Collections & Interpretation Coordinator | Waco, TX

Position Title: Collections & Interpretation Coordinator

Location: 810 S 4th St., Waco, Texas

Duration: Full-Time

Reports To: Executive Director

About Us:

Historic Waco (HW) is a volunteer driven organization dedicated to being the storytellers of Waco’s history through the preservation of our historic houses. The foundation was established in 1967, through the merger and incorporation of three common interest groups: the Heritage Society, the Society for Historic Preservation, and the Duncan Foundation. Today, our three historic houses serve an opportunity to preserve Waco's heritage and history, educate the public, and inspire the community. Throughout the year, we offer house tours, as well as field trips for school groups, our Traveling Trunk program, special events, and rentals.

Mission:

The mission of Historic Waco is to preserve the heritage of Waco and McLennan County, Texas for future generations and to present enriching diverse historical experiences for audiences of all ages.

Position Overview:

The Collections & Interpretation Coordinator plays a key role in the stewardship, evaluation, and presentation of Historic Waco’s historic house museum collections. This position is responsible for assessing the condition and relevance of collection items, guiding deaccession decisions, and leading efforts to reinterpret exhibit spaces in ways that engage contemporary audiences. The role also supports broader organizational initiatives, including public programming and digital outreach.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of historic house museum collections, including condition, significance, and relevance to institutional mission
• Identify key artifacts and furnishings that best support interpretive goals
• Develop and recommend plans for deaccessioning items in accordance with professional standards and institutional policies
• Lead the reinterpretation and redesign of exhibit spaces within historic house museums to enhance visitor engagement and storytelling
• Collaborate with staff and stakeholders to ensure exhibits reflect current research and inclusive perspectives
• Prepare reports for the monthly Collections Committee meetings.
• Assist with planning and execution of public programs, events, and educational initiatives
• Manage and contribute to social media and digital content to promote exhibits, programs, and institutional activities
• Maintain accurate collections records and documentation
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies, Public History, History, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)
• Experience working with museum collections, preferably in a historic house setting
• Knowledge of collections management practices, including cataloging, preservation, and deaccessioning standards
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement interpretive plans and exhibit concepts
• Strong organizational, research, and communication skills
• Experience with event planning and/or public programming preferred
• Familiarity with social media platforms and digital engagement strategies
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Work Environment:

This position operates in a historic house museum setting and may involve physical activity such as lifting, moving objects, and navigating historic structures and stairs.

Compensation:

Starting salary has a range of $40,000 – $45,000. At this time, Historic Waco does not provide any benefits.

Starting Date:

Negotiable

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Erik Swanson (erik.swanson@historicwaco.org). Applications are rolling and will be considered in the order they appear.