The Registration and Collections Associate for the Catalina Island Museum is a career-driven and experienced member of the Museum's team. An integral part of the museum's staff, they will work closely with the Assistant Curator and report to the Executive Director of the Museum to help organize and guide the organization’s permanent collection holdings, archive materials and traveling exhibitions. They are responsible for managing the care, and use of the collections of the Museum in order to preserve them for research, education and exhibition. A successful candidate will demonstrate knowledge in producing and maintaining all collections related documents and data management record pertaining to the Museum’s collection including, but not limited to, acquisitions, donations, accessions, deaccessions, condition reports, data entry packaging, shipping, customs, inventory, insurance, storage and copyright.
Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefit package includes a subsidized medical plan, employer paid vision and dental, a 403(b) plan with an employer contribution.


RequirementsLocation Requirement
The Registration and Collections Associate must live on Catalina Island
Educational Requirement:
History, art history or museum studies degree preferred
Responsibilities Expected Include:

  • Organize and maintain computerized collections management system and physical files for all objects, donors, lenders, etc.,
  • Perform general courier duties as needed
  • Arrange for and participate in the storage, movement, exhibition installation, packing and shipping of all loan and collection objects
  • Work closely with outside shipping companies, freight forwarders and customs brokers to arrange shipping
  • Prepare loan contracts, review facility reports and arrange insurance requirements for all exhibition and collections loans
  • Process gifts to the collection, prepare deeds, review completed deeds for accuracy and legality and sign 8283 forms for donors
  • Process and examine all incoming and outgoing objects to determine liability for loss and/or damage
  • Bring to the attention of the Executive Director any object needing physical care or jeopardizing safety of other collection objects; follow established preservation and conservation standards
  • Create, organize and maintain records pertaining to condition, physical description, and location of collection objects
  • Physically number collection objects and maintain inventory of collections
  • Research and implement clean storage conditions, storage design, material requirements and climate control
  • Make arrangements for photographs of collection objects and maintain inventory and quality of digital images
  • Compile current documentation on copyright and artists’ rights laws and issues
  • Provide information to researchers, lenders, insurance agents, shippers and other staff members as needed
  • Procure and oversee volunteer projects related to collections
  • Maintain awareness of and ensure that museum systems and procedures conform to current and established practices and standards of the museum profession and to local, state and federal laws

Skills and Attributes Include:
The successful candidate for this position will have a demonstrated history as evidenced by i) a Curriculum Vitae of sustained growth in one or more organizations, ii) a history of accomplishment as his/her career has evolved over time iii) a list of professional references in related field
The successful candidate will also be able to point to experiential components of their career illustrating i) excellence in written and oral communications, ii) solid organizational skills, iii) knowledge of collection database use iv) strong interpersonal skills, team player and enthusiastic “can do” attitude.



Job Information
  • Location:Avalon, California, 90704, United States
  • Job ID:38159370
  • Posted:November 14, 2017
  • Position Title:Registration and Collections Associate
  • Company Name:Catalina Island Museum
  • Job Function:Registrar/Collections Management
  • Entry Level:Yes
  • Job Type:Full-Time
  • Job Duration:Indefinite
  • Min Education:BA/BS/Undergraduate
  • Min Experience:2-3 Years
  • Required Travel:10-25%





About Catalina Island Museum

Founded in 1953, the Catalina Island Museum is located in the quaint city of Avalon on beautiful Catalina Island. Just 23 miles from the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area, the Catalina Island Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving and sharing the remarkable cultural and historical heritage of Catalina as well as enriching the experiences of residents and visitors through an offering of unique and contemporary rotating exhibits, musical concerts, and silent film presentations.

Our vision is to be An Anchor of Tradition, a Beacon of Culture, Inspiring our Community