About the position

The LHS department serves the needs of local historical organizations throughout the state by providing guidance, training opportunities, loaned resources (mostly publications), etc.   The Collections Survey Assistant will assist in the development, production, distribution, data collection, and preliminary analysis of a statewide assessment of collections conservation need for an IMLS grant-funded survey.  Complete job description available upon request.

Essential knowledge, abilities, and skills

Applicants must possess a respect for historical research materials and the people working at the local level with regards to collecting, preserving, and interpreting history along with a high regard for history, the historical profession, and the mission of the Indiana Historical Society.    Applicants should also have a knowledge of history society and museum operations and management as well as a knowledge of basic collections care practices for heritage collections.  The position requires tact, diplomacy, sensitivity, and discretion, and the ability to work and communicate well with a variety of people, including volunteers and staff of local history organizations. Strong written and oral communication skills are also musts, along with experience in developing public presentations and using AV equipment.   Position requires flexibility and an ability to order tasks and follow through without close supervision as well as promptness, reliability plus the ability to meet deadlines, solve problems, and estimate costs and maintain budget. 

Qualifications

Required:	1.        BA in history, government, social sciences, museum studies or related field. 2.        Excellent keyboarding skills. 3.        Excellent working knowledge of database management (Access) and word processing software (Word). 4.        Must have automobile, valid driver's license, and willingness to travel as needed and requested by Director, Local History Services.
Preferred:	1.        Experience setting up and administering databases. 2.        Familiarity with Internet protocols and discussion groups. 3.        Familiarity with the Heritage Health Index and PastPerfect database software. 4.        At least two years experience working in the nonprofit environment, such as a museum, historical society, or public service agency.

Pay and benefits

The position is budgeted for up to 20 hours/week with a flexible schedule between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday for 16 months from May 2008 through August 2009.  Pay offered will be basted on experience and skills; lower end of pay range is around $13.50/hour.  Part-time employees are not eligible for group health and dental insurance, but are eligible to participate in voluntary benefits.  Other benefits include free parking, staff discount at History Market and café, reciprocal benefits at other cultural institutions in Indianapolis.  

How to apply

Applications will be accepted until position is filled. Please send a letter of application, resume, and the names, current addresses and telephone numbers of three references to: Susan P. Brown, Vice President, Human Resources, Indiana Historical Society, Eugene and Marilyn Glick, Indiana History Center, 450 W. Ohio Street, Indianapolis, IN  46202. Fax:  (317) 234-0076. 

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