Careers

Assistant Curator

The Museum of the American Revolution is seeking an Assistant Curator to assist collections and exhibitions research, cataloging and collections management. The position will be part of the exhibit development team for changing special exhibits, research objects in the Museum’s collection and assist with research and development of digital projects relating to collections and exhibitions. The Assistant Curator will work under the direction of the Director of Collections and Exhibitions.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities
• Serves as a member of the museum’s exhibit development team for special exhibits - researches possible loan objects; participates in brainstorming and exhibit development meetings; performs historical research as needed; assists with exhibition installation and deinstallation, as necessary; assists with loan requests and image identification and requests.

• Helps with managing collections records – inventory, cataloging, research, database entry and maintenance.

• Assists with research and development of rotations for the Museum’s core exhibition galleries – researches possible loan items, collection objects and themes; participates in brainstorming and core gallery development meetings; assists with installation and deinstallation, as necessary.

• Assists with research and development of digital projects related to the Museum’s collections and exhibitions. Assist with identifying images and acquiring image use rights; assist with writing and revising label and panel text for the digital versions of exhibits. Assist with research and writing about objects in the Museum’s collection for web and social media uses.

• Assists with collections management tasks, as needed – pest management, cleaning and maintenance of exhibits, photography, object packing and movement, etc.

• Assists with preparing reports and public presentations about the Museum’s collections and exhibitions.

• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements
• Education: Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field, such as history, public history, museum studies; or appropriate work experience.

• Work Experience: one to three years of museum curatorial experience.

Experience/Skills
• Experience with historical research – both online and in person – especially with objects and material culture methodology. Experience with cataloging museum objects.

• Knowledge of best practices in museum collections management including the handling, care, preservation, installation, and storage of artifacts, registration methods, and electronic collection records.

• Familiarity with exhibit development and research.

• Experience with online exhibition projects is a plus.

• Capacity and organizational ability to work in a fast-paced, diverse, multi-tasked environment. Ability to manage multiple work processes and projects simultaneously and the ability to be receptive to changing priorities.

• Advanced computer skills in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and automated collections and registration systems, such as PastPerfect.

• Familiarity with cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox, generally comfortable with technology.

• Strong attention to detail.

The Museum of the American Revolution (www.AmRevMuseum.org) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To apply, please send a cover letter including, resume and three professional references to employment@amrevmuseum.org.

Cleaner

Position Description
The Museum is seeking an experienced, energetic and highly motivated full- or part-time cleaner who is responsible for cleaning and sanitizing offices, meeting rooms, restrooms, break room and all public areas of the Museum. The ideal candidate is detail oriented, flexible and must be available to work weekends, holidays and very early morning hours. Typical hours would be 6-11 a.m. for part-time and 6 a.m. – 2 p.m. for full-time.

Primary Responsibilities
• Vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping of flooring and stairs.
• Clean and sanitize restrooms.
• Clean sinks, countertops, microwaves, and refrigerators in break room
• Restock supplies in bathrooms, break rooms, and common areas.
• Empty all trash cans and replace liners, clean receptacles as necessary.
• Dusting and cleaning office desks and furniture that are not cluttered.
• Cleaning windowsills and windows.
• Maintain janitor closets in a clean, organized, and safe manner.
• Maintain janitorial equipment in a clean, safe, and operable condition.
• Proper labeling, dilution, and use of all chemicals.
• Wearing proper Personal Protective Equipment at all times.
• Maintain vending closets in a clean, organized and safe manner.
• Able to operate a walk-behind scrubber and a high speed burnisher
• Assist in snow removal as needed.
• Other routine maintenance duties as assigned.

Skills and Knowledge
• Strong attention to detail.
• Customer oriented and friendly.
• Knowledge of cleaning equipment and chemicals.
• Ability to understand and carry out verbal & written instructions independently.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, mornings, and early mornings.
• Ability to perform light physical tasks, lifting 50 lbs of force on a frequent basis.
• Ability to perform such activities as grasping, lifting, reaching.
• High school degree.

The Museum of the American Revolution (www.AmRevMuseum.org) is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To apply, please send a cover letter including resume and three professional references along with a resume to employment@amrevmuseum.org.

Director of Building Operations

The Museum of the American Revolution uncovers and shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government. Through the Museum’s unmatched collection, immersive galleries, powerful theater experiences, and interactive elements, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for how this nation came to be and feel inspired to consider their role in ensuring that the promise of the American Revolution endures. Located just steps away from Independence Hall, the Museum serves as a portal to the region’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context, and encouraging exploration. The Museum, which opened on April 19, 2017, is a private, non-profit, and non-partisan organization. It operates within a 185,000 square foot, LEED-gold certified building designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects.

Position Summary
Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and working in partnership with executive leadership, the Director of Building Operation oversees four key areas at the Museum of the American Revolution:

1) Plant management: Facilities, building maintenance, (HVAC, MEP, structural trades), grounds maintenance, custodial services, compliance, and other building functions.
2) Security: 24-hour security coverage including oversight of guards and security systems
3) Capital projects: Planning, construction management, and oversight
4) Technology: Helpdesk and IT infrastructure, including cyber security, computers, and audio-visual/electronics used in Museum galleries, for distance learning/livestreaming programs.  

In addition, the position is responsible for operational oversight of sub-contractors for the Museum’s retail and café/catering operations.

This position has five full-time direct reports (IT Manager, Chief of Security, AV Specialist, Chief Engineer and Event and Facility Manager). The department of 26 includes a team of full- and part-time employees.

Management Responsibilities
• Establish and maintain high standards of building maintenance and operations and safety commensurate with a high visibility, intensely used, and architecturally unique structure.
• Lead planning and decision-making required to maintain the safety, appearance, and effective/efficient use of the facility and conduct of daily activities.
• Participate as a member of the executive management team in planning; budgeting; and other management decision-making.
• Oversee capital projects and make recommendations regarding expansion and building projects consistent with the Museum’s institutional goals.

Daily Responsibilities
• Oversee facilities & security staff in maintaining the Museum’s building on a day-to-day basis, including reviewing schedules; conducting regular inspections to ensure high standards of appearance and readiness.
• Supervise, hire, and evaluate department staff consistent with the Museum’s policies and, industry best practices.
• Supervise all vendor contracts associated with structure maintenance and operations including fire detection, fire protection, elevators, HVAC, security, electrical and mechanical.
• Respond to building system issues or failures. Diagnose causes and supervise all activities required to restore proper operation.
• Plan and supervise building structure and service systems repair, alteration, and upgrades.
• Respond to building security alerts, ensuring proper response is undertaken as well as proper security system operation is maintained.
• Maintain the library of building maintenance and operations manuals, reference documents, and spare parts.
• Maintain relationship and requisite paperwork with the City of Philadelphia Fire Department, and State of Pennsylvania compliance agencies.
• Manage the Museum’s information technology and audio-visual systems, and oversee set- up and repairs by staff, contractors, or consultants.
• Oversee inventory of facility supplies and spares.
• Manage security systems, including the building key system, access control system, CCTV system and security alarm system throughout.
• Coordinate with other museum staff to minimize the impact of building maintenance and operations activities upon museum functions.
• Maintain and manage the Museum’s furniture, fixtures and equipment inventory as required.
• Ensure all staff are trained and knowledgeable in the Museum’s security and fire procedures and safety regulations.
• Maintain museum surveillance tours to look for and identify building concerns, review logs, identify opportunities and ensure there are no building operational abnormalities or inefficiencies.
• Support the Museum financial objectives and funding process by preparing estimates, making recommendations related to major building renovation expenditures, and collecting and analyzing cost data relative to national and local economic trends.
• Supervises the preparation of all documents required to satisfy building regulations.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Maintain a strong relationship with the Philadelphia Police Department and Philadelphia Fire Department as well as local institutional relationships to ensure awareness of events and or issues of concern in and around the historic district.

Qualifications
• BS/BA and/or 10 years of progressive management experience in facilities management, preferably in a complex, agency, nonprofit, or corporate environment.
• Thorough knowledge of maintenance equipment operation and design and of leading-edge methods of providing efficient and effective maintenance services. Knowledge of green buildings preferred.
• Experience or knowledge of museum HVAC requirements, monitoring, and records.
• Ability to manage a full-service facility maintenance program and provide leadership for a diverse work force.
• Ability to direct and converse technically with engineers and architects regarding Museum systems, design, and construction.

Requirements
• Ability to work flexible and variable hours including some weekends and evenings.
• Ability to respond quickly to urgent security, building service and utility failures, including after hours and on weekends.
• Physical dexterity required to access remote spaces (roof, ceiling crawl spaces, etc.) as well as ability to lift and move items of various weights and sizes.
• Familiarity with computer-based project management systems (word, excel, email and Microsoft applications).
• Interest in the museum environments.
• Ability to read and understand building architectural and MEP drawings using CAD or Plan Grid software.
• Experience with Building Automation System.

Other Qualifications
• Experience working in an environment serving the public.
• Strong team player and ability to work with people of many different backgrounds and perspectives.
• Excellent listening skills and ability to consider ideas of others.
• Can work in a fast-paced and complex environment.
• Ability to work independently and organize effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. The Museum encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, disability, and veteran status.

To apply, please send a cover letter including resume and three professional references along with a resume to employment@amrevmuseum.org.

Human Resources Coordinator

The Museum of the American Revolution's mission is to uncover and share compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government. Ideally situated in the heart of historic Philadelphia, just steps away from Independence Hall, the Museum serves as a portal to the region’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context, and encouraging exploration. Since opening to the public in 2017, the Museum has gained public and critical acclaim for its “nuanced, warts-and-all version of the American Revolution” and established itself as a destination that brings history to life in a unique and powerful way. Nearly a million visitors have experienced the Museum’s rich, complex, and inspiring Revolutionary story and millions more have engaged with this fuller, more inclusive telling through online exhibits, interactives, and other virtual programs. As we march toward the 250th anniversary of the nation’s birth in 2026, the Museum is poised to play a leadership role as a galvanizing force to help guide our country on a path toward building “a more perfect union.”

Position Description
The Human Resources Coordinator will provide assistance with all HR practices, policies and programs in the Human Resources department. Responsible for recruitment and onboarding efforts throughout the museum. Reporting to the Chief Human Resource Officer, the Human Resource Coordinator will provide administrative support including record-keeping, file maintenance and HRIS entry as well as support in employee relations through HR events and communication. The HR Coordinator will be a passionate HR professional who thrives on tackling multiple projects, deadlines and priorities in a dynamic environment. 

Primary Responsibilities
• Administer/manage recruitment efforts and onboarding process of employees to include writing and placing advertisements, working with supervisors to screen and interview candidates; conducts reference checking; conducts new-employee orientations etc.
• Support new hire orientation, including creation of employee emails and managing new hire documents.
• Maintain recruitment related reports such as job openings list, applicant tracking, new hire log and turnover reports.
• Maintains department records, reports and photos. Maintains organizational charts, employee directory, and department manual.
• Responsible for employee communication that includes employee bulletin boards, employee newsletter, and the employee intranet.
• Responsible for organizing HR events and activities including execution, participation and promotion.
• Process workers’ compensation claims.
• Maintain/update all HR forms, policies, employee files and employee handbook.
• Maintain/manage HRIS and generate employee reports through ADP Workforce Now.
• Assist with benefits administration, answer inquiries, validate accuracy of benefits invoicing and ensure that benefits are properly administered.
• Oversee internship program including recruiting, onboarding, creating and implementing internship events and exit interviews.
• Administer employee surveys including the annual all staff survey.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field. PHR preferred.

Experience/Skills
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in HR generalist capacity
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work in a confidential environment is a must
• Experience working in a non-profit preferred
• Self-starter with high level of organizational skills, the ability to independently organize and prioritize workload
• Ability to interface effectively with all levels of Museum staff in advisory and observational manner
• Computer literacy with proficiency in MS Office Suite. Experience with ADP Workforce Now preferred.
• Working knowledge of efficient office systems and procedures

The Museum of the American Revolution (www.AmRevMuseum.org) is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume and three professional references to employment@amrevmuseum.org.

James Forten Actor (Younger)

The Museum of the American Revolution is seeking an actor from the Philadelphia region to portray the prominent African American Revolutionary figure, James Forten, for a theatrical play that will debut in October of 2021. Auditions will occur in August and rehearsals in September. The play will be on multiple platforms, including live, virtual, and filmed performances hosted on the Museum website. The actor would be portraying Forten as an 18-year-old after serving two tours as a privateer in the Revolutionary War. The actor must be able to convincingly portray an African American male between 18-20 years old. 

Applications should include a letter of interest and a resume, and be submitted to Michael Idriss, African American Interpretive Fellow, at midriss@amrevmuseum.org. 

Salary: $25+ per hour for actors

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James Forten Actor (Older)

The Museum of the American Revolution is seeking an actor from the Philadelphia region to portray the prominent African American Revolutionary figure, James Forten, for a theatrical play that will debut in October of 2021. Auditions will occur in August and rehearsals in September. The play will be on multiple platforms, including live, virtual, and filmed performances hosted on the Museum website. The actor would be portraying Forten as a 72-year-old after he and other men of African descent have been disenfranchised from voting in Pennsylvania. The actor must be able to convincingly portray an African American male between 70-75 years old. 

Applications should include a letter of interest and a resume, and be submitted to Michael Idriss, African American Interpretive Fellow, at midriss@amrevmuseum.org. 

Salary: $25+ per hour for actors

Maintenance Technician

Position Description
The Maintenance Technician is responsible for all maintenance service requests as assigned.  Will perform preventative maintenance, changes, improvements, and repairs to building systems as appropriate. This position reports to the Lead Engineer.

Primary Responsibilities
• Responsible for the completion of all maintenance service requests as assigned.
• Must use the upmost safety practices and standard while completing projects assigned.
• Performs a wide variety of general and semiskilled maintenance activities (e.g. carpentry, painting, minor electrical, Plumbing, etc.) for the purpose of completing projects within established time frames.
• Installs system component parts of classroom and office equipment and facility components (e.g. lighting, alarms, plumbing, security, electrical panels, etc.) for the purpose of providing a safe and workable environment.
• Arranges furniture and equipment.
• Maintain inventory of museum equipment.
• Maintains assigned tools and equipment for the purpose of ensuring availability in safe operating condition.
• Complete scheduled Preventative Maintenance Initiatives
• Responsible for reporting any damage that has happened or may occur to the lead Engineer.
• Work outdoors in extreme weather conditions i.e snow removal.
• General roof area maintenance i.e. cleaning roof drains, skylight lighting maintenance.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education
• High School Diploma or equivalent required. Related technical school degree preferred.

Experience/Skills
• 5-plus years in maintenance at major museum, hotel, or building
• Knowledge of carpentry, painting, plastering, light electrical, plumbing, masonry ad mechanical repair.
• Must be able to read, understand, and perform work from sketches, drawings, and blueprints required.
• Ability to multitask, work in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and ability to interact and assist guests, colleagues and other departments.
• Ability to work flexible schedule to include weekends, evenings, and holidays if needed..
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and be able to push, pull, and maneuver various types of carts and hand trucks through the building.
• Must be able to climb and work from a ladder at a height of at least eight feet.
• Must be able to work in all weather conditions.

The Museum of the American Revolution (www.AmRevMuseum.org) is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To apply, please send a resume and three professional references to employment@amrevmuseum.org.

Part-Time Security Guard

Position Description
Provide routine security of all museum visitors, employees and museum property. Coordinate with other staff members. Monitor CCTV cameras and alarm systems inside security room. Interact with the business guests including badging, assist in connecting guest with staff person. Respond to emergency situations. The Security Guard reports directly to the Chief of Security.

Primary Responsibilities
• Provide security of all museum guest, assets and other employees.
• Coordinate with other team members to provide a safe and secure environment.
• Monitor CCTV cameras and security systems.
• Interact with guest/employees in a courteous manner.
• Patrol interior and exterior.
• Answer questions and assist guests.
• Answer phones or greet guest/employees in a welcoming manner.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Must be available to working early morning or evenings as needed. 
• Weekends a must. 
• Certified in First aid and CPR.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Knowledge
• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• Minimum of 2 years’ security or police experience
• Excellent communication skills
• Neat and Professional appearance
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
• Must be able to climb stairs
• Must be able to stand for prolonged periods of time
• Must have the ability to maintain a positive working relationship with leadership and staff to ensure a safe and secure environment
• Excellent problem solving skills

The Museum of the American Revolution (www.AmRevMuseum.org) is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To apply, please send a resume and three professional references to employment@amrevmuseum.org.

Staff Accountant

The Museum of the American Revolution's mission is to uncover and share compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government. Ideally situated in the heart of historic Philadelphia, just steps away from Independence Hall, the Museum serves as a portal to the region’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context, and encouraging exploration. Since opening to the public in 2017, the Museum has gained public and critical acclaim for its “nuanced, warts-and-all version of the American Revolution” and established itself as a destination that brings history to life in a unique and powerful way. Nearly a million visitors have experienced the Museum’s rich, complex, and inspiring Revolutionary story and millions more have engaged with this fuller, more inclusive telling through online exhibits, interactives, and other virtual programs. As we march toward the 250th anniversary of the nation’s birth in 2026, the Museum is poised to play a leadership role as a galvanizing force to help guide our country on a path toward building “a more perfect union.”

Overview
The Museum is seeking a Staff Accountant reporting to the Accounting Manager. This position is responsible for processing the bi-weekly payroll and associated reports and entries, processing, verification and reconciliation of daily sales, processing accounts payable and related functions, and other general accounting duties. Candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Two years of payroll experience, preferably with ADP Work Force Now preferred. Must possess a high level of professionalism and confidentiality. 

Primary Responsibilities
• Maintain Payroll systems including:

• – Biweekly processing of payroll, including timesheet and timeclock verification, handling payroll inquiries, producing and distributing payroll reports and validation of processed payroll.
• – Maintain accuracy of PTO system, furnish employee reporting of PTO and process PTO accrual calculations.
• – Maintain accuracy of all staff data in ADP including pay rates, deductions, taxes, home departments, allocations, etc. Complete periodic payroll audits to verify accuracy of data. 
• – Respond to requests for verification of past/present employment, income verification, worker’s compensation and unemployment claims.
• – Prepare various payroll-related reports to be distributed to HR and other departments.
• – Post bi-weekly payroll into the General Ledger and reconcile payroll general ledger accounts.
• – Report and submit 403(b) contributions to 3rd party administrator; reconcile totals to 3rd party administrator statements.
• – Reconcile and audit health, dental and disability bills monthly and allocate expense.
• – Review and reconcile all flexible spending account information.
• – Works closely with Human Resources and Accounting on all payroll related issues

 • Maintain Accounts Payable function including:

• – Review approved Accounts Payable invoices received for accuracy, including account coding.
• – Process invoices through accounts payable system and for payment through cash disbursement system including EFTs, bank drafts and paper checks.
• – Monitor recurring monthly invoices for payment and approval.
• – Maintain vendor filing system ensuring proper document is maintained for all payments and approvals.
• – Maintain contract and proposal files, and match invoices to pre-approved contracts and proposals.
• – Process employee expense reimbursements; monitor for irregularities and errors.
• – Review credit card purchases for approvals and coding accuracy, process through AP system.
• – Analyze invoices and make recommendations for cost savings and improvements.

• Assist with recording and reconciliation of all Daily Sales activity including:

• – Sales activity reported by Galaxy POS. Work with Director of Visitor Experience to ensure that all ticket types and promotions are set up correctly to ensure the ability to track and record where needed.   
• – Monitor policies and procedures for daily handling and reporting of cash and credit card receipts and update as needed. Ensure that systems are maintained to segregate and account for all cash received. Audit the daily processes on a regular basis to ensure continued compliance with approved procedures. Assist Director of Visitor Experience with establishment of any new policies and procedures that become necessary as changes are made.
• – Monitor all credit card activity, review monthly fee reporting and record in General Ledger.
• – Set up scholarships received via donations or grants in Galaxy; monitor and report usage of scholarships on a monthly basis.

• Calculate, record and pay quarterly sales tax.
• Reconcile all Earned Revenue and Deferred Revenue accounts.
• Monitor and reconcile all electronic deposits into the checking account. 
• Prepare and process daily check deposits.
• Prepare and post various journal entries.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education, Experience and Skills
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting.
• Two years of accounting experience required; payroll processing experience required.
• Experience with POS system and ADP Work Force Now preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, detail oriented, self-starter, energetic.
• Strict confidentiality a must.

The Museum of the American Revolution (www.AmRevMuseum.org) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To apply, please send a cover letter including a resume to employment@amrevmuseum.org.