Job Description Job Description

SUMMARY

Exhibit developers are the primary staff responsible for exhibit creation, from idea generation and concept development through design and fabrication. Although exhibit ideas may come from many sources and fabrication may be accomplished in coordination with other staff, exhibit developers drive the process of transforming exhibit ideas into interactive, physical form. Exhibit development at the Exploratorium emphasizes iterative prototyping and incorporates input from outside advisors, public visitors, and project team members including project directors, other exhibit developers, graphic designers, writers, scientists, and evaluators. Exhibit developers are also expected to collaborate on other types of experiences for visitors, including demonstrations and programs, to contribute to overall project and exhibition development, and to participate in developing proposals for new exhibits and exhibit areas.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Execution: consistently deliver high-quality exhibit experiences across a number of projects under the direction of project leadership; pursue best practices in all areas of exhibit creation. Scope work within time and budget parameters. Meet project milestone and final deadlines.
Idea generation: reliably produce a wide variety of compelling and engaging exhibit ideas.
Iteration: observe visitors and work with evaluators to iterate prototypes based on feedback.
Documentation: document exhibits and demos according to standards set by the shop and project leadership.
Facilities Work/Institutional Support: contribute to general museum operations, including shop and/or lab maintenance, exhibit maintenance, material ordering and stocking, and equipment upkeep.
Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

BA/BS degree or equivalent combination of education and experience, preferably in art or science; a background teaching and/or researching in astronomy and space science is preferred.
Basic experience in wood, metal, and plastic fabrication; CAD drafting and hand sketching; prototyping and fabrication of exhibits, or the desire and ability to learn as needed.
Experience applying user research or feedback in an iterative development process preferred.
Experience exhibiting work in a public setting preferred.
Comfort in taking direction and mentoring from senior shop staff, senior exhibit developers, graphics and editorial, and visitor research and evaluation.
Strong interest in exhibit design and inquiry-based learning.
Some experience in interpreting scientific content.
Ability to collaborate as part of an effective team.
Open-minded, able to fail and try again, observant and deeply curious.
Familiarity with the Exploratorium exhibit collection is a plus.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds short distances. Able to move from place to place; bend, stretch, grasp, reach, kneel and twist.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position is based in San Francisco, California with staff expected to work onsite a certain number of days per week based on department requirements

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds short distances. Able to move from place to place; bend, stretch, grasp, reach, kneel and twist.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

This position is open until filled

HOW TO APPLY

This is a regular, full-time (37.5 hours per week), non-exempt, union position that includes benefits. The starting range for this role is $42.65 to $45.15. This range represents steps 1-3 on a 6 step union pay scale. Please, no phone calls in regards to this job. Please include a cover letter with your application. Applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered for review. To apply, please visit the Exploratorium job page.

The Exploratorium is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, inclusion and respect. We welcome and strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

EXPLORATORIUM

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