Museum Educator

Position Overview

The Whitney Museum of American Art is looking for a full-time Museum Educator to facilitate K–12 educational programs and develop training and resources for New York City teachers and freelance educators. This role engages students by connecting them with the museum's collection and exhibitions, encouraging them to explore artists as observers, storytellers, experimenters, and critics of American culture. Programs emphasize inquiry-based learning, inclusivity, and multiple perspectives.

Role Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate inquiry-based Guided Visits in person and virtually for K–12 groups using discussion, detailed observation, and interactive methods.
• Conduct at least eight guided visits monthly, with flexibility for additional sessions when required.
• Create and deliver combined gallery tours and studio workshops integrating thematic tours with hands-on art-making experiences.
• Serve as Lead Educator for newly established school partnerships.
• Design engaging, curriculum-aligned lesson plans suitable for diverse learners including students with disabilities.
• Collaborate closely with teachers to ensure museum activities support classroom learning objectives.
• Work with School and Group Services staff and colleagues to maintain high program quality.
• Occasionally lead lecture-style tours aimed at adult visitors.
• Co-lead professional development workshops for NYC teachers, promoting inquiry-based pedagogies and interdisciplinary learning.
• Support and train freelance museum educators, including conducting trainings thrice annually.
• Help train Whitney Education staff.
• Develop innovative, clear lesson plans and teaching materials for both gallery and studio settings.
• Create and update comprehensive and accessible teacher resources for pre-visit, in-gallery, and post-visit use.
• Produce at least two digital resource guides linked to exhibitions each year.
• Participate in ongoing evaluation and improvement of educational programs.
• Research upcoming exhibitions to prepare educational materials and training files.
• Maintain effective communication with supervisors regarding program status, student engagement, and supply needs.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive environment across the Education department.
• Engage regularly in reflective teaching aligned with the Whitney’s educational philosophy.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor's, Master's, or MFA degree in Art History, Contemporary Art, American Studies, Museum Education, or a related field.
• Minimum of three years’ teaching experience with K-12 students and teachers.
• Strong organizational and communication abilities.
• Sound understanding of educational and developmental theories.
• Passion for modern and contemporary art.
• Ability to collaborate flexibly within teams.
• Interest in engaging diverse student populations.
• Availability Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional weekends or evenings as needed.
• Bilingual candidates are preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary of $71,000.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• 403(B) retirement plan eligibility.
• Generous paid time off.
• Commuter benefits including parking and mass transit support.
• Access to renowned museums nationally and within the city.
• Additional perks such as pet insurance and discounted Citibike membership.

Additional Information

The Whitney Museum values diversity and inclusion and encourages applicants from varied backgrounds. Candidates new to arts administration, returning after employment gaps, or seeking career transitions are invited to apply. Applications should include a cover letter expressing interest in arts and culture and the unique contributions the applicant hopes to bring to the role.

About The Whitney

Founded in 1930 by artist and philanthropist Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, the Whitney Museum of American Art houses a premier collection of 20th and 21st-century American art. The museum’s mission centers on acquiring, preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting contemporary American art while serving diverse audiences and celebrating the complexity of U.S. culture. The Whitney continues to play a vital role in defining innovation in American art.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Whitney Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to hiring and promoting individuals solely based on their qualifications. The institution prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, sex, religion, race, color, creed, national origin, citizenship, disability status, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, arrest or conviction record as allowed by law, or any other legally protected factors.