Overview
Interactive Exhibits Technician Jobs in Johnson City, TX at Science Mill
Interactive Exhibits Technician
The Science Mill | Johnson City, TX
Full-Time | Nonprofit STEM Science Museum
About The Science Mill
The Science Mill is a nonprofit STEM science museum dedicated to inspiring curiosity, creativity, and learning through hands-on, interactive exhibits. We serve learners of all ages and backgrounds, connecting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to everyday life through engaging experiences.
Position Overview
The mission of the Exhibits and Maintenance Team at the Science Mill is to optimize the visitor experience and preserve the quality and reliability of exhibits. The Exhibits Coordinator/Technician is responsible for the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and continual improvement of the Science Mill’s interactive exhibits, including mechanical, electronic, and software-driven exhibits. This role blends technical troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and direct guest engagement. The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem solver who enjoys troubleshooting systems, learning new technologies, and explaining how things work to the public.
Training and onboarding are provided.
Key ResponsibilitiesExhibit Operations & Maintenance
· Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair interactive exhibits, ensuring they are fully operational, safe, and engaging, including mechanical, electronic, and aesthetic components.
· Follow and promote a safety-first approach to exhibit maintenance, facility operations, and workshop activities.
· Conduct daily walkthroughs to test exhibits and components, assess priorities, and address issues promptly and effectively.
· Upload, manage, and update exhibit software and firmware as needed.
· Create, maintain, and execute preventative maintenance schedules to anticipate service needs and reduce downtime.
· Assist with the design, fabrication, testing, installation, dismantling, and development of new or existing exhibits.
· Maintain exhibit inventories, tools, equipment, and workshop spaces.
· Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and suppliers on exhibit components, repairs, equipment, materials, purchasing, procurement, inventory management, cost tracking, and specialized services.
· Partner with the Living Systems Coordinator with exhibit-related care, maintenance, and operational needs.
· Proactively identify and address small changes before they become larger issues.
· Maintain a consistently high-quality guest experience through reliable exhibit performance.
· Escalate major or complex issues to senior staff when appropriate.
Guest Engagement & Education
· Actively engage with visitors on the exhibit floor.
· Demonstrate exhibits and systems, explaining how they work and why they matter.
· Support learning beyond scripted Explainer Guides by answering questions and adapting explanations for different audiences.
· Serve as a visible, approachable representative of the Science Mill’s mission.
Required Skills & Qualifications
· High school diploma or equivalent; college coursework or vocational training is a plus.
· Technical training, trade certification, or related experience demonstrating strong mechanical and technical aptitude.
· Hands-on repair experience in exhibit maintenance, electronics, mechanics, fabrication, facilities maintenance, or related technical fields, with attention to detail and craftsmanship.
· Software proficiency, including the ability to upload, manage, and update exhibit software.
· Experience with microcontrollers, electronics, and circuitry.
· Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
· Familiarity with maintenance planning and scheduling systems.
· Experience using hand tools, power tools, and common maintenance equipment.
· Ability to read and interpret technical diagrams, schematics, manuals, and plans.
· Ability to work independently while collaborating as part of a team.
· Observant and detail-oriented, with a focus on safety and reliability.
· Comfortable working in a public, visitor-facing environment.
· Comfortable working on ladders and lifting objects up to 40 pounds.
· Access to a vehicle for reimbursed errands.
Desired Traits
- Strong organization, communication and teamwork skills.
· Self-starter who takes initiative and ownership.
· Natural explainer who enjoys helping others understand systems.
· Reliable, consistent, and resourceful.
· Curious and always learning, with an interest in technology of all kinds.
· Enjoys troubleshooting systems and solving practical, real-world problems.
Bonus Qualifications (Preferred)
· Experience in a museum, science center, makerspace, exhibit, or educational environment.
· Experience with procurement, purchasing, supplier relationships, or vendor management.
· Familiarity with automation and control systems.
Work Environment
· Full-time position. Work is performed on-site in Johnson City, Texas. Team members are expected to collaborate closely in a dynamic nonprofit environment.
· Blend of hands-on exhibit maintenance and public interaction.
· Active, problem-solving environment that requires flexibility and curiosity.
· Flexibility to work weekends or evenings for special events or emergencies.
Compensation: $40,000 – $50,000, or commensurate with experience
To apply: Send Letter of Interest and Resume to [email protected]
The Science Mill is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
Pay: $40,000.00 – $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Title: Interactive Exhibits Technician
Company: Science Mill
Location: Johnson City, TX
Category:
