Job Description

Giiwedinong Museum and Cultural Center of the North has an exciting opportunity for an Museum Director.

About Giiwedinong

Established in 2023, Giiwedinong Museum and Cultural Center of the North is the first independently governed Native Museum in Minnesota. Located in Park Rapids, the museum focuses on treaty rights, environmental justice, and cultural heritage with a commitment to fostering dialogue and education on critical issues at the intersection of indigenous peoples, the environment, public policy, and fossil fuel economies.

About this position

The Museum Director leads the development and delivery of dynamic exhibits, educational programming, and cultural events that reflect and respect Anishinaabe and Ojibwe histories, values, and treaty relationships. This role oversees daily museum operations, supervises staff and volunteers, and collaborates closely with tribal communities to ensure culturally grounded and engaging public experiences. The Museum Director Reports to the Executive Director.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead museum operations, staff, and volunteers; implement policies and manage day-to-day activities.
• Oversee 20+ community programs, educational presentations, and exhibits—especially those rooted in Ojibwe culture and history.
• Develop internal evaluation processes and ensure cultural accuracy and program effectiveness.
• Collaborate with staff on promotional materials and social media content.
• Build partnerships with schools, tribal and civic leaders, and community stakeholders.
• Support fundraising efforts, including grant writing, sponsorship outreach, and media engagement.
• Help maintain museum store operations and coverage as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, Native American history, nonprofit leadership, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 2+ years of museum, event, or nonprofit leadership experience.
• 2+ years in fundraising, grant writing, or budget management.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deliver community-centered events.
• Deep cultural knowledge of Anishinaabe and Ojibwe communities, including treaty rights and governance in Minnesota and the Dakotas.
• Strong community organizing skills and familiarity with Indigenous cultural protocols.
• Excellent verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills.
• Experience with social media, budgeting, and digital tools (Google Suite, Microsoft Office).
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and at powwows or special events.

Don’t meet every single requirement?

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. Giiwidenong believes the best candidate for the job may not always fit a traditional profile or check every box in the job description.

If you’re passionate about our mission and think you have the skills and experience to thrive in this role - even if your background is a little different - we strongly encourage you to apply. We welcome a broad range of experiences and may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet the qualifications.

How to apply

To apply for this position, please send a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to jobs@giiwedinong.org. This position will remain open until filled and we will meet with qualified candidates as their applications are received.

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