Exhibits Technician (Garment & Artifact Focus) - Dolly's Life of Many Colors Museum

Dolly's Life of Many Colors Museum

Exhibits Technician (Garment & Artifact Focus) - Dolly's Life of Many Colors Museum

Nashville, TN
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    About the Museum

    Located in downtown Nashville inside Dolly Parton's SongTeller Hotel, Dolly's Life of Many Colors Museum celebrates the extraordinary story of Dolly Parton—her music, films, philanthropy, and the values that shaped her life.

    The museum features a curated selection of artifacts from Dolly's extensive archive—including iconic garments, wigs, and personal items—presented within thoughtfully designed exhibit environments. These objects are displayed alongside immersive media and custom-built elements that create a rich, story-driven guest experience.

    Position Summary

    The Exhibits Technician (Garment & Artifact Focus) performs all core responsibilities of the Exhibits Technician role while also supporting the care, monitoring, and presentation of archival garments, textiles, and costume pieces throughout the museum.

    This role is suited to someone who is comfortable working across both technical systems and delicate, material-based work. In addition to operating exhibit systems, this technician helps ensure garments and artifacts are consistently presented with care and attention to detail.

    Through daily system checks, troubleshooting, and ongoing exhibit care, this role helps maintain both the technical performance of the museum and the quality of the collection on display. The technician works closely with Dolly's Archive team, escalating concerns and following established care and handling practices.

    What You'll Do

    Exhibit Systems Operation & Troubleshooting

    • Operate and monitor audiovisual systems, including projection, audio, lighting, and media playback
    • Perform daily startup, shutdown, and opening/closing checks across exhibit areas
    • Ensure all exhibit and show elements function as intended throughout operating hours
    • Monitor system performance and respond promptly to issues
    • Diagnose and resolve technical issues with AV systems, interactive exhibits, and control systems
    • Escalate complex issues as needed

    Maintenance & Physical Upkeep

    • Perform routine maintenance to support system reliability and exhibit presentation
    • Complete minor repairs and adjustments to keep exhibits operational
    • Maintain cleanliness, functionality, and visual consistency across exhibit spaces
    • Use appropriate care methods when working with specialty materials and finishes

    Garment & Artifact Care

    • Perform regular checks of artifacts on display, with attention to positioning, condition, and presentation
    • Monitor environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, light exposure) and flag concerns
    • Recognize and escalate issues based on established guidelines
    • Perform basic, approved adjustments to support stable exhibit conditions
    • Maintain awareness of changes in artifact condition or presentation over time
    • Support the care and handling of garments, textiles, and specialty items following established guidelines

    System Support & Monitoring

    • Support the ongoing care and operation of exhibit systems following established standards and training
    • Monitor system health and identify potential issues early
    • Maintain tools, equipment, and technical spaces in an organized and safe manner
    • Keep clear, accurate logs of issues, repairs, and system performance

    Coordination & Communication

    • Work closely with Dolly's Archive team on artifact care and any concerns
    • Escalate issues related to artifacts or exhibit conditions promptly
    • Communicate clearly with team members, partners, and leadership

    Ideal Candidate

    • Comfortable troubleshooting technical systems while also working carefully with garments and delicate materials
    • Highly detail-oriented, observant, and proactive
    • Takes pride in maintaining both technical performance and visual presentation
    • Works calmly and thoughtfully in a guest-facing environment
    • Communicates clearly and collaborates well with others

    Qualifications

    • Experience supporting AV systems, multimedia environments, or technical operations preferred
    • Experience working with garments, textiles, costume work, visual merchandising, museum collections, or similar hands-on environments strongly preferred
    • Strong attention to detail and ability to notice subtle changes in condition or presentation
    • Basic understanding of equipment handling and safe work practices
    • Physically able to lift up to 40–50 lbs and remain on your feet for extended periods
    • Availability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays

    Why Join Us

    This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of technology and object care—supporting both the systems that bring the museum to life and the garments and artifacts that tell Dolly's story. You'll play a meaningful part in maintaining a one-of-a-kind environment, ensuring each piece is thoughtfully cared for and each guest experience feels seamless, engaging, and memorable.