hsd are seeking an Interpretative Assistant to support our UK Interpretation Department on live projects and new business opportunities. In this dynamic role you will be part of a team that transforms stories and collections into engaging visitor experiences. The tasks are varied and input into each design stage, including defining the narrative framework, crafting the visitor experience, co-ordination of content assets, text writing, image acquisition, artefact selection, and digital media storyboarding. As part of the role you will also have the opportunity to assist our growing heritage consultancy department, including supporting facilitation of co-curation and consultation sessions, and developing engagement programmes.
The position will be based at our UK office located in Leicester City Centre, with the opportunity to travel subject to project requirements.
Working Relationships
The post of Interpretative Assistant is directly responsible to the UK Interpretation Department. The post holder is expected to work with graphic/3D designers and project managers from all other hsd departments, plus external stakeholders and consultants as required by specific projects.
Main Responsibilities
- Research and prepare content for interpretative strategies and workshops, including narratives and audience profiles.
- Content coordination during project delivery, including managing object lists, reference material, image lists, image procurement and tracking of final exhibit text.
- Contribute to collaborative development of visitor experiences through minute-taking and participation in internal meetings and client workshops.
- Support drafting and editing of exhibition copy through subject research, proofreading and liaison with copywriters and translators.
- Support development of briefs for audio-visual and tactile exhibits through content research and media benchmarking.
- Research current trends in interpretation, digital media, curatorial approaches and museum studies, and present back to the interpretation and business development teams.
- Assist the work of the heritage consultancy team by supporting on planning and facilitating consultation and co-curation events, and developing targeted audience engagement proposals.
- Adhere to procedures relating to the proper use and care of equipment and materials for which the role has responsibility.
Person Specification
Essential
- A relevant degree qualification in humanities or design.
- A keen interest in and awareness of the museum and visitor experience sector, including the latest interpretation methodologies, digital media technologies, audience development and accessibility techniques.
- An ability to present written content and interpretative proposals in an engaging, concise and accurate way, with excellent attention to detail.
- Excellent oral communication and presentation skills.
- Outstanding content research skills, particularly in relation to historical resources and image archives.
- Excellent organizational skills, including awareness of deadlines and budgets, and proactive management of tasks across multiple projects.
- A quick learner and confident team-player, taking initiative when working on the behalf of others.
- Be willing to use standardised hsd resources and become familiar with internal filing systems and project processes.
- The post holder should have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint).
- A willingness to travel.
Desirable
- Experience working within the museum, heritage or cultural sector, particularly in interpretation, research, audience engagement or project management.
- Office/studio experience.
- Experience using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat).
- Degree qualification in Museum Studies, or similar.
To Apply
Please send your CV and covering letter outlining your interest and suitability for the position to opportunities@haleysharpe.com
