The Grinnell Historical Museum began in 1966 and for fifty-nine years has been operated by
local volunteers in a Victorian home called the McMurray House. The need for more space
prompted the renovation of a former furniture store into a new modern museum which will open
in June 2025. The new museum will require a professional director to provide successful
management in preserving Grinnell history. This is a new position for the new museum.
Position Overview:
The Museum Director will oversee the general operations and administration of the Museum.
The Director will collaborate closely with the Board of Directors to facilitate the museum’s
objective to tell the stories of Grinnell. This position requires strong organizational and
communication skills as well as the ability to work both independently and as a team member.
Qualifications: A four-year college degree OR an equivalent combination of experience
providing the necessary knowledge and skills in tourism, museum, history, management or
related fields.
Qualifications that would be a plus: Previous management or museum experience; a passion
for history, familiarity with museum software and a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
or Google Workplace; and experience in writing grants.
Responsibilities:
* Volunteers: Recruit, train and manage volunteers.
* Staff: Coordinate with the Board to hire, train and manage staff.
* Fundraising & Marketing: Work with the Board on all aspects of fundraising and marketing.
* Public Engagement: Represent the museum in greeting and assisting the public as well as
cultivating relationships with professional organizations, museums, nonprofits, and other
groups to promote the museum in effective collaboration. Maintain excellent connections with
the broader community through social media, website updates, and newsletters.
* Operations: Manage the daily operations of the museum, working with the Board in museum
programming, exhibits, and collections management and helping to ensure the museum
adheres to industry best practices.
* Connections to Board of Directors: Attend and provide a Director’s report at monthly Board
meetings.
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant supporting materials, along with
contact information for two professional references to:
Grinnell Historical Museum
P. O. Box 254
Grinnell, Iowa. 50112
Or by email to: grinnellhistoricalmuseum@gmail.com