University of Michigan, Museum of Anthropological Archaeology

Senior Collections Manager – Job Opening ID 132085

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted via the University of Michigan’s job posting website: http://umjobs.org/job_detail/132085/senior_collections_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 have one to two letters of recommendation sent to [log in to unmask].

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 Senior Collection Manager will provide the daily and long-term care and use of the UMMAA permanent collections.  This will include supervision of collections managers, working with curators, graduate and undergraduate students and volunteers to conduct research, maintain an accurate inventory of the collections, upgrade storage and object 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 $68,000-75,000.  A higher salary may be possible based on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

Responsibilities

Direct supervision of two collections managers, two NAGPRA collections managers, student temporaries and volunteers.  Facilitate the successful performance, work planning, evaluation, mentoring and professional development of all UMMAA collections staff.  Provide regular supervision to staff in need of additional support and feedback.  Take lead role in interviewing, hiring and training new staff, students and volunteers working with the collections.

Collaborates on the development and implementation of operating policies and procedures related to the care of collections and compliance with associated regulations.  Ensure all Museum constituents are trained and up-to-date on Museum policies/procedures.  Conducts and maintains periodic reconciliation and physical inventory of the collections.  Oversee collection valuation and insurance coverage process and act as liaison with Risk Management to ensure appropriate coverage of the collections is maintained.  Oversee and continuously improves collections records management, including both permanent paper file and database records regarding acquisitions, loans, condition reports and deaccessions. 

Collection Management:  Responsible for the overall management and care of the collections in UMMAA which consists of approximately 3 million objects in multiple locations.  Including storage and organization, physical condition preservation, collection moves, audits and inventories.  Manage the upcoming move of the collections to a new facility.  Oversee the museum facilities at multiple locations (Ruthven, Campus Safety Bldg, Varsity Drive and North Campus).  Facilities management including, OSEH compliance, general security, and emergency planning.

Grant writing and research. Investigate possible grant support opportunities and write grants to improve collection storage and housing materials. Research and evaluate proper housing, conservation treatments and up-to-date museum practices that are vital to the overall care and use of the museum collections.

Required Qualifications

An advanced degree (master's or doctoral) in an appropriate field (anthropology/archaeology, museum studies ) at least 4 years supervisory experience of collections staff and student/interns and minimum of 7-10 years of museum collection management.  Extensive experience with research collections is required.  Prior experience with relational database construction, use and management is strongly preferred.

Expertise in standard museum practices including cataloguing, conservation and storage practices. Excellent organizational and communication skills and the ability to effectively prioritize, meet deadlines, 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 such items occasionally ascending or descending at heights that require the use of a step stool or ladder.

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 an area related to collections management and conservation experience, and/or a field related to anthropology/archaeology is desirable.  Experience managing a museum relocation.

Familiarity with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future. The University of Michigan is committed to foster learning, creativity and productivity, and to support the vigorous exchange of ideas and information, not only in the classroom but in the workplace by: Creating a work environment in which people treat each other with respect and dignity, regardless of roles, responsibilities or differences. Providing support, direction and resources enabling us to accomplish the responsibilities of our jobs and to reach the goals that are set for professional and personal growth.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

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