Collections Assistant (temporary full-time)

The Collections Assistant will join a team of four in the final year of a grant-funded collections cataloging and registration project. Reporting to the Head of Collections and Registration, this position involves rehousing art and artifacts, cataloging museum collections, and assisting with backlog registration.

 Essential Functions:

• Clean, stabilize and re-house artifacts of various mediums/materials according to established preservation standards
• Catalog, condition report, and photograph objects, creating or adding to catalog records in PastPerfect database
• Physically move artifacts from temporary facility to permanent storage in the museum 
• Label artifacts with permanent accession numbers
• Conduct object research as needed
• Assist in reconciling problem numbers and found-in-collections (FIC) objects
• Assist in processing backlog registration paperwork
• Assist with preventative conservation including pest management and climate/environmental monitoring; maintain departmental integrated pest management (IPM) system and schedule
• Perform cleaning and maintenance of storage areas and exhibit galleries on a rotating schedule
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies, History, Art History, Museum or related field, plus minimum two years collections-related experience. Knowledge of proper object handling and procedures related to safe storage Working knowledge of museum collections management systems (CMS).

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of cataloging procedures and accepted nomenclature
• Knowledge of standard museum collections management practices and procedures
• Physical coordination/ability to handle and move fragile collection objects; ability to lift 40 pounds
• Basic art-handling skills
• Understanding of the proprietary nature of museum collections and documents and ability to adhere to museum policies regarding confidentiality
• Familiarity with museum collections software, experience with PastPerfect strongly preferred
• Excellent organizational skills, accuracy and attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Strong interpersonal skills; must be team-oriented but also capable of working independently under minimum supervision
• Ability to work under pressure and establish priorities under strict deadlines
• Ability to multi-task and be flexible in work assignments

This is a full-time temporary position, salary based on experience, health benefits available. Please email résumé, cover letter, and salary requirements to Kristina Eason at [log in to unmask], with “Collections Assistant Search” in the subject line. No phone calls please. Candidate reviews end 30 days after posting. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.