Collections Specialist, The Henry Ford

Collections Specialist (2-year position)
The Collections Specialist serves a multifunctional role at The Henry Ford that specializes in processing and description of collections materials. With supervision and guidance by senior staff, the Collections Specialist will be assigned work such as cataloging (e.g. capture of metadata and content descriptions), final review/approval of catalog records, as well as the “rapid capture” and scanning of archival materials. Responsible for insuring the integrity and completeness of the documentary records of The Henry Ford. Duties include multiple levels of collection development activities that encompass the curatorial, registrarial, collections management, archives and library, and conservation activities of Historical Resources. Accountable to Registrar or designated senior staff.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1.Maximizes intellectual access to collections information through the timely creation and/or modification of electronic catalog information, ensuring quality control through associated lexicon, thesauri, and metadata standards as approved by the institution.
2.Facilitates work flow by coordinating input from the Registrar, Archives, and the Digitization teams for the purpose of developing project schedules and task assignments related to the processing of collections material.
3.Creation of electronic collections inventories as needed for tracking status of collections processing, documentation, and cataloging for various needs – digitization, conservation, exhibition, loans, etc.
4.Monitors progress against project schedules and suggests adjustments to resource assignments or schedules as necessary to optimize performance and make the project as efficient as possible.

5.Performs scanning or rapid photographic capture of archival materials based on

digitization priorities.
6.Performs research using primary and secondary resources in order to accurately interpret and catalog collections.
7.Determines steps that need to be taken to properly organize and catalog objects and groups of objects in the collection; this entails physical and intellectual arrangement.
8.Uses appropriate resources to conduct complex record searches and generate reports.
9.Understands and applies relevant professional standards and guidelines. Takes responsibility for keeping up-to-date on revisions in cataloging and meta data rules and practices.
10.Provides timely and accurate responses to internal and external inquiries for information about collections.
11.Assists in the development of guidelines for object processing and cataloging.
12.Contributes to the effective team management of all problems, issues, and opportunities.
13.Performs other activities as necessary.
14.Acts as a team player and provides expertise within the team and with other teams as appropriate.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Museum collections experience essential, with experience in registrarial and archival museum work preferred. Bachelor’s degree in American history, Information Studies, Museum Studies, or a related field desirable. Familiarity with standard cataloging theories and practice desirable. Accuracy and attention to detail essential.
SPECIAL SKILLS

Familiarity with copy stand photography and image scanning equipment, software, and procedures. Must have good organizational and communication skills. Ability to synthesize information from a variety of sources. Experience with a collections database system. Strong attention to details and thoroughness. Must have the ability to work independently with a record of working with a variety of people and excelling in a team-based environment.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL/ENVIRONMENTAL
Physical:
Sitting:
65%
Standing/Walking:
35%
Lifting:
Occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs.
Vision:

Normal; frequently requires working for long periods at computer or examining historical materials closely

Mental:
Must be good at interpreting, problem solving and decision making
Environment:
Occasional exposure to chemicals, dust and mold.
**To apply, please submit resume and cover letter to: Recruitment Manager, employment@thehenryford.org