Description
Summary
The Collections Manager plays a critical role in the mission of the Kodiak History Museum, ensuring the documentation, preservation, and ongoing access to the Museum’s collections while striving towards best practices.
This role works directly with the public, respectfully gathering and preserving information with diverse audiences. This role ensures the safety and documentation of collections during research requests and a wide variety of public inquiries. The Collections Manager works collaboratively with the curatorial team with exhibit installation, loaning and shipping, and collections research and documentation for exhibits and programs. This is a full-time, salaried position that reports to the Chief Curator and supervises select volunteers.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Ensures the safety and security of collections
Manages all collection documentation, digital database, research files, and reference library
Manages deaccessions and acquisitions processes
Manages preventative conservation programs including integrated pest management and housekeeping
Facilitates all research and access to the collections
Conducts regular inventory of collections
Conducts regular collections policy review with Curatorial team
Writes procedure documents for collections work
Responsible for packing and shipping of objects
Monitors emerging trends in best practices for the preservation, care, and access to museum collections
Creates written public communication materials about the collection
Collaborates in grant writing and proposals
Proposes and leads special collections projects and initiatives
Assists in collections preservation planning
Assists with installation/deinstallation of exhibits
Participates in outreach and professional development activities as needed
Educates staff on collections care and preservation
Supervision of select collections volunteers
Necessary Knowledge and Skills
Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, history, museum studies, information science, or related field
2+ Years of experience working in a museum, library, cultural organization, gallery, in an administrative or collections management capacity
Experience organizing and managing files or collection management databases
Experience handling delicate materials and creating storage solutions
Demonstrated strong project management skills, successfully delivering projects on time and within scope
Excellent organizational skills
Ability to professionally communicate and coordinate with researchers and public inquires
Good written and oral communications skills
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and using PC computers
Strong knowledge of museum best practices
Independent worker with strong collaboration skills
Must be able to safely lift up to 50 pounds and ascend/descend stairs
Willingness to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends
Committed to inclusivity by respecting diverse perspectives, amplifying all voices, and building a collaborative community
Preferred Skills
Creating and building exhibit mounts
Experience working in a history museum
Grant writing experience preferred
Experience working and living in Alaska
Have or obtain a US driver’s license
Compensation and Benefits
$55,000 - $58,000 annually, depending on experience, with comprehensive benefits and annual cost of living increases. KHM will provide in its offer of employment a stipend of $3,000 for relocation to Kodiak from off-island, to be paid in the Collection Manager's first paycheck. Following successful completion of a 3-month probationary period, position is eligible for medical, dental, PTO, and retirement benefits.
Interested applicants should submit a resume and letter of interest via email to Margaret Greutert, Chief Curator at margaret@kodiakhistorymuseum.org or by mail to:
Kodiak History Museum
Attn. Margaret Greutert, Chief Curator
101 E Marine Way
Kodiak AK 99615
This position will remain open until filled.
KHM is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment on any basis including race, creed, color, age, sex, religion or national origin.
Requirements
Necessary Knowledge and Skills
Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, history, museum studies, information science, or related field
2+ Years of experience working in a museum, library, cultural organization, gallery, in an administrative or collections management capacity
Experience organizing and managing files or collection management databases
Experience handling delicate materials and creating storage solutions
Demonstrated strong project management skills, successfully delivering projects on time and within scope
Excellent organizational skills
Ability to professionally communicate and coordinate with researchers and public inquires
Good written and oral communications skills
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and using PC computers
Strong knowledge of museum best practices
Independent worker with strong collaboration skills
Must be able to safely lift up to 50 pounds and ascend/descend stairs
Willingness to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends
Committed to inclusivity by respecting diverse perspectives, amplifying all voices, and building a collaborative community
Preferred Skills
Creating and building exhibit mounts
Experience working in a history museum
Grant writing experience preferred
Experience working and living in Alaska
Have or obtain a US driver’s license
