve as a key institutional leader, responsible for setting the vision and strategy for public programming and education at TRPL. They will oversee a team of coordinators, providing direction, mentorship, and support to ensure high-quality execution of all engagement activities.

The successful candidate will bring fresh ideas and proven execution to a library that is redefining what a presidential institution can be. This position will report to the Director of Operations and sit on the senior leadership team.

CORE KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES:

§ Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in museum education, public programs, or civic engagement.

§ Demonstrated success in building relationships, leading teams, and developing impactful programs across multiple formats (in-person, online, hybrid).

§ Strong interpersonal, communication, and emotional intelligence skills, with the ability to inspire trust, navigate complex stakeholder relationships, and foster a collaborative team culture.

§ Proficiency in project management, public speaking, and budget oversight.

§ Proven ability to work across departments and with external partners to co-create engaging and inclusive experiences.

§ Familiarity with audience evaluation tools and educational technology platforms.

§ Enthusiasm for working in a start-up environment where flexibility, initiative, and leadership are valued.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

§ Develop and manage a robust calendar of public events including multimedia lectures, panel discussions, author talks, and outdoor programs tied to Roosevelt’s legacy in leadership, conservation, and citizenship.

§ Design and lead education programs that honor the life, legacy, and enduring relevance of our 26th president and inspire leadership, conservation, and citizenship.

§ Develop interpretive tours, presentations, and digital content designed to engage a wide range of audiences, including students, families, lifelong learners, and community members.

§ Coordinate with educators to align programs with educational standards and classroom needs.

§ Create and manage an internship program for college students focused on museum education, history, and digital storytelling. Support other departments to build internship opportunities in areas such as culinary, technology, and hospitality.

§ Attract, lead, develop and support staff coordinator to help execute programming at the highest level.

§ Mentor youth in historical research, media production, and civic engagement through hands-on learning projects.

§ Build and maintain partnerships with a broad array of organizations—including community groups, Native nations, veterans’ organizations, educational institutions, cultural partners, and public agencies—to ensure programming reflects a wide range of perspectives and experiences.

§ Track attendance, gather feedback, and analyze engagement data to assess the effectiveness of public programs.

§ Performs other duties as required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

§ Bachelor’s degree in History, Museum Education, Public History, Communications, Education, or a related field is required; advanced degree is a plus.

§ Five (5) years of relevant experience in developing public programs or education initiatives in a museum, educational, or historical setting.

§ Knowledge of U.S. presidential history, especially Theodore Roosevelt’s era, policies, and personal story, strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

§ Must be able to perform repetitive tasks such as typing or using a mouse.

§ Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

§ May require on-site support with occasional evening or weekend hours for events and special projects.

§ Must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of Medora, ND (defined as within 60 miles or approximately a one-hour drive).

BENEFITS

Full benefits include 403(b), medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, as well as 20 days of paid time off and 10 days of holidays. Salary ranges between $85,000 to $110,000, commensurate with experience.

EEO STATEMENT

TRPLF is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. TRPL does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other reason prohibited by law as a provision of employment opportunities and benefits.