Director of Outreach and Engagement

Location: Marathon County Historical Society – Wausau, WI

Reports To: Executive Director

Supervises: Outreach and Engagement Support Staff, Volunteers, and Interns

Status: Full-time, Exempt

Company Description:

The Marathon County Historical Society, formed in 1952, is dedicated to helping people connect with their history and community through education and preservation. With core values of education and preservation, the society offers research, experiences, and entertainment that highlight the historical significance of Wausau, WI. The organization's main venues include the Yawkey House Museum and the Woodson History Center. Both buildings play a crucial role in preserving the rich history of Marathon County.

Role Description:

The Marathon County Historical Society (MCHS) seeks a dynamic, community-minded Director of Outreach and Engagement to lead its efforts in connecting the museum with diverse audiences across Marathon County and beyond. This leadership position plays a vital role in developing strategic partnerships, public programs, and educational initiatives that further the museum’s mission to collect, preserve, and share the rich history of our region. The Director is also responsible for supervising outreach and engagement staff, managing the department's day-to-day operations, and aligning programs with institutional goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Community Engagement & Outreach

• Build and maintain relationships with local schools, libraries, cultural institutions, nonprofits, and community groups.
• Represent MCHS at public events, community forums, and regional collaborations.
• Develop off-site and on-site programs that increase community awareness and participation.

Public Programs & Educational Initiatives

• Plan, implement, and evaluate engaging public programs, lectures, workshops, tours, and family-friendly events.
• Oversee the development of school programs and partnerships with educators to support K–12 learning.
• Ensure all programs reflect inclusive, accessible, and historically accurate content.

Team Leadership & Staff Supervision

• Supervise and support the Outreach and Engagement team, including program coordinators, part-time staff, volunteers, and interns.
• Provide training, mentorship, and performance evaluations to support staff growth and development.
• Manage department scheduling, workflows, and budgeting in collaboration with the Executive Director.

Strategic Planning & Evaluation

• Develop and implement a long-term outreach and engagement strategy that aligns with the MCHS mission.
• Conduct community needs assessments and program evaluations to guide future programming.
• Prepare reports and presentations for leadership, board members, and funders.

Marketing & Promotion

• Work with the communications team to promote programs through social media, email newsletters, and local media outlets.
• Assist in the development of outreach materials and marketing campaigns that reflect MCHS values and branding.

Grant Support & Fundraising

• Collaborate with the development team on identifying grant opportunities related to outreach and education.
• Assist with writing grant proposals, reports, and representing programs to potential funders and donors.

Work Context and Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. and grasp objects
• Ability to move around the Marathon County Historical Society properties and gardens, as well as visit off-site locations that may not be ADA accessible
• The MCHS has steps requiring the utilization of stairs
• Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time
• Contact with others in-person, over zoom, and via email and telephone is necessary

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public History, Museum Studies, Education, Communications, or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in museum outreach, public programming, or community engagement, preferably in a supervisory role.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Experience supervising staff, managing budgets, and coordinating complex projects.
• Ability to work some evenings and weekends for events and programs.

Compensation:

Salary commensurate with experience. Includes benefits package with paid time off and professional development opportunities.

To Apply:

• Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to blake@marathoncountyhistory.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.