Job Description

Collections Interpreter – Cranbrook Art Museum

Founded by philanthropists George and Ellen Booth in 1904, Cranbrook Educational Community is one of the world’s leading centers of education, science, and art. Comprised of a graduate Academy of Art, contemporary Art Museum, Center for Collections and Research, House and Gardens, Institute of Science, and more than 1,600 students attending our Pre-K through 12 independent college preparatory Schools, Cranbrook welcomes thousands of visitors and students to its campus each year. Critics have called Cranbrook “the most enchanted and enchanting setting in America” and in 1989 it was designated a National Historic Landmark. The campus is located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, about 20 miles north of downtown Detroit. For more information, please visit Cranbrook's website.

The Collections Interpreter is a passionate and engaging ambassador to Cranbrook Art Museum. They love interacting with people as much as objects and bringing meaningful stories to life. They will lead tours and experiences in the collections wing, exhibitions, and surrounding outdoor spaces, for a variety of audiences. This may include researching contemporary artists, art movements, and thinking through new ways of presenting information in accessible, exciting formats. Collections Interpreters are expected to be inquisitive, engaging, and professional in their presentation of tour content and management of audiences.

Schedules for this position will vary, working five to eight hours per week. The position requires some weekend and evening hours, taking place year-round. The pay rate is $20.60/hour.

Training on Cranbrook Art Museum’s collections, history, and future, as well as best practices for culturally conscious and engaging tours, will be provided to augment your customer service expertise and demonstrated interest in contemporary art and design.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Deliver high-quality programs and tours during weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
• Delight in co-learning, leading discussions and sharing knowledge with large and small audiences as well as peers.
• Research and adapt tour content for specialized audiences.
• Maintain a secure and safe tour experience by both safeguarding Cranbrook buildings and objects, while being alert and compassionate to the physical needs of visitors.
• Attend Museum meetings and tour training sessions, as necessary.
• Coordinate and confirm tour schedules through regular email and scheduling software communications with Museum staff.
• May be responsible for writing up protocols and/or program plans.
• May oversee a program or part of a program, and be responsible for its development, planning and execution.
• Work special events for the Museum on occasion.

Requirements:

• Enthusiasm for the subject and an eagerness to share that enthusiasm with learners of all ages.
• College-level contemporary art, art history, performance, museum studies, education or other relevant courses is strongly preferred – however, a demonstrated interest in art, along with training in performance, comedy, debate, or public speaking would also be valued.
• A minimum of one year of experience teaching, a variety of ages, either formal or informally, is strongly preferred.
• Customer service experience and the ability to work with individuals and groups positively and effectively, with an emphasis on adult audiences.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work successfully in a group/team setting.
• Must be able to think and act critically on the spot as issues arise and adapt presentation style to suit the needs of the audience.
• Creativity and innovation are paramount to this position! Must be inquisitive, think beyond dominant narratives of contemporary art and adapt to challenges presented by audiences or circumstances.

Cranbrook offers competitive compensation and a unique environment that values collaboration.

For consideration, please submit a resume and cover letter.