Director of Heritage Programming

Wheeling Heritage is currently accepting resumes for the position of Director of Heritage Programming.

Mission: Our mission is to be a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling.

Vision: Wheeling’s economic future is enhanced, providing new employment opportunities and economic revitalization through preservation and utilization of the Wheeling National Heritage Area’s natural setting and historic resources.

Position Overview: The Director of Heritage Programming oversees a wide range of community-focused heritage initiatives, including public programming, arts and culture projects, storytelling and media efforts, small business and Main Street support, grant-funded initiatives, and strategic community partnerships that advance the mission and themes of the Wheeling National Heritage Area.

Minimum Requirements:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field that lends itself to public programming
• Strong project management skills and at least two years of full-time experience leading public-facing programs, events, or community engagement initiatives
• Preferred: advanced degree in a related field and/or at least two years of experience managing heritage programs

Communication and Cultural Competence

Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences across a variety of platforms and mediums.

Reasoning and Strategic Thinking

Ability to define problems, collect and analyze information, draw informed conclusions, and apply concepts from the Heritage Toolkit to guide organizational programming and strategy.

Digital Communication & Administrative Systems

Proficient in digital communication and organizational platforms including Google Workspace, Canva, email and calendar management, spreadsheets, database systems, presentation creation, and professional document design to support communication, organization, and daily operations.

Planning and Organizational Skills

Ability to prioritize, organize, delegate assignments, and manage multiple projects under minimal supervision.

Primary Responsibilities and Essential Job Duties

• Oversee and support multiple organizational initiatives, including heritage programming, community storytelling efforts, Main Street and small business support initiatives, arts and culture programming, public events, and collaborative media projects
• Develop, supervise, and support heritage programming across all organizational program areas
• Ensure programs collectively advance the themes of the Wheeling National Heritage Area
• Work collaboratively with the community to develop programming rooted in Heritage Principles and a people-first approach
• Continually evaluate and enhance current programs while developing new initiatives that respond to community needs and opportunities
• Represent Wheeling Heritage through public speaking engagements, presentations, meetings, media interviews, tours, and community events
• Provide technical assistance to small businesses to support Wheeling’s economic vitality
• Work with the Executive Director to create and implement annual program budgets
• Meet regularly with the Executive Director regarding organizational priorities and program development
• Support organizational storytelling and communications through writing, editing, proofreading, grant support, reporting, and content development for public-facing and internal materials
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Work Activities

• Organizing, planning, and prioritizing projects and initiatives
• Building and maintaining relationships with community members, businesses, artists, partners, and public agencies
• Coordinating events, programs, schedules, and collaborative initiatives
• Analyzing information and evaluating outcomes to support strategic decision-making
• Supporting team collaboration and cross-functional communication
• Managing multiple deadlines, responsibilities, and program objectives
• Utilizing digital tools and systems to support communication, scheduling, content creation, and organizational workflows
• Translating complex information into accessible public-facing communication

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Written and verbal communication
• Community engagement and relationship building
• Project and event management
• Leadership and collaboration
• Adaptability and creative thinking
• Organization and attention to detail
• Initiative and accountability
• Professionalism and integrity

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of public programming, community engagement, heritage interpretation, arts and culture initiatives, and nonprofit operations
• Understanding of local artists, creatives, and community-based initiatives throughout Wheeling and the surrounding region
• Familiarity with entrepreneurship resources and small business support systems
• Experience with budget management and resource allocation
• Strong writing, editing, proofreading, and grammar skills with the ability to create clear, engaging, and professional communications for a variety of audiences and platforms
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills, including the ability to confidently represent the organization at meetings, public programs, media appearances, tours, and community engagement events while adapting messaging to diverse audiences
• Ability to shape and communicate compelling community narratives through writing, editing, presentations, media collaboration, and public engagement
• Strong time management, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and contribute effectively in collaborative environments

Position Details

This is a full-time position with competitive salary and benefits.

Wheeling Heritage is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount at the retail shop
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule

Monday to Friday, some weekends and evenings as needed

Relocation Requirement

Ability to relocate to Wheeling, WV 26003 before starting work.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Ability to Relocate:

• Wheeling, WV 26003: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person