Exhibit Developer – Science of Sport Exhibition

SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The California Science Center Foundation, the non-profit affiliate of the California Science Center is seeking a qualified project manager for the development of the temporary exhibition ‘Science of Sport’ (working title). Science of Sport will focus on the intrinsic relationship between science and sport. From the cutting-edge composite materials in racing bikes, to the gravity-defying physics of downhill skiing, to the transfer of energy in a golf swing…science empowers sport! Once complete, it is expected that this 8,000-10,000 sq. ft. exhibition will premiere at the Science Center in the spring of 2025 and remain on display for three years. There is a possibility that some modified version of the exhibition may tour following its initial three-year run.

The Exhibit Developer serves as a member of the exhibit project team, developing fun, educational, and memorable exhibit experiences supporting the Science Center’s mission to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone. In this capacity, the exhibit developer, working under the direction of the project lead, helps establish learning objectives and experiential goals and works with the project team to conduct research and support the content development process. The work requires routine exercise of specialized knowledge, judgment, and discretion, and includes creative and innovative thinking, planning, and conceptualizing, decision-making and following through with minimal supervision. The position is funded for three years, with the potential for an extension pending further modification.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE

• Three to five years of work experience in the field of exhibit design and/or development, or a general background in museum studies combined with knowledge of the exhibit topics and experiential objectives may be substituted for advanced academic degrees.
• Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills, with a demonstrated expertise in writing and editing content for both print and online publishing. Experience in science and sport writing preferred.
• Skilled storyteller, adept at identifying accessible, relatable narratives on complex science concepts.
• A working knowledge of the exhibit design and development process with an emphasis on creating relevant and engaging visitor experiences preferred.
• Background in exhibition development, research, exhibit content development and copy writing, and AV content development is highly desirable.
• Strong skills in organization, coordination, verbal, and written communication.
• Strong computer skills, including file sharing and project and task management software programs.
• Ability to conceptualize ideas in an exhibit framework.
  Ability to work effectively in a team environment and develop productive relationships and good communication with departments throughout the institution.
• Ability to effectively manage and advance multiple project tasks with varied stakeholders and work within tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with media production preferred.
• Excellent computer skills and proficient in common productivity software, including PowerPoint, Office 365 and G Suite. Adobe Creative Cloud experience a plus.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule as required.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Skilled in creative problem-solving and translating concepts and ideas into visitor experiences preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated expertise in writing and editing content. Experience in sport writing preferred.
• Experience working with web-based content management and digital asset management systems.
• Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree desirable.
• Background in museums or themed entertainment is strongly preferred.

Job Requirements:

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Advises curatorial and senior management on science content to meet the Foundation’s educational goals through the presentation of educational science exhibitions.
• Works under the direction of the project lead to:

 – Research science topics to develop educational messages and design goals;

– Develop content topics, treatments, scripts and storyline narratives defining key elements of the guest experience;

– Develop methods of communicating exhibit goals through hands-on interactive experiences, objects, images, AV activities, and graphics;

– Develop exhibit research documents and draft punchy, compelling, and relatable exhibit copy;

– Advise on exhibition design;

– Assist Project Manager, Project Lead and senior management in general exhibit development through installation and evaluation;

– Monitor exhibition punch list as required;

– Review and answer correspondence, serve as liaison with outside advisors and contacts as required;

– And advise Project Manager on budgetary issues with research and video and photo acquisition.

• Assists in developing and monitoring the exhibit research and copywriting schedule.
• Edits and writes exhibit research outlines and/or copy.
• Compiles, stores, and retrieves research data.
• Serves as Foundation representative to outside experts, advisors and other contacts as required
• Performs other related duties as assigned.