Kentucky Folklife Program Seeks Folklife Specialist

The Kentucky Folklife Program (KFP) based within the Department of Folk Studies and Anthropology on the campus of Western Kentucky University seeks to hire a Folklife Specialist. The KFP is a statewide public folklore program established in 1989 with a mission to: document, present and conserve the diverse traditional culture and heritage of the Commonwealth.

Working under the supervision of the Director of the KFP, this individual is responsible for implementing the mission of the Kentucky Folklife Program.

Responsibilities and duties of the position will include but are not limited to the following, all with guidance from the KFP Director:

• Writing grant proposals to federal and state agencies, other non-profit organizations, and private foundations to help secure funding for programming and projects.
• Implementing existing, new and ongoing grant-funded programming and projects.
• Developing and maintaining digital archives and documentation databases.
• Enhancing and promoting the KFP by growing its social media presence.
• Working with and supporting the goals of the WKU Department of Folk Studies and Anthropology faculty.
• Mentoring folklore/folk studies students on community-based and public folklore projects.
• Disseminating information and resources on Kentucky folklife/traditional culture topics to the public, including planning a variety of community events, organizing workshops, and creating web-based KFP content.
• Managing day-to-day operations of the KFP including public correspondence, student supervision, and other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• M.A. in folklore, folk studies or a related field at the time of hiring. 
• Experience with public folklore documentation and presentation and/or coursework in one or more of the following areas: public folklore, cultural conservation, and museum techniques. 
• Proven track record in planning, organizing and prioritizing time and workload in order to meet deadlines. 
• Working knowledge of fieldwork equipment including digital audio and video recorders and microphones, as well as a readiness to learn customized software.
• Statewide travel and a valid driver’s license
• Occasional work on evenings, weekends, and outdoor events
• Must be able to lift up to twenty pounds.

Hourly Rate:  $19.78

Review of applications begins March 1.The window for receipt of applications will remain open until filled. The Kentucky Folklife Program anticipates having the Folklife Specialist begin on April 1.

Learn more and apply through the AFS Career Center and apply through WKU Human Resources.