Position Title: Manager of Public Programs
Reports To: Chief Marketing Officer
FLSA Status: Full-time, Exempt
Location: Hybrid, Baltimore
About Us: The B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore, MD, the recognized birthplace of American railroading, is a national historic landmark, a Smithsonian Affiliate, and a National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Site. We are a destination that receives visitors from all 50 states and 40 countries. As one of the world’s most significant railroad museums, we offer engaging experiences that connect visitors to the rich story of America through the lens of the railroad.
We’re in a dynamic phase of growth, striving to be Fun, Interactive, Relevant, and Experiential (F.I.R.E.). Exciting times are ahead as we plan national and local celebrations for the American railroads’ 200th anniversary in 2027! Beyond preparing for the Bicentennial celebration nationally and locally, we also offer innovative programs such as a workforce development skilled trades and learn program, a robust sensory educational program, and an ever-expanding list of educational offerings including a new Innovation Hall planned for 2027.
Position Summary
The B&O Railroad Museum seeks an organized, creative, and detail-oriented Manager of Public Programs to plan, coordinate, and help execute a wide range of Museum events spanning from the large-scale production of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride to Museum lecture series to musical concerts. We strive to offer fun, educational programming for everyone. This position plays a vital role in ensuring the Museum delivers exceptional experiences for guests through both ticketed signature events and smaller programs throughout the year. The Manager of Public Programs will also collaborate closely with the Curatorial Department and other Museum teams to support and execute mission-driven programs and special initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Program Planning & Execution
- Conceptualize, develop, plan, and manage logistics for a robust calendar of Museum events, ranging from large-scale annual programs (e.g., THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, Day out With Thomas™) to smaller community and family programs; we average one event a week.
- Coordinate all event details including scheduling, selection of vendors and management, staffing, ticketing, security, permits, and equipment needs.
- Ensure high standards of visitor service and safety at all events.
- Serve as on-site manager during events, overseeing set-up, execution, and breakdown. Serve as staff for smaller events. Evening and weekend work expected; the Museum is open 7 days a week with the majority of events occurring on the weekends.
- Work with volunteer coordinator to staff public programs.
Collaboration & Support
- Actively identify and engage community partners; participate as the Museum’s representative at City events, such as Artscape.
- Partner with the Curatorial and Education Departments on programs and events, ensuring seamless visitor experience.
- Work with Marketing to promote events, develop collateral, and track attendance.
- Serve on the Museum’s operations team ensuring all staff are informed of event needs and logistics.
Administration & Evaluation
- Lead weekly programming committee meeting.
- Manage event budgets, track expenses, and process vendor invoices.
- Maintain event calendars and documentation for institutional history and planning efficiency.
- Manage ticketing of events and track attendance at events.
- Analyze feedback collected by marketing to improve future programming.
- Ensure compliance with Museum policies, safety regulations, and accessibility standards.
- Continuously improve internal systems for programming planning.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Museum Studies, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
- 3-5 years of event planning/management experience, preferably in a Museum, cultural institution, or nonprofit environment.
- Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, using excel and other organizational tools.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable working with staff, volunteers, vendors, and the public.
- Ability to problem-solve and remain calm under pressure in fast-paced situations.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the Museum’s event calendar.
Preferred Skills
- Experience with ticketing systems and event software.
- Knowledge of Baltimore’s vendor and event services landscape.
- Familiarity with best practices in accessibility and inclusive programming.
- Familiarity with soliciting sponsors and donations.
Compensation
- Compensation: $45,000-$60,000 annually, commensurate with experience.
- Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance; 3% retirement contribution after one year; flexible schedule; PTO and more!
- Parking: FREE on-site, secure parking
To Apply
- If you are someone who is organized, creative, fun, and enjoys program planning and scaling events for a variety of target audiences, this is the job for you!
- Please email a cover letter and resume to hr3@borail.org by September 15 for priority consideration.