Interpretation and Communications Specialist

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How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline your experiences that directly relate to this position.

Summary

MBGNA seeks an Interpretation and Communications Specialist to join our team for a 3-year term. This role is instrumental in bringing to life the impact MBGNA has on society and the environment, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our many complicated relationships to - and in - the natural world. The primary function of this role is to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and public understanding, ensuring that scientific, cultural, and ecological information is not only accessible but also engaging for all visitors. In addition to the above, this 3-year term position will join a team planning and implementing a multi-year born-digital interpretation plan across the lands MBGNA stewards and digital presence. This is a hybrid position and you will report to the Marketing and Communications Manager. 

Who We Are

Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum is a transformative force for social and ecological resilience through the waters and lands we steward. We turn this commitment into action by:

• Positioning humans as active participants within the natural world and compelling the university community and our publics to negotiate the full complexity that entails
• Advancing partnerships, programs, user experience, and all that we steward to catalyze equity and justice in a radically changing world
• Emerging as University of Michigan's premier partner for research, teaching, and public impact in sustainability, climate-forward practices, and biocultural diversity
• Promoting healthier communities, cultures, and ecosystems through active care and cultivation of the gardens, fields, natural habitats, and dynamic systems that sustain our world

Responsibilities*

• 50%  Interpretation: Develop and implement interpretive programs and materials for visitors to the botanical gardens and arboretum to foster understanding of the ecological, cultural, and historical significance of MBGNA's collections and work through signage and interactive exhibits. This includes participation in, and implementation of, the development of MBGNA's digital interpretation paradigm 
• 20%  Science Communication: Translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging content for different audiences, including the university community, public visitors, and online platforms. This includes creating articles, educational materials, and blog posts
• 20% Content Creation: Produce multimedia content, including videos, infographics, and other potential media, to showcase the unique attributes of our gardens and arboretum, and the research and conservation work taking place within
• 10% Collaboration: Work with staff, researchers, and educators to gather information and data for effective interpretation and science communication. Collaborate with internal and external partners to align messaging with our mission

Required Qualifications*

• A bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field, such as Museum Studies, Environmental Sciences and Sustainability, Communications, Journalism, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated experience in science writing and science communication or interpretation in a museum or cultural organization context
• Enthusiasm for public engagement and education
• Knowledge of ecological and botanical concepts

Additional Information

• Compensation: $35,000 - $40,000
• For more information about Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, please visit mbgna.umich.edu

Benefits at the University of Michigan

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.