http://www.midwestmuseums.org/jobs.html#collectDusable


COLLECTIONS ASSISTANT (TEMPORARY FULL-TIME)
DuSable Museum of African American History, IL


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 re-housing 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 a full-time temporary position, salary based on experience, Health benefits available.


Please email resumé, cover letter, and salary requirements to Kristina Eason atkeason@dusablemuseum.org, 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.


(Posted 2/1/16)