erika.katayama
04-17-2015, 11:11 AM
INTERNSHIP: Collections Assistant
The Museum of Danish America in Elk Horn, Iowa will soon finish a full inventory and cataloging project for its object and photo collections which number almost 24,000 pieces. The Collections Assistant will be responsible for helping to complete the remaining artifacts in both collections. Once the inventory is finished, all known information about the collections will be electronically accessible through the PastPerfect 5.0 database both in-house and via the Museum’s website under “View Our Collection.”
Position Description:
Stage One: Recording the artifact’s ID number and location. Condition reports are made and photos taken. Measurements and any other pertinent information such as maker’s marks, inscriptions, and design details are also recorded at this time.
Stage Two: Inputting data and photos into PastPerfect. Information from paper files for the corresponding artifacts will also be added to provide provenance.
Stage Three: Creating a master inventory list. Each artifact in the collections will be recorded on an Excel spreadsheet with its ID number and home location.
Stage Four: Recording the ID number of artifacts that should be considered for deaccessioning. Pieces that do not fit the mission of the Museum, have little provenance, are heavily deteriorated, or pose health or safety concerns may be considered for deaccessioning.
In addition, the Collections Assistant may help catalog new donations into the collection. All interns are also involved in Collections Review Committee and Exhibitions Committee meetings, outreach activities, and in behind-the-scenes tours to other museums for professional development and networking opportunities. Both American and Danish interns participate in the Museum’s internship program.
Position Details and Benefits:
Duration/Hours: One-year, 40 hours per week
Pay: $9.00 hourly
Benefits: Rent-free, fully-furnished house (includes utilities except for phone/internet/cable)
Start Date: September 1 or later (can be flexible)
Position Requirements:
Masters degree or intended graduation from a Museum Studies program, though undergraduates and candidates with a degree in History or a related field may be considered; excellent writing skills; strong attention to detail; ability to handle large work loads and meet deadlines; ability to perform the physical requirements of the position including standing for long periods of time and lifting heavy objects; and ability to work well alone and in a group. Optional, but highly preferred: museum registration and/or inventory experience, and familiarity with PastPerfect software.
Application Deadline: Must be received by May 15, 2015. Selection will be made by June 15.
Application Details: Send letter of interest and resume (email attachments or hard copy are accepted) to: Museum of Danish America, Attn: Angela Stanford, 2212 Washington Street, Elk Horn, IA 51531. Questions may be directed to: angela.stanford@danishmuseum.org.
The Museum of Danish America in Elk Horn, Iowa will soon finish a full inventory and cataloging project for its object and photo collections which number almost 24,000 pieces. The Collections Assistant will be responsible for helping to complete the remaining artifacts in both collections. Once the inventory is finished, all known information about the collections will be electronically accessible through the PastPerfect 5.0 database both in-house and via the Museum’s website under “View Our Collection.”
Position Description:
Stage One: Recording the artifact’s ID number and location. Condition reports are made and photos taken. Measurements and any other pertinent information such as maker’s marks, inscriptions, and design details are also recorded at this time.
Stage Two: Inputting data and photos into PastPerfect. Information from paper files for the corresponding artifacts will also be added to provide provenance.
Stage Three: Creating a master inventory list. Each artifact in the collections will be recorded on an Excel spreadsheet with its ID number and home location.
Stage Four: Recording the ID number of artifacts that should be considered for deaccessioning. Pieces that do not fit the mission of the Museum, have little provenance, are heavily deteriorated, or pose health or safety concerns may be considered for deaccessioning.
In addition, the Collections Assistant may help catalog new donations into the collection. All interns are also involved in Collections Review Committee and Exhibitions Committee meetings, outreach activities, and in behind-the-scenes tours to other museums for professional development and networking opportunities. Both American and Danish interns participate in the Museum’s internship program.
Position Details and Benefits:
Duration/Hours: One-year, 40 hours per week
Pay: $9.00 hourly
Benefits: Rent-free, fully-furnished house (includes utilities except for phone/internet/cable)
Start Date: September 1 or later (can be flexible)
Position Requirements:
Masters degree or intended graduation from a Museum Studies program, though undergraduates and candidates with a degree in History or a related field may be considered; excellent writing skills; strong attention to detail; ability to handle large work loads and meet deadlines; ability to perform the physical requirements of the position including standing for long periods of time and lifting heavy objects; and ability to work well alone and in a group. Optional, but highly preferred: museum registration and/or inventory experience, and familiarity with PastPerfect software.
Application Deadline: Must be received by May 15, 2015. Selection will be made by June 15.
Application Details: Send letter of interest and resume (email attachments or hard copy are accepted) to: Museum of Danish America, Attn: Angela Stanford, 2212 Washington Street, Elk Horn, IA 51531. Questions may be directed to: angela.stanford@danishmuseum.org.