Associate Interpretation Specialist

Getty is committed to creating a welcoming workplace that reflects the various backgrounds of the communities we serve. We value differences in the pursuit of inquiry and knowledge, mutual understanding, respect, trust, transparency, and cooperation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Job Summary

Our Mission

The J. Paul Getty Museum seeks to inspire curiosity about, and enjoyment and understanding of, the visual arts by collecting, conserving, exhibiting, and interpreting works of art of outstanding quality and historical importance. The Museum is one of four programs of the J. Paul Getty Trust. The Museum operates at two sites: the Getty Villa in Malibu, which exhibits its collection of Greek, Etruscan, and Roman antiquities; and the Getty Center in Brentwood, which displays its collections of predominantly European, pre-twentieth-century art (paintings, drawings, illuminated manuscripts, sculpture, and decorative arts) and international photography to the present day. The Museum mounts approximately 25 temporary exhibitions a year across its two sites, continually updates and maintains its permanent-collection galleries, and offers wide-ranging and ambitious programming for its visitors.

The Opportunity

The J. Paul Getty Museum seeks an Associate Interpretation Specialist in the Interpretive Content Department. Reporting to the Interpretation Specialist, this position is responsible for: representing audience needs and DEAI goals related to exhibitions and permanent installations; reviewing exhibition proposals and didactic texts; contributing to exhibition content briefs and outlines providing input on the hierarchy and structure of in-gallery interpretive materials and strategies, including how content is communicated to audiences; and supporting the creation and refinement of in-gallery didactic material and interactive spaces tailored to  specific audiences, in collaboration with relevant teams, as needed. The Interpretation specialist is a part of a team of museum staff that helps shape exhibitions, installations, and displays to meet audience, content, and curatorial goals. 

Major Job Responsibilities

• As a core member of the project team, and in partnership with the curatorial lead contributes to the development of the in-gallery exhibition experience by shaping the development of narrative structures, suggesting approach in regards to contextual information, identifying potential audience barriers and assisting in shaping the interpretive framework in alignment with project goals.
• Liaises with internal stakeholders, including Curatorial, Conservation, Design, and Education staff, as projects or needs arise.
• Represents DEAI and audience needs and goals throughout the exhibition development process and across museum collection areas; Is an advocate for audience(s); strives to create a positive, inclusive experience for all
• Contributes to exhibition brief and didactic outlines which identify key messages and objects, text and didactic panels as well as scope for digital media and other interpretive modalities
• Advises and makes recommendations regarding strategies and tools which will advance the interpretive goals
• Reviews hierarchy, structure, and content of interpretive materials in relation to the interpretive goals and Getty accepted interpretive guidelines
• May spearhead didactic sections of exhibitions/installations/rotations
• May develop in-gallery didactic materials and interactive spaces for specific audiences
• Provides audience- and community-related data and expertise throughout the development process
• Review, assist, and provide feedback (as needed) on exhibition/installation proposals

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in a related field is required
• 3+ years of experience in a museum, arts related environment, and/or community or outreach environment
• Project management experience
• Research, writing, analysis, and presentation skills
• Strong administrative skills, including calendar management, document preparation, and coordination of meetings and communications.
• Foreign language skills preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Proven experience in negotiating creative solutions and to build consensus among stakeholders
• Knowledge of DEAI policies and best practices 
• Knowledge of curatorial, education, and museum practices
• Advanced knowledge of art and art history, audiences, and communities
• Excellent organizational, research, and writing skills
• Ability to manage simultaneous projects in a fast-paced work environment
• Must communicate effectively: exceptional interpersonal skills, diplomacy, judgment, and discretion
• In‐depth knowledge of the collecting areas of the J. Paul Getty Museum

Benefits and Perks

Here are just some examples that Getty offers/provides for full-time employees:

• Medical, Dental and Vision insurance coverage, starting on date of hire. Getty pays 75%-95% of the premium, depending on the plan selected.
• 403(b) Employee Investment retirement plan – with up to 5% Getty Match
• Getty contribution of 6%, on behalf of employee, to 401(a) retirement account
• Educational Assistance and professional development
• Paid Vacation, Sick and Personal Days
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Many positions have bi-weekly Off-Fridays
• On-Site Fitness Center at Getty Center
• Community service opportunities

To learn more about our comprehensive benefits and long list of perks, go to Getty HR.