The Nature Museum is a small, regional gem with indoor exhibits as well as habitats that include woods, meadows, a wildlife garden, and a small pond.  We offer a wide range of educational experiences including school programs, public programs for children and adults, special events (including our iconic Fairy House Festival), displays, and summertime outreach at the Great River Hydro and Bellows Falls Visitor Center on the nearby Connecticut River.

Voted one of the most beautiful towns in America, our home town of Grafton is friendly, small, and located in the naturally spectacular southern Vermont region.  We have over three decades of experience in environmental education and are known for bringing fun to all we do.  A recent gift of land is allowing us to add trails, additional native plantings, and a wonderful nature playscape for children.

Who Are We Looking For?

  • A leader who will take our organization to the next level, broaden our impact, and deepen our success.

  • A seasoned professional who has held senior leadership roles in natural history museums, nature centers, or similar environmental education entities.

  • A strong leader who can inspire and guide others to work together for the health and protection of our environment.

  • Someone who has little patience with the status quo, and instead embraces new challenges and opportunities.

What Are the Job Responsibilities?

  • The Executive Director provides leadership to ensure that the museum’s activities align with our mission and vision, and — to that end — effectively stewards our human, natural, and financial resources.

  • The ED leads a committed and energetic team of full and part time employees.

  • The ED ensures that our programs and events are diverse and of high quality.

  • S/he is an ambassador for The Nature Museum throughout our region and with a wide range of local organizations, championing our environmental work through all forms of communication.

  • S/he plays a central and assertive role in all of our fundraising efforts, working closely with the Board of Directors, and also guides and fosters The Nature Museum’s adherence to professional museum standards.

What Are Our Desired Qualifications?

  • A minimum of 3 years of experience in senior management positions in natural history museums, nature centers, or similar environmental education organizations.

  • Demonstrated fundraising success in all aspects of annual giving, including the cultivation and personal solicitation of donors.

  • Training and knowledge about museum/nature center operations and professional standards.

  • Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a related field; graduate degree preferred.

  • Strong interpersonal skills, team-building abilities, and demonstrated success in hiring, supervising, and retaining high-quality staff.

  • Previous successful experience working with a Board of Directors through a mutually respectful and collaborative approach.

  • Hands-on experience with the preparation, tracking, and management of annual budgets.

  • Leadership-level knowledge and experience in environmental education, conservation, and/or closely related fields.

  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.

What Does the Compensation Package Include?

  • Anticipated starting salary of $45,000 to $55,000, negotiable and depending on experience.

  • Health benefits, sick leave, and annual leave.

  • Support for professional development opportunities.

  • Highly flexible environment that promotes a strong culture of work/life balance.

  • Working with a great team amidst some of the most verdant and beautiful landscapes our country has to offer.

How To Apply

Please send a thoughtful letter of application and a detailed resume to: searchcommittee@nature-museum.org

Applications not accompanied by a meaningful cover letter will not be considered.

    If you prefer traditional mail, send materials to:

Executive Director Search

The Nature Museum

P.O. Box 38

Grafton, VT  05146