Associate Director of Exhibits

Organization Background

Maritime Aquarium’s mission is to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people and inspire action to protect our blue planet. For 38 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium hosts nearly 450,000 guests annually. Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes and estuaries to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals.  

Altogether, the Aquarium is home to more than 8,000 animals and 285 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce nearly 50,000 students, campers and scouts to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community. The strength of the Aquarium is its  approximately 97 full-time and 78 part-time employees,  seasonal staff, and our volunteers.  

Position Overview

Reporting to the Creative Director , the Associate Director of Exhibits (ADE) is responsible for the design and execution of permanent and temporary exhibits, and the maintenance and management of collections to create engaging and meaningful experiences that inspire guests and support the Aquarium’s mission . This position will work throughout the organization, coordinating closely with the operations and animal husbandry teams, while residing within the Brand Experience function in order to deliver on the organization’s objectives and goals. The ADE is responsible for content research, proposing exhibit narratives, interactives, architectural or 3 dimensional features, and structures messages to resonate with guests.

Compensation

This is a full-time, exempt position offering a salary range of $85k - $100k per year. 

Schedule

This is an in-person position, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Primary Responsibilities  

• Supports the Creative Director in establishing exhibit project vision, plans and coordinates permanent and temporary exhibits consistent with the mission of The Maritime Aquarium, from concept through post-implementation evaluation.
• Manages the Exhibits Budget and a team of 4 direct reports including an environmental graphic designer, an exhibit content developer, and 2 exhibits maintenance and facilities individuals, and consultants as needed.
• Collect, organize, and manage content including background information, sources, and media; share this information with stakeholders and design team while working in close relation to the Aquarium’s team of interpretive content designers and education staff.
• Work closely with Creative Director and Associate Director of Interpretation on big idea, content/message, and environmental design with a focus on the guest experience.
• Research images, videos, sounds, objects, and other relevant items for exhibit interpretation. Maintain relevant data, and acquire necessary usage rights and licenses.
• Manage credits and acknowledgements in exhibit materials implementing technology solutions as needed.
• Identify and engage outside experts, creators, agencies and others who provide services related to exhibit design and experience.
• Oversee expert reviews and the editorial process; work with designer to ensure correct changes. Proofing of all exhibit elements from presentations and review packages to mechanicals for final graphics.
• Manage and facilitate external and internal partners involved in design and build process.
• Organize and help conduct audience/exhibit evaluations, and apply findings to changes and future projects.
• Monitors guest experience and oversees repairs and enhancements to existing exhibits as needed.
• In conjunction with the Creative Director, oversee the integration of the brand vision and objectives, within exhibit interpretation throughout the organization.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications  

Work Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in exhibition design, industrial design, architecture or related design field.
• 5 to 7 years in exhibit design at an aquarium, zoo, museum, or related organization ideally  with increasing responsibilities.
• Experience leading exhibit design process at an aquarium, zoo, or museum.
• Experience working under pressure and managing multiple , competing tasks and priorities.

Knowledge and Skills

• Commitment to the Aquarium’s mission, with an appreciation for the important role that the Aquarium plays in conservation, education and the life of a vibrant community.
• Knowledge of production methods and materials, fabrication techniques and procedures, with sensitivity to ecological, biological and conservation issues to elevate guest experience.
• Ability to conceptualize content in 2D and 3D spaces.
• Commitment to equity and social justice, and strong alignment with our organizational values.
• Exemplary project management skills in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Continuous improvement / problem solving mindset and way of working.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.
• Facility in collecting and utilizing data to inform and validate decisions.

Benefits

• Health Insurance Benefits

• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)

• Life Insurance

• Short- and Long-Term Disability

• Retirement Benefits and Plans

• Paid leave (Vacation and Sick Time, Bereavement Leave, Jury Duty, and Holidays)

• Paid Parental leave

• Employee Assistance Program

• Free Family Membership to The Maritime Aquarium

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.  

The Maritime Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.