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Director of Development, Chester County History Center, West Chester

The Director of Development is a key member of CCHC’s leadership team and the chief architect of a comprehensive development program that strengthens and expands the Center’s culture of philanthropy.  Reporting directly to the President, the Director leads all fundraising activities, including the annual campaign, membership, major gifts, grants, corporate sponsorships, planned giving, and donor stewardship.
This role combines strategic vision with hands on execution, managing a growing development team and working closely with the President, Board of Trustees, community leaders, and donors. The Director of Development also plays a significant leadership role in preparing for major initiatives including America250 programming, growing collections care resources, expanding CCHC’s county wide partnerships, and developing long-term financial sustainability.

Key Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy & Leadership
•Design, implement, and evaluate fundraising strategy that strengthens annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, membership, grants, corporate partnerships, and sponsorships.
•Establish annual contributed revenue goals and manage progress toward targets through data driven planning, forecasting, and reporting.
•Serve as a strategic partner to the President in aligning fundraising priorities with institutional objectives.
•Serve on the Executive Leadership Team and collaborate across departments to support organizational goals.
Major Gifts & Donor Portfolio Management
•Manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects; conduct regular cultivation visits, stewardship meetings, and solicitations.
•Partner with the President and Board in major asks and high-level donor engagement.
•Develop clear pathways for donor upgrade pipelines, including planned giving and leadership gifts.
Annual Fund, Membership, & Community Support
•Direct the annual fund, including mailings, digital campaigns, membership appeals, stewardship communications, and donor recognition.
•Support and strategically grow CCHC’s membership program, working closely with the Development Manager.
•Oversee donor communications that reinforce CCHC’s mission, impact, and case for support.
Grants, Sponsorships, & Institutional Giving
•Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward corporate, foundation, and government funders.
•Lead or support grant writing, reporting, compliance, and relationship management.
•Oversee sponsorship strategies for exhibitions, programs, events, and America250 initiatives.
Special Events & External Engagement
•Lead the planning and execution of fundraising events, cultivation gatherings, and major donor experiences.
•Serve as a visible representative of CCHC at community events, donor settings, and countywide initiatives.
Development Operations & Team Management
•Manage development staff including the Development Manager and Rentals Manager; provide mentorship and professional development.
•Maintain policies and best practices for data integrity, recording, reporting, and analysis in DonorPerfect.
•Develop and oversee the development budget and revenue projections.
•Serve as staff liaison to the Board Development Committee and support capital or special campaigns as needed.

Qualifications Required
•Minimum 4 years of progressively responsible fundraising experience, ideally in a museum, cultural, or nonprofit setting.
•Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor cultivation, and securing gifts across multiple revenue streams.
•Strong writing, communication, and storytelling skills; ability to articulate a compelling case for support.
•Experience with development databases (DonorPerfect preferred) and data driven fundraising practices.
•Ability to work collaboratively and independently, manage multiple priorities, and adapt in a dynamic environment.
•A passion for history, education, community engagement, and CCHC’s mission.
Preferred
•Experience supervising staff or volunteers.
•Grant writing experience with demonstrated success in securing foundation and corporate funding.
•Familiarity with Chester County, the region’s philanthropic landscape, or the broader cultural sector.
•Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
Personal Qualities
•Creative, energetic, and strategic thinker.
•Relationship driven with strong emotional intelligence.
•Entrepreneurial spirit and comfort with ambiguity.
•High integrity, judgment, and discretion.
•A sense of humor and collaborative leadership style. 

Salary range: $70-80k

Deadline to apply: 1/9/25

Please submit the following materials:
•Cover Letter
•Resume
•Contact information for two professional references
Email to Conor Hepp, President
CHepp@MyCCHC.org
(Posted 12/8)

Director of Development, Bucks County Historical Society, Doylestown

The Director of Development (DOD) provides leadership and management of the BCHS Development Office staff and operations in support of institutional initiatives. The DOD identifies, cultivates, solicits, and stewards individuals, foundations, corporations, and government sources to provide critical fundraising dollars for the Museums’ short- and long-term strategic goals.

Key areas of responsibility:

Leadership & Supervision

• With the President & CEO and in cooperation with the Leadership Team (LT), the DOD sets  goals, develops plans, and documents the overall Development program, including solicitation strategies, donor pipelines, and performance metrics to ensure that quarterly and annual performance metrics are met.

• Ensures positive experiences and stewardship of all donors to BCHS.

• Serves as a key member of the Leadership Team.

• Attends and reports on Development at all Board meetings; staffs the Development Committee of the Board of Trustees and Rainmakers business membership committee.

• Trains, supervises, and supports Development Office staff as outlined in the organization chart in oversight of projects and programs.

Collaboration & Communications

• Cooperates closely with the President & CEO, members of the LT, and the Board to understand institutional needs, strategies, priorities, and fundraising needs.

• Translates the fundraising priorities determined in the strategic plan and annual budget into giving opportunities to share with donors through proposals, grant applications, in person meetings, events, and solicitation letters and appeals.

• Partners with the Marketing and Communications team to coordinate compelling fundraising branded materials, such as case statements, brochures, social media, messages, invitations, and other materials.

• Cultivate collaboration and teamwork with colleagues and direct reports.

Fundraising & Donor Relations

• Develops prospect lists, fundraising strategies, and approaches to engage and solicit donors.

• Establishes key performance metrics for the overall fundraising program.

• Manages relationships with a portfolio of individual donors, foundations, governmental sources, and corporate partners

• Identifies and maintains an active list of foundation and corporate grantors and writes grants and solicitations.

• Drafts solicitations and proposals to be used across the organization in pitches to prospective donors.

• Manages and grows the Membership program.

• Leverages Altru database to the highest and best use.

• Ensures the stewardship of donors with timely acknowledgments, reports, and engagement opportunities.

• Establishes and maintains protocols for gift receipt and acknowledgment; ensures that gift acceptance and gift processing systems are in place and functioning, that acknowledgements are prompt and robust, and that all charitable giving compliance and regulatory requirements are met.

Events & Campaigns

• Oversees planning and production of present fundraising events that generate both revenue and community goodwill, such as Cocktails at the Castle and Beer Fest, and stay vigilant to identify new opportunities.

• Creates and implements annual appeals, direct mail, digital fundraising initiatives, and other major and minor fundraising drives to support BCHS.

• Works with the President & CEO and Board to develop and run major fundraising campaigns.

Financial Management

• Develops and manages the department budget.

• Monitors revenue and expenses to ensure fundraising goals are met.

• Creates accurate progress reports to share with LT and Board of Trustees.

Qualifications Summary

• Bachelor degree in a related field and 5+ years of professional fundraising experience; master’s degree preferred.

• Relevant and essential experience may be substituted for education qualifications.

• Substantial knowledge, comfort, and experience with many types of fundraising, including annual giving and donor engagement programs, such as planned legacy giving, membership programs, corporate sponsorship, events, direct mail appeals, and major campaign gifts.

• Knowledge of the current fundraising market in Doylestown/Bucks County Area, and throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

• Effective leadership skills and management experience.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule.

Position Details

• Salary range is $85,000 - $90,000, based on skill and experience

• This is a full-time exempt position and reports to the President & CEO

• This is an on-site, in-office position at Mercer Museum in Doylestown

Interested candidates should send a cover letter, résumé, and three references as a single PDF to careers@mercermuseum.org, ATTN: Director of Development
(Posted 12/8)

Educator 1, Ephrata Cloister, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Ephrata

Do you have a passion for history and sharing it with others? The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission is seeking a skilled, energetic person to educate museum visitors of all ages about the history of a prominent religious community and the 18th century world in which it existed. 

This position is assigned to the Ephrata Cloister, an American Alliance of Museums accredited historic site in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and assists in the scheduling, development, implementation, promotion, and evaluation of public educational and interpretive programs and museum exhibits that support the site's mission. 

If you have an interest in history, if you like to develop and conduct programming for school-age children and adults, and if you enjoy serving the public, apply today to continue your career at one of the Commonwealth's most unique museums.

Each year, thousands of people from across the country and around the world visit Ephrata Cloister to experience the historic home of Pennsylvania's most prominent 18th-century religious community. This 28-acre National Historic Landmark features a modern visitor center, two cemeteries, and 11 historically significant buildings, dating to the 18th and early 19th-centuries. 

As the Museum Educator 1 at Ephrata Cloister, you will play an integral part in the daily operation of the historic site. You will coordinate overall visitor services and the operation of the reception desk. You will also conduct daily guided tours, school programs, special programs, lectures (both in-person and virtual), and off-site educational outreach programs. The Museum Educator 1 handles the booking and scheduling of group and motorcoach tour reservations and assists with promotion of the same.

As the Museum Educator 1, you will assist the Museum Educator 2 and other site staff in developing, implementing, promoting, and evaluating Ephrata Cloister's educational and interpretive programs. You will help establish and maintain strong relationships with regional schools, fellow PHMC educators, craft people, and speakers. The Museum Educator 1 also assists in recruiting, training, scheduling, and evaluating volunteers.

This is a professional museum education position that will rely on your knowledge of industry standards and best practices.

Closing date: 12/22/25

Salary range: $51,971.00 - $79,062.00 Annually

Please click here to learn more and to apply.
(Posted 12/8)

Archivist 2, Pennsylvania State Archives, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Harrisburg

Are you passionate about preserving history and ensuring long-term access to important records? We are looking for a detail-oriented, organized, and inquisitive professional to join the Public Services Section of the State Archives Division as an Archivist 2. In this role, you will safeguard Commonwealth heritage while supporting research, outreach, and records management efforts. In this role, your work supports the Commission’s archival records, public reference programs, and digitization initiatives, while also assisting with collection preservation initiatives, appraisal, arrangement, as well as description of government records and manuscripts. Apply today to help with our mission to discover, protect, and share Pennsylvania’s past, inspiring others to value and use our history in meaningful ways.

As an Archivist 2, your work will be dedicated to preserving documentary materials as well as digital and non-digital archival records relating to the state’s heritage and the operation of state and local governments within the commonwealth. Work involves performing archival work to ensure the preservation, availability, and dissemination of historic documentary materials and records and to stimulate interest in the principles and methods of maintaining and using historic documentary materials and records. You will be responsible for inventorying, appraising, arranging, indexing, describing, and preserving documentary materials and public records; advising and consulting with state and local officials on records retention, storage, and preservation issues; making recommendations relating to the collection and disposition of public records; and working with or overseeing contractors involved in preservation or storage of records. Additional responsibilities include:

• Preparing research guides, online exhibits, and presentations
• Providing reference assistance to visitors in the State Archives public research areas
• Generating digital content that highlights and facilitates the use of collections
• Speaking at meetings, special workshops, and webinars
• Representing the State Archives at various archival, historical, and educational conferences and events
• Assisting in the examination and appraisal of historical manuscripts and public records

Salary Range: $59,345.00 - $90,211.00 Annually

Deadline to apply: 12/26

To learn  more and  apply, please click here.
(Posted 12/5)

Architectural Consultant, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Harrisburg

Are you interested in working on historic sites and museums administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC)? If so, consider joining our diverse team that is responsible for maintaining over 400 buildings. This position gives you the opportunity to put your passion for architecture and history to use serving the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. As an Architectural Consultant, you will be responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing construction projects for PHMC. Apply today to become an essential member of our team, helping preserve the history of Pennsylvania.

As an Architectural Consultant, you will be providing architectural design, design review, technical consulting, and related professional services for construction projects at historic sites and museums. You will be responsible for planning and managing projects on some of Pennsylvania's most important historic sites, ensuring they tell the history of Pennsylvania and are in good condition for the visiting public. Work involves overseeing renovation and new construction projects for conformance and compliance with current building codes and standards for the treatment of historic properties. You will have the opportunity to visit project sites to collect information as well as develop design drawings and specifications for each assigned project. Additional responsibilities include:

• Coordinating work with staff of the Division of Architecture and Preservation and site administrators
• Reviewing design documents and project work assignments
• Managing projects designed by DGS (Department of General Services)
• Compiling detailed cost estimates

Bring your architectural insight to the Division of Architecture and Preservation and help us transform historic spaces into unforgettable visitor experiences.

Salary range:

Deadline to apply: 12/18

To learn more and  to apply please click here.
(Posted 12/5)

Summer Keystone Internships, The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Various Locations

Internships in this year’s program will focus on several disciplines and be available in eight counties across the Commonwealth. Applications for the 2026 Keystone Internship Program are open now through February 8, 2026.

Wage: $17.38/hr

Please click here for more information and to apply.
(Posted 12/4)

Project Technician I (Lead), The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia

The Franklin Institute, the most visited museum in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, strives to be the world leader in promoting science and technology education and literacy through inspiring and engaging experiences that cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and an understanding of the crucial role science plays in our lives.

At The Franklin Institute, we provide an environment that is as nurturing as it is dynamic. Our team-oriented approach allows for ample learning and career growth opportunities. We think you will find the Institute offers the ideal atmosphere in which to best use your skills and talents. We are eager for your input, ideas, and inspiration.

Position Description:

The Lead Technician will direct the Project and Operations technicians in the repair and maintenance of exhibit devices.  This position will also take part in the installation and de-installation of all travel exhibits working closely with visiting production teams and the hired IATSE installation team.  The Lead Technician will be the Program Support administrator for the Operations Work Order system.  The Lead Technician will also:

·         Work closely with design team as new exhibits are developed to determine staffing and equipment needs.

·         Update and maintain a complete inventory of all exhibits and devices. 

·         Supply inventory and restock as needed; ensuring inventory is up to date including maintaining spare parts inventory.

·         Make weekly tours of all devices and determine operational status.

·         Ensure that staff members are trained in the operation of the equipment and basic repair of exhibits.

·         Direct operations technicians in exhibit repair and maintenance.

·         Schedule, follow-up and report on PM maintenance tasks using reporting tools in Maintenance Connection.

·         Assist operations technicians with floor coverage when needed and determine when issues should be escalated.

·         Assign and follow-up on work orders.

·         Maintain a working relationship with service vendors and function as their point of contact. 

·         Collaborate closely with the Assistant Director of Exhibit Operations to assign daily tasks and direct daily workflow.

·         Attend meetings for new, permanent and travel exhibitions and weekly operations Leads meetings.

·         Review technical documents for new exhibits and be able to provide guidance to operations technicians as needed. 

·         Post event/overtime assignments for operations technicians and cover assignments as needed.

Position Requirements:

         5-7 years of experience working in a maintenance or service technician field.

·         Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills. Computer and AV systems troubleshooting experience preferred.

·         Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office 360 computer programs. Will also need to learn the TFI work order system, QSys, and Dante.

·         Experience working in a museum, hospitality, or entertainment venue.

·         Strong written and verbal communication skills.

·         The ability to work varied shifts and hours as required, including evenings and weekends.

·         Ability to read and interpret building and technical drawings.

·         Ability to install, operate, and dismantle required AV systems for events.

·         Experience using hand, shop, and power tools.

·         The ability to use pallet jacks, forklifts, and scissors lifts.

Status:  Full-time, 40 hours per week, Tuesday – Saturday (7:30 am – 4:00 pm).  Represented by I.U.O.E. Local 835.  Must be available to work a varied schedule and overtime.

Salary:  $39.07/hour

Benefits Information:

The Franklin Institute offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision, 401K, life insurance and disability coverage. We also offer generous Paid Time Off, paid holidays, and numerous wellness program benefits.

To apply, please visit our Career Center. 

Research shows that women and people from underrepresented groups often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications.  We recognize that it is highly unlikely that someone meets 100% of the qualifications for a role.  If much of this job description describes you, then please apply for this role.

The Franklin Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability or protected veteran status.
(Posted 12/1)

Field Assistant I, Avian Research, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh

Field Assistant I, Avian Research assists Powdermill’s avian research efforts including long-term bird banding, surveying birds by sight and sound, and/or tracking birds using digitally coded transmitters and automated receiving stations (i.e. Motus).

This is a temporary, full time position expected to run from March 30, 2026, to May 30, 2026.

Wage: $16/hr

Please submit all application materials through the Carnegie Museums Career Site.

https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/car/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/11100
(Posted 12/1)

Guest Experience Manager, The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia

The Franklin Institute, the most visited museum in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, strives to be the world leader in promoting science and technology education and literacy through inspiring and engaging experiences that cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and an understanding of the crucial role science plays in our lives.

At The Franklin Institute, we provide an environment that is as nurturing as it is dynamic. Our team-oriented approach allows for ample learning and career growth opportunities. We think you will find the Institute offers the ideal atmosphere in which to best use your skills and talents. We are eager for your input, ideas, and inspiration.

Position Description:

The Guest Experience Manager will supervise and execute all aspects of the museum floor operations with a primary focus on the ticketing and guest services functions. This customer-focused position must ensure that all of the areas perform successfully, meeting the operational, professional, and customer standards of the museum to deliver a world-class visitor experience. The Guest Experience Manager will also be responsible for:

·         Supervise all departmental staff members and assist with any job function when needed

·         Successfully oversee the daily operating plan, including management of first aid and lost and found

·         Create a fun, positive, inclusive team environment for all staff members

·         Monitor departmental standards with a focus on delivering a World Class Visitor Experience

·         Manage and evaluate staff performance

·         Responsible for staffing; including recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and training

·         Assist with customer service training and reward and recognition programs for all front line staff

·         Assign and adjust staff members on the daily schedule to cover the museum based upon the days business pressures

·         Establish a significant presence on the floor to ensure all areas are operating successfully and that the staff members are having fun

·         Ensure the security of all revenue collected through the ticketing area by observing established theft deterrence measures

·         Execute the daily box office cash out including verifying all vouchers and coupons

·         Responsible for safe reconciliation and ordering operating funds as needed

Position Requirements:

·         A Bachelor's degree is preferred or a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience managing staff in a sales and customer service setting are required

·         Proven success operating within a high-volume ticketed venue or visitor facing organization

·         Experience coaching, motivating, and monitoring staff members in a fun, energetic environment

·         Must be able to stand and walk for long periods of time

·         Ability to handle multiple tasks, make decisions and work in a busy environment

·         Outgoing, positive, and team-oriented personality

·         Strong problem-solving skills

·         Excellent Oral communication skills

Status:  Full-time, 37.5 hours per week (work schedule subject to change based upon business needs and attendance; must be available to work evenings, weekends and holidays)

Salary:  $60,000 - $65,000/year

Benefits Information:  The Franklin Institute offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision, 401K, life insurance and disability coverage. We also offer generous Paid Time Off, paid holidays, and numerous wellness program benefits.

To apply, please visit our Career Center. 
(Posted 11/17)