Description
Jefferson County sits at the confluence of Appalachian and American history, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange, agricultural tradition, and civic life. George Washington surveyed this land and his family’s homes still stand as touchstones of early America. Harpers Ferry remains at the center of the story of John Brown’s raid; Charles Town witnessed not one but two treason trials that shaped the course of our nation; Shepherdstown is known for its early milling industry, river commerce, and a long tradition of arts and learning. All of this history unfolds against a backdrop of rolling farmland, river valleys, and Blue Ridge vistas that continue to inspire. It’s a place where history isn’t just the past—it’s visible in every direction. History lives here.
Jefferson County’s historic architecture, rich archival record, and enduring sense of place offer a meaningful backdrop for the Jefferson County Museum’s commitment to preservation, education, and public engagement.
For more than 60 years, the Museum has acquired, preserved, and shared an extraordinary array of over 9,000 artifacts and documents that illuminate the county’s rich history. Its work is strengthened by a special collection which include more than 5,000 volumes focused on the history of Jefferson County and the Shenandoah Valley.
The Jefferson County Museum is part of a larger organization , the Old Charles Town Library, Inc. (OCTL), a nonprofit organization[DP1] located in historic Charles Town, West Virginia, which supports both the Jefferson County Museum and the Charles Town Library, bringing together history, culture, and information resources to enrich a diverse community of residents and visitors.
The Museum Director will collaborate closely with volunteers, staff, the OCTL Executive Director, and the Board to oversee all aspects of museum operations, including exhibitions, education, outreach, fundraising, marketing, collections care, recordkeeping, reporting, and the recruitment and training of staff and volunteers. Ideal candidates will bring broad knowledge of museum practice; curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning; and strong organizational, communication, and recordkeeping skills.
OCTL is currently exploring the possibility of a future move to the historic Jefferson County Courthouse—a potential transition that offers the next Director a rare opportunity to help shape a new chapter for the institution.
Requirements
A master’s degree in museum studies, history, public history, or other cognate field. Two years of experience working in a museum or other equivalent experience, preferred.
EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES
Experience with museum operations, exhibit design and collections management
Experience in the day-to-day management of a museum
Knowledge of museum ethics, standards, and professional practice
Familiarity with collections management software
Experience or willingness to learn collections inventory
Experience with fundraising, grant-writing, and familiarity with donation software
Knowledge of Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms
Volunteer recruitment and retention
Ability to plan, execute, and market events aimed at various age groups and audiences
Effective communication and writing skills
Knowledge of Jefferson County, WV, history (not required, but a definite plus)
Ability to complete research and academically-focused work
Ability to create and maintain partnerships with other local history, tourism, cultural, governmental, and educational organizations
Strong public service orientation; ability to work with the public in a consistently friendly and courteous manner
Ability to juggle varied and wide-ranging duties and a mind attuned to details
JOB DUTIES
Serve as the primary steward of the Museum’s artifacts and archives, overseeing acquisitions, processing, accessioning and deaccessioning, loans, collections care, storage, environmental monitoring, pest management, and disaster planning. Ensure all objects are well documented, properly classified, and accessible to researchers.
Advance conservation and digitization initiatives, and develop digital or audiovisual resources that broaden public access and enhance exhibitions.
Respond to research and information requests, and conduct historical research related to the county and the Museum’s collections.
Develop exhibitions and associated programs, including special events, educational materials, and curriculumaligned field trips that connect students with local history.
Build and sustain relationships with diverse communities and stakeholders to ensure exhibits and programming are accessible, inclusive, and representative.
Maintain the Museum’s website and social media presence, ensuring timely and engaging communication.
Maintain accurate records of admissions, donations, museum services, and research requests.
Provide quarterly reports to the Executive Director and Board of Trustees.
Participate in professional development, including workshops, trainings, and local history conferences.
Coordinate early planning for a potential future relocation[DP1] , including facility assessments, collections preparedness, exhibit visioning, and engagement with partners who support museum design, logistics, and community outreach. Contribute to shared outreach and fundraising efforts—across staff, board, and community partners—to build understanding and support for this possible transition.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervises museum staff and volunteers
APPLICATION PROCESS
We welcome applications from candidates at all stages of their museum careers. To apply, please send a cover letter describing your interest in the role, a résumé, and the names and contact information of three professional references to Dr. Marcella Genz, Executive Director, at octldirector@ctlibrary.org. For best consideration, please submit materials by 1 March 2026. The position will remain open until filled.
You may also apply through the AASLH job portal, but in addition to a cv, please include a cover letter discussing your interest in the position, outlining leadership experience, relevant museum skills, and interest in the museum's mission.
