The Collections and Exhibits Coordinator for the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum will support the preservation, management, and interpretation of museum collections while contributing to the design, development, and installation of exhibits. Centered on the history of the Mackinaw, a former United States Coast Guard vessel, this role will ensure exhibits and collections are maintained according to professional museum standards. Participants will gain experience in research, interpretive writing, artifact selection, and environmental monitoring to support engaging and historically accurate visitor experiences.The Museum will host SkillBridge participants for flexible durations of 30 to 180 days. Participants will support collections care and exhibition projects and will complete at least one major initiative tailored to their time in the program, contributing to the preservation and presentation of maritime history through collections and exhibits work.The Collections and Exhibits Coordinator role will include a degree of flexibility, and the Museum will actively collaborate with prospective candidates to align responsibilities and projects with individual career transition goals whenever possible. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, and collaborative, with an interest in museum collections, preservation, and exhibit development, along with strong research and communication skills.

The Collections and Exhibits Coordinator Position at the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum is designed as a direct career pathway for servicemembers transitioning out of the military. While the museum does not currently maintain open full-time positions, this role reflects the competencies developed through the program and is supported through strong regional partnerships, including integration with four local Chambers of Commerce and extensive employer networks throughout Northern Michigan. This position is supported by a strong career placement system that includes structured workforce transition assistance, resume and interview preparation, direct employer introductions, veteran resources, and networking opportunities through regional Chambers of Commerce and partner organizations across Northern Michigan. Participants benefit from established relationships with museums, tourism boards, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations, ensuring strong pathways into full-time employment upon completion of the program.

Working on a historic vessel requires certain physical abilities. Please consider the following:-Stair Mobility: You must be able to safely traverse many levels of steep indoor and outdoor stairways and ladders throughout the ship.-Endurance: The ability to stand or sit for long periods of time during the day.-Movement: Occasional stretching, bending, and lifting/carrying of light retail items (such as boxes of merchandise).-Weather Tolerance: You must be able to work comfortably in varied outdoor weather conditions.