Position Summary

The Director of Education & Interpretation provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for Old Salem’s interpretive and educational programming. As the chief architect of the visitor experience across the living history programs of historic trades, domestic skills, storytelling, and student learning, the Director ensures that all programs are historically grounded, inclusive, and aligned with institutional priorities. This role oversees a multi-disciplinary team, manages the department’s operational and staffing infrastructure, and serves as the primary liaison between the Education department and organizational leadership.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Leadership

• ·         Develop and execute long-range departmental goals in alignment with Old Salem’s strategic plan, focusing on sustainability, audience growth, and community relevance.
• ·         Serve as a member of the institution’s senior leadership team, advising the President and Board of Trustees on matters related to public engagement, interpretive direction, and staff capacity.
• ·         Lead strategic planning processes for program expansion, cross-departmental collaboration, and resource development.

Departmental Oversight

• ·         Supervise Education Coordinators and oversee all interpretive programming across trades, domestic skills, storytelling, and school-based learning.
• ·         Manage scheduling, staffing models, SOP development, and infrastructure across multiple historic sites within the Old Salem district.
• ·         Ensure interpretive content is historically accurate, research-based, and responsive to contemporary educational standards and community needs.
• ·         Substitute for absent costumed interpreters on occasion and participate in programs.

Program & Event Development

• ·         Guide the creation, delivery, and evaluation of core programming and signature events such as Science Alive, Christmas Tours, Hands-On-History, and Halloween Evenings.
• ·         Collaborate with the Development team to align programs with fundraising goals, sponsorship opportunities, and grant funding strategies.
• ·         Oversee the expansion of family- and school-based programming, including pilot initiatives and seasonal activations.

Staffing, Training, & Professional Development

• ·         Lead hiring and onboarding for new staff and volunteers; design pathways for staff development and succession planning.
• ·         Coordinate internal and external training opportunities, including partnerships with ALHFAM, seminar programs, and field-specific professional development.
• ·         Establish a supportive, equity-focused departmental culture grounded in collaboration, mentorship, and growth.

Volunteer Program Leadership

• ·         Oversee the strategic growth and formalization of the volunteer program, with goals to scale engagement and deepen community connection.
• ·         Implement volunteer training, onboarding, recognition events, and evaluation practices in coordination with program managers.

Cross-Departmental & External Relations

• ·         Serve as the Education department’s liaison to Marketing, Development, Visitor Services, MESDA, Horticulture, and Preservation teams.
• ·         Represent Old Salem at conferences, community events, and in public communications, advocating for the role of place-based, inclusive historical education.
• ·         Contribute to strategic grants, donor reports, and institutional publications.

Qualifications:

• ·         Bachelor’s degree in Education, History, Museum Studies, Public History, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• ·         Minimum 3–5 years of progressive leadership experience in museums, public history, or educational interpretation
• ·         Proven success in staff supervision, program management, and institutional planning
• ·         Strong written and verbal communication skills, including public presentation and grant writing
• ·         Demonstrated ability to lead inclusive interpretation on complex topics (e.g., race, religion, gender, enslavement)
• ·         Experience managing budgets, multi-site operations, and cross-functional collaboration
• ·         Commitment to accessibility, equity, and continuous learning in museum education

Physical & Work Requirements:

• ·         Ability to work in historic and outdoor environments year-round
• ·         Capacity to lift up to 20 lbs, climb stairs, and occasionally work near open fire
• ·         Availability for occasional evenings, weekends, and special events

Apply: Employment - Old Salem Museums & Gardens