Museum education officer

Museum education officer job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Typical responsibilities of the job include:

• preparing and distributing publicity materials and displays
• writing plans and reports
• producing educational resources/study packs
• liaising with schools, businesses, LEAs, voluntary/outreach/community groups and other local organisations
• organising school visits
• managing budgets
• generating income via fundraising activities and submitting funding bids
• analysing data and collating information
• attending conferences.

Working with people of all ages is a key feature of the job and includes activities such as talks, presentations, workshops, demonstrations, guided tours and running courses. Some evening or weekend work may be required.

Typical employers of museum education officers

• public sector organisations
• local authorities
• museums
• galleries
• archaeological units
• universities
• private collectors
• independent museums and galleries.

Positions are increasingly offered on short or fixed term contracts. Jobs are advertised in local authority vacancy lists, newspapers and specialist publications including Museums Journal, Museums Association Bulletin, Museum Jobs, the Times Educational Supplement, the Times Higher Education Supplement, Leisure Management and Opportunities.

Qualifications and training required

The minimum academic qualification is a good degree, although most museum staff take a postgraduate qualification in museum studies. Some people do this before applying; others study for a qualification while working.

It's not essential to have a degree in a specific subject; however, it will help if your degree is related to the type of subject matter you wish to work with. It is essential to possess relevant paid or voluntary work experience.

Key skills for museum education officers

• enthusiasm
• team working skills
• organisational skills
• communication skills
• interpersonal skills.