Exhibits Coordinator
- Brookings, SD
- $50,310-60,350 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
Institution South Dakota State University
Working Title Exhibits Coordinator
Posting Number NFE02833P
Department SDSU-Agricultural Heritage Museum
Physical Location of Position (City) Brookings
Posting TextSouth Dakota State University (SDSU) is seeking an Exhibits Coordinator to join the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum. This role plays a key part in sharing the stories of South Dakota's agricultural past, present, and future by developing and implementing engaging exhibitions. The Exhibits Coordinator ensures that exhibitions meet professional standards while offering meaningful experiences for museum visitors and the broader community. This position is located in and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.The inspires passion for the history, culture, and science of agriculture in the state. As the leader in preserving South Dakota's agricultural heritage, the museum connects a variety of audiences to the ongoing importance of agriculture in daily life. With 10,000 square feet of exhibition space and an average of 10,000 annual visitors, the museum is a vital part of South Dakota State University's land-grant mission in Brookings, SD.Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead the development and implementation of exhibitions that align with the Museum's mission and meet professional standards of the American Alliance of Museums.
- Oversee the planning process, including exhibition schedules, budgets, and coordination with staff, volunteers, and contractors.
- Collaborate with colleagues to shape exhibition storylines, select artifacts, and design engaging interpretation and experiences for a variety of audiences.
- Secure and manage traveling exhibits through partnerships with other institutions and organizations.
- Supervise and mentor student staff and volunteers involved in exhibition development, installation, and dismantling.
- Ensure exhibits are accessible, well-maintained, and preserve the integrity of collections on display.
- Support innovative approaches to exhibit design, including in-house, traveling, and online formats.
- Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Interior Design, Theater, Museum Studies, or a related field completed by date of hire.
- Minimum of three years of related experience in creating interpretation in a physical and digital space.
- Demonstrated organizational and project management skills (i.e., setting an exhibition schedule, managing a budget, and delegating tasks).
- Ability to manage multiple projects at one time.
- Demonstrated use of creative and technical ability showcased in a portfolio.
- Demonstrated proficient fabrication and drafting skills using wood, metal, and plastic, basic electrical and mechanical skills. Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing carpentry and construction tools.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Proficient with graphic design software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Valid driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
- Master's degree in art, museum studies or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience with video editing, desktop publishing, animation and drafting software.
- Demonstrated experience with successful supervisory experience with volunteer and student management.
- Demonstrated knowledge and interest in agriculture.
Posting Date 08/28/2025
Closing Date 09/15/2025
Open Until Filled No
First Consideration Date
Advertised Salary The salary range for the Exhibits Coordinator $50,310-$60,350.
Duration of the Term 12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent 100
Work HoursMonday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm with occasional nights and weekends depending on the events happening at the museum.
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type Regular
Faculty Status No
Scope of Search External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires Valid Drivers License
If other, please indicate
Department Description and Cultural Expectationsis the state's largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.Equal Employment Opportunity StatementSouth Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant access mission. SDSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing . Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.
Contact InformationFor questions on the position, contact Gwen McCausland at Gwen.McCausland@sdstate.edu.