Vice President, Collections, Interpretation, and Programs | Fort Worth Museum of Science and History 

 Dedicated to lifelong learning and anchored by our rich collections, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History engages our diverse community through creative, vibrant programs and exhibits interpreting science and the stories of Texas and the Southwest. 

 ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND 

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History (FWMSH) opened as a private, not-for-profit institution in 1941 when a charter to establish a Fort Worth Children’s Museum was filed with the State of Texas.  The purpose of the new museum was listed as “[t]he maintenance of a place where geological, biological and zoological collections may be housed to increase and diffuse knowledge and appreciation of history, art and science….”  Four years later, the Museum opened in two rooms in De Zavala Elementary School.  In 1947, the Museum moved into the larger R.E. Harding House and, because of its increasing popularity, the Museum broke ground for a new facility in 1952.  The following year, the Charlie Mary Noble Planetarium opened. 

In 1968, the name of the Museum was changed to the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.  The Omni Theater was added to the museum in 1983 — the first IMAX dome theater in the Southwest becoming one of the most successful in the world.  Because of the increasing popularity of the Museum, in 2006, the Museum unveiled plans for its new building, which opened in 2009 (160,000 SF). The architect, Ricardo Legorreta, created a vibrant building in tune with its environment.  The Museum’s Board completed a $20+ million capital campaign to open a new OMNI Digital Dome to replace the outdated Omni Theater with an immersive experience providing state-of-the-art visual technology in science and history. Construction/renovation began in April 2023 with the plan for the new OMNI Digital Dome theater to reopen in September 2024.  

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is home to its Museum School, a 75-year-old preschool program which is beloved by the entire community; hands-on, interactive galleries; and indoor and outdoor spaces as well as permanent science exhibitions and changing history exhibitions.  The Museum has over 50 full-time employees and 24 trustees.  The Museum has welcomed numerous visitors, including families, students on school field trips, and summer campers.  FWMSH also hosts a variety of annual special events and cultural celebrations for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Its attendance in 2023 was 250,000. 

In 1971, FWMSH earned Accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), placing it in the elite ranks of museums nationwide.  It is currently going through the reaccreditation process.   

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History supports the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and access and works with the staff to ensure that these principles are demonstrated throughout the Museum. 

Fort Worth Community 

Fort Worth’s is 13th largest city in the nation with a population of nearly 1 million and is one of the fastest growing large cities.  With its neighbor Dallas to the east, the DFW metroplex and Fort Worth are attractive because housing costs are comparatively low, the economy is strong, and the region offers a vibrant cultural scene.   

Fort Worth is a great place for families. There are almost 40 school districts within the DFW Metroplex, ranging in sizes from 1A (less than 105 students) to 6A (2100 or more students). Those who live in Fort Worth tend to be young professionals, while the surrounding suburbs are largely filled with young families who want both a close-knit community and easy access to the cities. People from both demographics are flooding the area, and the population has swelled from about 5.8 million people in 2005 to more than 7 million in 2023.  

The city hosts an array of events throughout the year with music events such as the Fort Worth Opera Festival, Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering and Western Swing Fest, and the Rockin’ the River waterfront stage. Residents and tourists alike can enjoy the Lone Star Film Festival, Food and Wine Festival, and Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival, which the city promoted as “Fort Worth’s largest and most popular annual event.”  

Popular sporting events include the annual Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, held at Amon G. Carter Stadium on the campus of Texas Christian University; the Charles Schwab Challenge professional golf tournament, held at the Colonial Country Club; and Race Week at Texas Motor Speedway. The Bell Fort Worth Alliance Air Show takes place each year at Fort Worth Alliance Airport.  

In keeping with the city’s moniker as “Cowtown,” Fort Worth celebrates National Day of the American Cowboy every July. The city’s longtime and premier cowboy event, the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, opened in the new Dickies Arena in 2020, situated adjacent to the Will Rogers Memorial Center campus in the Fort Worth Cultural District, in 2017.  

The Opportunity 

Provide vision for the development and management of collections, programming of the Omni Dome, planetarium, exhibitions, and public programs.  FWMSH seeks to revive the museum’s program of research and dynamic programming through collaboration with partners in areas such as higher education, the museum field, paleontology and archaeology, science, and history to further its mission and be a leader in the museum field.  

 The Collections 

The Museum's core mission revolves around the acquisition, preservation, exploration, and interpretation of its diverse collections, all of which are instrumental in driving our educational, exhibition, research, and publication endeavors.  Our collections span an array of disciplines, including anthropology, history, archives, library resources, zoology, geology, paleontology, botany, and human anatomy. 

While our primary emphasis rests on specimens and artifacts originating from Texas and the southwestern region of North America, we also maintain a significant array of globally significant items, allowing for valuable context and comparisons with North American materials. 

At the heart of the institution is a collection held indefinitely for public benefit, divided into three distinct areas of focus: Science, History, and Library/Archives. Within these areas, the Permanent Collections house meticulously documented, cataloged objects of artistic, cultural, scientific, or historical value, representing the rich diversity intrinsic to the museum’s mission.  These collections serve as essential resources for educational programming, research, exhibitions, and loans, receiving the highest level of care and protection to ensure their long-term preservation. 

Science Collections Overview 

Our science collections comprise over 150,000 objects, encompassing a diverse range of natural history specimens and a captivating assortment of live animals.  These collections are divided into three main categories – Permanent, Teaching, and Living collections. 

The Permanent Collection represents the disciplines of malacology, entomology, ornithology, herpetology, mammalogy, geology and paleontology and have historically been used for exhibitions and academic research. The paleontology collection is rich in dinosaur remains from North Central Texas, and includes five species, of which two are type specimens. 

The Teaching Collection is designed for hands-on engagement, featuring objects intended for interpretation, participatory exhibitions, and educational programs. Housed separately from the Permanent Collection, it also includes replicas and materials for in-house and outreach programs.  

Lastly, our Living Collection adds a dynamic dimension, featuring a diverse array of live animals, both exotic and domestic, serving as an educational asset across various programs and events, from the Museum School to Family Museum Nights and beyond. 

History Collections Overview 

The museum’s history collection consists of over 40,000 objects reflecting various indigenous peoples present across North and Central America, but also representative of prehistoric cultures; textiles; weaponry; furnishings; tools; and industry. The majority of the collection dates between the mid-1800s to early 1900s and is centered on Texas and the greater Southwest region of the United States. However, there are smaller collections representing African and Asian cultures, but also ancient Mediterranean.  

Our library features several topics on both local and Texas history, natural sciences, and other formal science disciplines. The archive reflects not only our institutional history, but also collections in photography, rare books, ephemera and memorabilia, maps, and correspondences.  

The permanent collection, archive, and library are all housed off-site in the museum’s warehouse; however, there are history-related objects that also make up part of the teaching collection and are housed on the main campus. Like the science collection, history is utilized in both in-house exhibitions, but has also complemented traveling exhibitions. The history collection continues to support the Education Department’s ongoing school and public programs.  

Interpretation 

Interpretation encompasses museum exhibitions as well as interpretation of exterior spaces and grounds belonging to the museum. The museum building has a number of exhibition galleries.  Long-term hands-on exhibits are housed in the Innovation Studios and the Children’s Museum sections of the museum building. Long-term gallery exhibitions are housed in the museum atrium, DinoLabs + DinoDig®, Energy Blast gallery, Noble Planetarium Gallery, and Plains Culture Gallery.  

The Cattle Raisers Museum is located on the second floor of the FWMSH. Admission is included with entry to the FWMSH. The museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the vital history and science of the cattle industry. The experience tells the story of the cattle industry from its origins among the West’s early Spanish settlers, through the heyday of the legendary drovers, all the way to today’s modern range technology. The exhibits show the important role Texas and Southwestern cattle raisers play in protecting natural resources as frontline stewards of land, livestock and wildlife. 

Programs 

The VP will be responsible for planning and implementing programming for members of the public utilizing museum spaces, including the Noble Planetarium and the newly renovated Omni theater.  With this renovation, a new generation of Omni-goers can view transformational content in a completely digital LED dome with 8K resolution. The Omni Theater, powered by Cosm Technology, will be the world’s first LED digital dome of its size in a museum, positioning the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History as a world leader in the application of state-of-the-art visual technology. Using Cosm’s technology, the Jane & John Justin Foundation Omni Theater can produce completely immersive multi-video presentations, corporate events, product launches, experiential fundraisers, and more for a best-in-class viewing experience that stimulates audience engagement.  The Noble has Planetarium 80 seats and can host live shows, documentaries, and light shows.  School field trips are primary users of the Omni and planetarium theaters.    

Development staff will coordinate with the VP to arrange rental of the theaters for private use, such as corporate events.  

Primary Responsibilities 

FWMSH seeks a dynamic and visionary individual to serve as the Vice President of Collections, Programs, and Interpretation.  As a key member of our senior leadership team, the VP will be responsible for guiding the strategic direction, planning, and execution of all aspects related to the museum’s collections, exhibitions, public programs, and planetarium and OMNI Theater experiences.   The VP’s role will be pivotal in enhancing the museum’s impact on its visitors, fostering engagement, and ensuring the institution’s continued growth and success.  

Leadership and Team Management:  

• Lead and mentor a diverse team, including curatorial, public program, exhibition, and theater staff.  Position has five direct reports (Director of History Collection, Director of Science Collection, Manager of Planetarium, Manager of Omni Theater, Manager of Public Programs)
• Serve as liaison to the Cattle Raisers Museum; a partner of the FWMSH
• Foster a collaborative work environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and professional growth 
• Align team efforts with the museum’s overarching goals and ensure effective cross-functional communication  
• Act in accordance with professional ethics
• Empower others to self-organize
• Foster a sense of connection, belonging and safety
• Encourage innovation and support organizational learning 
• Nurture staff growth and development
• Attend Board Committee and full Board meetings

Budgeting and Financial Oversight:  

• Oversee program budgets
• Monitor expenditures, allocate resources efficiently, and identify opportunities for cost optimization

Collections Management:  

• Lead the development and execution of strategies for the curation, conservation, and expansion of the museum’s science and history collections 
• Ensure adherence to industry standards for collections documentation, storage, and preservation 
• Collaborate with collections teams to drive acquisitions, loans, and deaccessions 

Public Programs:  

• Oversee the diverse range of public programs that enrich visitor experiences, resonate with diverse audiences, and align with the museum’s mission 
• Collaborate with the education department to design meaningful and engaging programs for various age groups and interests 
• Oversee the assessment of program effectiveness and implement improvements based on feedback and data 
• Create a welcoming and inclusive environment for new audiences to engage with exhibitions and collections to foster engagement, affiliation and long-term support of the museum 

Exhibition Strategy and Public Programs 

• Evaluate existing exhibitions and advise President on proposed strategies for long-term exhibition planning 
• Lead annual and multi-year planning and implement innovative exhibition and programs that that align with the museum’s mission and resonate with diverse audiences 
• Conceptualize, plan, and oversee the creation of innovative and engaging exhibitions; Manage exhibition budgets, schedules, and resources while maintaining high-quality standards 
• Foster collaborations with internal teams and external partners to bring exhibitions and related programs to life 

OMNI Theater and Planetarium Management:  

• Provide strategic direction for the OMNI Theater’s programming, technology, and audience engagement initiatives 
• Collaborate with internal and external content experts to curate captivating OMNI Theater shows and live presentations 
• Stay current with advancements in immersive theater technology and science communication to enhance offerings 
• Annual Omni, planetarium, and mobile planetarium business plan 

Development and Marketing 

• Coordinate with Development staff in the development and solicitation of grants and sponsorships to support the museum’s collections, exhibitions, conservation, and program priorities 
• Coordinate with Marketing and Communications staff to develop communications related to exhibitions, collections, and other content strategies 

Candidate Profile 

The candidate should possess:  

• Advanced degree in museum studies, science, history, anthropology, or a related field 
• Seven years of progressive experience in museum leadership/management, including collections management, programming, exhibitions, and theater operations, or combination thereof 
• Administrative, fiscal, and staff management skills, with a demonstrable record of developing and managing budgets, staff, and complex museum projects  
• Strong grasp of strategies for audience engagement, visitor experience enhancement, and educational impact  
• Advanced knowledge and understanding of museum ethics and principles of curation, collections management, research, programming, exhibition development, and theater experiences 
• Excellent communication skills. Must be articulate, with excellent presentation and writing skills, and effective communication, organizational, and time-management skills 
• The ability to work as a member of a team-based environment with strong collaborative skills 
• A willingness to build positive and effective relationships with museum colleagues, donors, and the broader Fort Worth community 
• Substantial experience in directing, coaching, and motivating direct reports 
• A passion for history, science, culture, and education, with a commitment to advancing the museum’s mission 

To apply for this position, please fill out the online form here.

Job Summary:

The Outreach Educator's role is to support the implementation of Education programs both onsite at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and at various sites throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Current Outreach Education programs include, but are not limited to, the Discover Lab on Wheels Outreach Program and special events. Duties will include learning program content, organizing program materials, delivering instruction both in-person and virtually, and being an ambassador of the Museum. This person must have excellent organizational skills, strong interpersonal skills, superior communication skills, able to work well with children and adults, deliver programs in informal education setting, and be an effective problem solver. This person must work well in a team atmosphere. 

Basic Function and Responsibilities including but not limited to:

• Deliver programs to varied audiences in a variety of settings
• Facilitate participant learning during programs
• Set up, clean up and organize materials and resources needed for programming
• Inventory materials and report replenishment needs
• Check in with sites and contact person upon arrival at program location
• Drive to various programming locations in the Dallas/Fort Worth area
• Load and unload materials at Museum and offsite locations
• Complete post program reports

Salary Range: $17-18 an hour

To apply for this position, please fill out the online form here.

STEAM Facilitator

Part-Time Employment

Job Summary:

To support implementation of the Family STEAM Festival program (Tuesdays and Thursdays) on scheduled evenings and special requests throughout the year. This person must be reliable and punctual. Must also have excellent interpersonal skills, and work well with adults and children. Programs are scheduled on selected Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00-8:00PM with set up before and teardown after (5-10 hours weekly).

Basic Function and Responsibilities including but not limited to:

• Loading and unloading of materials at schools and Museum.
• Check in with the school office upon arrival.
• Set up components at the school site and Museum.
• Facilitate student learning during the program.
• Interact with classroom teachers, parents and children.
• Communicate educational connections pertinent to program.
• Communicate museum resources with teachers, parents, and administrators

Qualifications:

• The ability to proactively multi-task.
• The ability to exercise active listening skills and positive body language through smiling, sustaining eye contact and good posture.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
• The ability to stand for extended periods of time.
• The ability to carry up to 25 pounds.

Salary Range: $16-18 an hour

To apply for this position, please fill out the online form here.

Part-Time Employment

Under the supervision of the Innovations Studio Manager, the Studio Interpreter's main responsibilities include guest experience enhancement and educational activity facilitation of the Innovation Gallery and Studios through engagement around exhibits, hands-on activities, live science and technology demonstrations and public programs.

Basic Function and Responsibilities including but not limited to:

• Learn exhibit content and activities that are based in STEM/STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art/Design, and Math) and share them in exciting and creative ways with diverse audiences
• Proactively seek out guests and initiate conversations to provide exceptional guest experiences
• Perform core operational functions of exhibits and museum including wayfinding and opening and closing procedures
• Participate in team meetings and trainings/professional development 
• Partner with volunteers and educators to enhance exhibit experiences
• Track and record guests' frequently asked questions
• Anticipate guest issues and needs and proactively solve 
• Support full-time staff with safety and emergency procedures
• Manager studio supplies and appearance 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in education or related field strongly preferred
• Teaching experience in informal education setting preferred
• Ability to simultaneously engage children and adults in an energetic, friendly, professional manner
• Comfortable learning a wide variety of content both in the workspace and independently including but not limited to science, history, technology, engineering, art and design
• Ability to react positively to a rapidly changing environment
• Must be comfortable and competent working with and teaching diverse groups of all sizes, including varying ages, background, knowledge levels, learning styles, and special needs
• Theatrical, outgoing, or other performance experiences a plus
• Fluency in multiple languages a plus
• Proven ability to respond and make good decisions under pressure 
• Ability to work in varied shift, including evenings, weekends and holidays
• Ability to be active for extended periods of time, as well as frequent bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and lifting. Candidates must also possess the ability to lift up to 20lbs.

Salary Range: $15-18 an hour

To apply for this position, please fill out the online form here.

Museum School Teacher 

Museum School Mission Statement The purpose of Museum School is to offer children a unique opportunity for learning in a creative, informal environment, using age-appropriate interpretation and hands-on interaction and opportunities. 

Museum School Philosophy Museum School’s discovery approach enhances a child’s awareness of the world. The curriculum combines natural and physical sciences, history, and anthropology with art, music, and literature. 

Museum School Goals Children will: have first-hand experiences; develop an appreciation for the natural world; begin to construct their own knowledge; gain skills in listening and language acquisition; and creatively express themselves through music, art, and drama. 

The Education Department is seeking qualified, enthusiastic Museum School Teachers for its Preschool program. Museum School Teachers are responsible for the implementation of  age-appropriate activities that support specific class subjects in a way that reflects the mission statement, philosophy and goals of the Fort Worth Museum Preschool. The ideal candidate has a passion for providing extraordinary learning experiences for children.  

Museum School Preschool teaching schedules vary. The Museum Preschool operates Tuesday through Friday from 8:15am until 4:30pm, August through May. The position of Museum School Teacher falls under the direction and supervision of the Museum Preschool Director. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor or Master Degree in Early Childhood, Early Childhood Special Education, Child Development, or Elementary Education
• Certified EC-4 Generalist or EC-6 Generalist preferred 
• Minimum of 2 years (EC-3) teaching experience required
• ESL certification preferred 

Characteristics, Abilities and Responsibilities of a Museum School Teacher 

Characteristics 

• Friendly, out-going personality with a high energy level. 
• Respect for all children and their learning abilities or differences. 
• Exhibit competency, good judgment, and emotional control in the presence of children. 
• Demonstrate professional, ethical, honest and responsible behavior. 
• Enjoy working with young children and relate to children with courtesy, respect, acceptance and patience. 
• Exhibit a growth mindset and the desire for life-long learning. 

Abilities 

• Exhibit effective verbal and written communication skills. 
• Exhibit knowledge and skills relevant to the specific ages and stages of the children in assigned classroom. 
• Plan, prepare, organize and execute age-appropriate curriculum, activities and projects competently with a team of teachers. 
• Collaborate, teach and work effectively with a co-lead teacher in the classroom. 
• Treat each child and their family with respect and dignity, while recognizing and respecting the uniqueness of all children, their families, and their cultures. 
• Ability and willingness to initiate, collaborate, and assist with tasks, including preparing the classroom for the next topic each week, assisting with supply ordering, parent communication and other classroom management tasks, as required. 
• Support children in their learning and development with attention to the special needs of each individual child. 

Responsibilities 

• Articulate the Museum School’s mission to the community. 
• Foster developmentally-appropriate independence in children through planned, flexible activities while maintaining a cooperative atmosphere. 
• Develop knowledge and understanding of the Museum School curriculum topics in order to effectively teach lessons and activities to young learners. 
• Maintain a safe, attractive, organized environment. 
• Implement classroom guidance and discipline strategies that reflect the Fort Worth Museum Preschool values. 
• Participate in professional development opportunities to improve skills. 
• Attend and participate in staff meetings. 
• Teach in the Museum School Summer program. 
• Comply with the requirements of the Texas Health and Human Services Child Care Minimum Standards. 
• Implement procedures and protocols related to the health and safety of all students and employees to ensure their safety including, but not limited to, COVID-19 related health policies and procedures.
• Maintain CPR, First Aid, and Tarrant County Child Care certification. 

Museum School employees are carefully selected for their experience, training, maturity, work ethic, and personality. Timely organization, preparation, and effective classroom management skills are required. 

To apply for this position, please fill out the online form here.

Education Facilitator

The Education Department is seeking a qualified, enthusiastic facilitator for the 2023-2024 fall/spring school-year.  This program will work with the possible ages of three through seven year old children throughout the school year.  The Education Department’s inquiry-based discovery approach offers children a unique opportunity for learning in a creative, informal environment, using age-appropriate interpretation and hands-on interaction and opportunities.  The interdisciplinary curriculum combines science and history with creative activities.  The ideal facilitator is passionate about instilling a respect and appreciation for nature in children.  This position is within the Museum’s Education Department and reports to the Executive Director of Education.

Qualifications:

• Early Childhood Experience
• Bilingual is a plus
• Excellent people skills, maintaining a professional attitude toward all staff, parents and children
• Respect for all children and their learning abilities and difference
• Good organizational skills
• Reliable and flexible

Basic Functions and Responsibilities (including but not limited to):

• Participating in planning and preparing projects
• Implementing effective classroom management
• Facilitation of lessons and activities
• Participation in the planning of developmentally appropriate activities
• Classroom discipline
• Communication with parents, school staff and museum staff

To apply for this position, please fill out the online form here.

Education Facilitator

The Education Department is seeking a qualified, enthusiastic facilitator for the 2023-2024 fall/spring school year.  This program will work with the possible ages of Kindergarten through 5th-grade children on Fridays from September 2023 through March 2024.  The Education Department’s inquiry-based discovery approach offers children a unique opportunity for learning in a creative, informal environment, using age-appropriate interpretation and hands-on interaction and opportunities.  The interdisciplinary curriculum combines science and history with creative activities.  The ideal facilitator is passionate about instilling a respect and appreciation for nature in children.  This position is within the Museum’s Education Department and reports to the Executive Director of Education.

Qualifications:

• Early Childhood Experience
• Bilingual is a plus
• Excellent people skills, maintaining a professional attitude toward all staff, parents and children
• Respect for all children and their learning abilities and difference
• Good organizational skills
• Reliable and flexible

Basic Functions and Responsibilities (including but not limited to):

• Participating in planning and preparing projects
• Implementing effective classroom management
• Facilitation of lessons and activities
• Participation in the planning of developmentally appropriate activities
• Classroom discipline
• Communication with parents, school staff and museum staff

To apply for this position, please fill out the online form here.