American Museum of Natural History is hiring: Writer/Researcher in New York

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world’s preeminent scientific and cultural institutions, and has as its mission to discover, interpret and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education and exhibition.

The Museum’s Exhibition Editorial team is seeking a full-time Writer/Researcher to research and write original interpretive text for temporary exhibitions and/or permanent halls at the Museum. Reporting to the Director of Exhibition Editorial, the Writer/Researcher works closely with both Exhibition and other Museum peers to develop this content. In some instances, the Writer/Researcher needs to meet with and interview outside experts to obtain needed information and perspectives used to shape the thematic direction of the interpretation.

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Research story ideas, including by speaking with curators and other experts at AMNH and elsewhere. Use this information to develop original ideas for exhibit displays and to develop themes and concepts for interpretive content, relying on their own judgment of which ideas will be most interesting and engaging for visitors.
• Write clear, accurate, engaging, original interpretive text that reflects the Writer/Researcher’s creativity and writing talents.
• Coordinate and work collaboratively with Exhibition peers, other departments and outside advisors, including in frequent meetings. Lead meetings related to interpretive content and advise the Exhibition team on exhibit display ideas. Share content goals of exhibitions with Museum staff (i.e., in Education, Public Programs, Communications, Global Business Development).
• Edit and proofread final text. The production of final, printer-ready labels is a complex process, requiring multiple rounds of review with curators, advisors, graphic designers and photo researchers. Lead this process, providing direction to others on the team to ensure timely project progress and the panels are well-written and error-free.

The expected salary range for the Writer/Researcher is $70,000/annual – $78,000/annual. The AMNH offers an extensive benefits package designed to meet the needs of our dedicated and diverse community.

Pay will be determined based on several factors. The hiring range for the position at commencement is based on the type of work and the scope of responsibilities. The salary and placement offered is based on a number of individualized factors, including, but not limited to, skills, knowledge, training, education, credentials, areas of specialization and depth and scope of experience.

Minimum Qualifications

• Some completed college coursework in science, liberal arts or another field relevant to the duties specified above.
• One year of writing experience (e.g., for publications/websites or communications-related fields).
• Experience working with scientists/other experts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or graduate-level degree in science, liberal arts or another related field.
• Experience writing for web/media interactives.
• Experience working in a museum setting.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods.
• Must be able to move about the Museum campus.

Category

Full-Time/Term

Total Number of Scheduled Hours Per Pay Period

70

Union Status

Union

FLSA

Exempt

Expected Salary Minimum

$70,000/annual

Expected Salary Maximum

$78,000/annual

EEO Statement

The American Museum of Natural History is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. The Museum does not discriminate with respect to employment, or admission or access to Museum facilities, programs or activities on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, marital status, partnership status, gender (including sexual harassment), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, pregnancy and lactation accommodations, alienage or citizenship status, current or former participation in the uniformed services, status as a veteran, caregiver, pre-employment marijuana testing, sexual and reproductive health decisions, salary history, national or ethnic origin, height, weight, or on account of any other basis prohibited by applicable City, State, or Federal law. Additional protections are afforded in employment based on arrest or conviction record, status as a victim of domestic violence, stalking and sex offenses, unemployment status, and credit history, in each case to the extent provided by law.

Documents Needed To Apply

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Writing Sample

Optional Documents

American Museum of Natural History
200 Central Park West
New York, NY 10024-5192
Phone: 212-769-5100

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