University of Michigan Museum of Anthropological Archaeology – Collection Manager

Res Museum Collection Manager (103316)

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted via the University of Michigan’s job posting website: http://umjobs.org/job_detail/104275/res_museum_collection_manager

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached with your resume as one file. The cover letter should summarize your specific interest in the position and outline relevant skills and experience that directly relate to this position. In addition please include one to two letters of recommendation.

Job Summary

As an integral part of the College of Literature, Science and the Arts (LSA), the Museum of Anthropological Archaeology is an international leader in anthropological archaeology research and student training. The research collections include materials from all over the world including archaeological, ethnobotanical, ethnographic, zooarcheological and archival materials. The collections lead to new research, grants, and to the education of undergraduate and graduate students. Under the direction of the Museum Director, the Research Museum Collection Manager will provide the daily and long-term care and use of the UMMAA permanent collections. This will include working with curators, graduate and undergraduate students and volunteers to conduct research, maintain an accurate inventory of the collections, upgrade storage conditions, train students in collection management, and provide an avenue of public outreach, tours, presentations and community service. Information about the Museum is available at: http://www.lsa.umich.edu/ummaa/.

The target salary range for the position is $42,000-52,000. Higher salary may be possible based on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

Responsibilities

Collection care and organization – Supervise the accessioning/deaccessioning of collections and coordinate all cataloging activities associated with teaching and permanent collections. Organize and re-housing of collections of artifacts, plant and animal remains, geological and radiocarbon samples including both new, incoming collections and older collections that are in need of conservation and improved storage. Develop and implement procedures related to the management of the collections. Assist in fulfilling requirements for NAGPRA regulations (inventory, repatriation notices, correspondence filing).

Collection use – Scheduling and monitoring use of research collection by local researchers and those visiting from other institutions. Processing internal and external loans and reintegration of loan returns.

Database management – Ongoing maintenance of specimen and locality databases with the goal of upgrading database systems and improving online access to select specimen information. Knowledge of relational databases and database implementation is very important.

Educational activities – Ongoing work with faculty curators, students, and counterparts in other units to plan projects using collections and facilitate use of collections in teaching. Facility organization and maintenance

Oversee the facility environment at Ruthven, Kipke and North Campus storage areas, temperature and relative humidity at Kipke; regulate security and access to storage locations.

Act as Project Manager and key planner for the Museum’s upcoming relocation for approximately 3 million objects.

Supervision

Hire, coordinate, evaluate and supervise student temporaries and one assistant collections manager. Train and instruct temporaries on the proper procedures for cataloging, handling of objects and the best procedures for maintaining the collections.

Required Qualifications

Minimum of a Master’s degree in an appropriate field (museum studies, anthropology/archaeology) and 4-7 years of museum registration and collection management experience. Expertise in standard museum registration practices including cataloguing, conservation and storage practices. Prior experience in relational database construction, use and management is essential. Excellent organizational skills and communication skills and the ability to effectively prioritize and execute/delegate tasks. Ability to be flexible and work collaboratively in a team environment. Some moving and transporting of materials and objects that could weigh up to 50 lbs, including the storage of these items at heights that require the use of a step stool or ladder. Candidate must have broad understanding of museum collection activities including permits, integrated pest management and professional museum standards and best practices.

Desired Qualifications

In view of the high level of interaction with and service to faculty and graduate students, there is a preference for candidates with a PhD in a relevant field. Advanced training in area related to Museum Studies, Collection Management, and/or a field related to anthropology/archaeology is desirable. Experience planning a museum relocation. Under FLSA, incumbents in this position meet the criteria for exempt status.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer