Public Programs & Outreach Manager

Position Summary

The Public Programs and Outreach Manager leads the planning, development, and execution of dynamic public programs and outreach initiatives that advance the Maryland Center for History and Culture’s mission to educate people of all ages about Maryland’s rich history, art, and culture. This role oversees a wide range of onsite, offsite, and virtual programs for adults, families, and children (ages 5–11), interprets permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, and builds meaningful community partnerships across the state. 

Working collaboratively across departments, the Manager ensures programs are accessible, innovative, and aligned with institutional priorities, while managing logistics, communications, budgets, evaluation, and staff support. This position reports to the Director of Learning and Interpretation in the Education and Engagement Division. 

A major focus of this role will be involvement in two keystone projects related to the celebrating America 250, the U.S. Semiquincentennial. The WayFinder Wing will launch in March of 2026. This project includes a permanent exhibition designed for children ages 5–11 and families, using hands-on, sensory-based interpretation to connect visitors with Maryland history through the stories of diverse historical WayFinders. The WayFinder Wing will include an integrated slate of public programs, hands-on workshops, and family learning initiatives that use sensory-based interpretation to connect children ages 5–11 and their families. Opens end of March 2026.

Step Into History is an outreach initiative that will be led by the Manager. The oversized, framed historical images are installed at key locations throughout Maryland and provide opportunities for participants to gain new perspectives, strengthen communities, explore identities, and broaden our understanding of the place using relevant images from MCHC’s collection

Key Responsibilities

Public Programs

• Conceptualize, plan, and implement a broad and engaging slate of public programs related to MCHC’s exhibitions, collections, and strategic initiatives, including lectures, workshops, family programs, festivals, scouting programs, and exhibition openings (in-person and virtual).
• Collaborate with the Director of Learning & Interpretation and cross-departmental teams to develop annual and seasonal calendars of innovative programs that complement the exhibition schedule and attract new and returning audiences.
• Organize and manage all program logistics, including scheduling, registration, space and technology needs, staffing coordination, supplies, catering, and event setup and breakdown.
• Create, maintain, and distribute internal project calendars and a public-facing calendar of events; collaborate on the design, production, and printing of seasonal program calendars.
• Manage the editing, accessibility, and delivery of virtual public programs to ensure a high-quality audience experience.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of program budgets and attendance, including honoraria, travel expenses, food and beverage costs, and staff meal costs.
• Implement data collection, evaluation, and reporting practices to assess program effectiveness and inform strategic planning.

Outreach & Partnerships

• Lead and expand public-facing outreach initiatives and events, including Step Into History and other community-based programs.
• Cultivate and sustain long-term relationships with civic, cultural, educational, and community partners throughout Maryland.
• Identify, develop, and manage new partnerships that broaden access, deepen engagement, and align with MCHC’s mission and strategic priorities.

Communications & Audience Development

• Serve as the primary point person for public programs content on the MCHC website and other digital platforms.
• Partner with the Director Strategic Communications & Initiatives and Content & Communications Manager to develop and implement targeted communications, prospect development strategies, and promotional campaigns using Salesforce/Pardot and social media.
• Ensure accurate, accessible, and timely program information is shared through the website, community calendar listings, media outlets, and social platforms.

Supervision & Administration

• Supervise, train, and support volunteers and interns involved in public programming.
• Coordinate with Visitor Experience and cross-departmental staff to ensure appropriate staffing, signage, registration, parking, and guest services for events.
• Manage program supplies, including inventory control and ordering food, materials, and equipment for programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required
• 2–4 years of experience in public programming, museum education, event planning, project management, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience interpreting or teaching from works of art, historical materials, or cultural collections for public audiences, particularly families and children ages 5-11 years old. 
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Ability and willingness to work evenings and weekends as required for public programs.
• Experience with website content management systems and social media platforms.
• Awareness of and sensitivity to the public role museums play in communities, with a passion for engaging diverse audiences in history and culture.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Creative and strategic thinker who generates program ideas collaboratively.
• Strong customer service orientation and public-facing professionalism.
• Ability to self-manage while working effectively with staff at all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and comfort managing last-minute changes.
• Proficiency with standard office software (Microsoft Outlook, Word, Google Workspace, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Familiarity with Salesforce is preferred.

About the Position:

This is a full-time, exempt, salaried position with full benefits package, including medical, dental, 403(b) retirement plan, and a health savings account. Full-time employees of MCHC are part of a generous paid leave policy that offers up to 20 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually in addition to the recognition of 11 federal holidays. Free onsite parking is available for staff.

The salary range is $48,000-53,000, commensurate with experience. Evening and weekend availability required for public programs and outreach events. Eligible for 1-2 days of telework after an introductory period.

How to Apply: 

Please email a cover letter, resume, and contacts of three professional references to jobs@mdhistory.org, using the subject line: “Public Programs and Outreach Manager.” Incomplete applications may not be considered. No phone calls, please. 

About MCHC

The Maryland Center for History and Culture is an equal opportunity employer that seeks to educate people of all ages about the American experience through the rich history of Maryland using their collections and to preserve important objects and archival materials from prehistoric Maryland to the present day. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other status protected by law and strongly encourage all qualified professionals to apply. 

The Maryland Center for History and Culture collects, preserves, and interprets the history, art, and culture of Maryland. By exploring multiple perspectives and sharing national stories through the lens of Maryland, MCHC inspires critical thinking, creativity, and community. Learn more at mdhistory.org.