Communications and Community Programs Coordinator

Part-time non-exempt position with year-round average of  20 hours per week at $25/hour beginning spring 2026.

Overview

Join our dedicated and creative team of staff and volunteers at the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center, where we work together to foster an appreciation for Lakeshore history, culture, and the arts. This position offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a grassroots, community-focused organization with a commitment to excellence in public history, education, and cultural engagement.

The Communications and Community Programs Coordinator plays a vital role in promoting the museum’s mission, programs, and community engagement efforts. This position involves writing and editing a variety of communication materials, creating marketing media, managing content on digital platforms, and supporting the museum’s visibility and outreach initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess strong written and visual communication skills and a passion for museums, arts, humanities, and nonprofit organizations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Content Creation & Communication
    • Write and edit press releases, newsletters, and email campaigns to promote museum programs and events.
    • Create compelling written and visual content for the museum’s website and social media channels.
    • Regularly update and manage content on the museum’s WordPress website.
  • Graphic Design & Visual Communication
    • Design graphics and images to support marketing efforts both in print and online, using tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or other relevant platforms.
    • Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure all communications align with the museum’s branding and messaging.
  • Social Media & Digital Presence
    • Develop and schedule social media posts across SDHC platforms (Facebook, Instagram and YouTube) to engage audiences and promote museum events and programs.
    • Monitor social media platforms and interact with followers, responding to inquiries and maintaining engagement with support from staff/volunteers.
  • Community Engagement & Event Coordination::
    • Coordinate event planning at History Center and off-site with community partners.
    • Assist event and programming committees with publicity, ensuring events are well-publicized in both local and online communities.
    • Participate in meetings with History Center committees, community partners, and other stakeholders to promote the museum’s presence and mission.
  • Collaborative & Strategic Support:
    • Participate in strategy meetings to align communication efforts with the museum’s current goals and the Strategic Plan.
    • Work closely with museum staff and committee members to understand and communicate the museum’s mission, values, and key programs.
    • Develop comprehensive understanding of the museum’s mission, values, and current strategic plan, and work to effectively communicate this to the community and key stakeholders.

Required Skills & Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree and demonstrated course experience in writing, visual communications, marketing, journalism,  history, fine arts, or related fields.
  • Strong written and visual communication skills with experience in crafting press releases, newsletters, and social media content.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, WordPress, and email marketing platforms (Constant Contact).
  • Experience with graphic design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite or Canva.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
  • Self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaborate with team members.
  • Excellent customer service skills, with a positive and engaging approach to working with the public and diverse group of staff and volunteers.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Interest in museums, arts, humanities, or nonprofit organizations, with a passion for community outreach.
  • Experience in digital marketing, social media management, and content creation.
  • Knowledge or experience in museum programming, history, and practices.

Additional Requirements

This is a hybrid position with remote and scheduled in-person work on site in Douglas, Michigan. Ability to work flexible hours, including some weekends and evenings, with advanced scheduling for events and programming.

To apply, please send an introductory email, resume, and list of three references to Eric Gollannek, executive director, at [email protected]. Please also include a writing sample and a selection of  relevant communications/marketing/public relations work