The
Gunn Memorial Library, Inc. seeks applicants for a newly created
position for a full-time Collections Manager for the Gunn Historical
Museum in Washington, Connecticut.
Summary and Scope of Position:
The Collections Manager will provide for documentation and care for the
Museums’ diverse collection of over 15,000 objects. The collections
manager will be responsible for management of collections records and
database, administer all collections care and management documentation
for permanent collection, and apply best practices to the work of the
Museum. This position requires precise attention to detail, strong
communication and analytical skills, as well as the abilities to manage
multiple projects simultaneously and to work collaboratively and
diplomatically.
Major Duties: The museum
collections manager is the primary staff member charged with maintaining
the Gunn Historical Museum collections and the records that document
them. The museum collections manager works with the staff, collection
volunteers, interns, and outside vendors and colleagues to ensure that
the museum collections are properly documented, stored, and displayed,
whether at onsite or at another venue. The museum collections manager
plays an important role in establishing and achieving goals to improve
the care and preservation of and access to the museum collections and
may be called upon to lead staff-wide projects in these areas, such as
emergency preparedness and building security.
Education and experience: Bachelor’s degree in Public History, Museum Studies or related field required. Collection management experience is required.
Necessary Knowledge and Skills:
Working knowledge of general philosophy, principles, and practices of
history museums; considerable knowledge of collections management, care,
handling, storage, documentation, and classifications; 18th-20th
century American material culture knowledge; strong knowledge of
computer database systems including PastPerfect; professional
photography and digitization skills; considerable knowledge of
collections conservation; working knowledge of environmental control,
pest management, security, and risk management; working knowledge of
intellectual property and rights and reproductions, and excellent
research skills. Must have the ability to plan, organize, and implement
complex filing and research systems; ability to multi-task and problem
solve; must have the ability to work alone, independently and the
ability to work in a team-oriented environment; ability to communicate
effectively, verbally and in writing; ability to establish and maintain
effective, positive working relationships with volunteers, assistants,
supervisor, other agencies, and the public.
Physical Requirements/Skills:
Frequently required to walk, sit, talk, and hear; frequently required
to use hands to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls and
to reach with hands and arms; occasionally required to climb or
balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch; occasionally lifts and/or moves up to
25 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance
vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability
to adjust focus.
Salary and Benefits: This is
an exciting entry level- mid level position. The current budget
allocation for this position is within professional recommendations.
Excellent benefits include paid annual vacation and sick leave, health
insurance, and a 401(k) plan.
Prior to extending an offer of
employment, the finalists must prove that they are fully vaccinated
against COVID-19; or have applied for an exemption from this
requirement.
To Apply: Candidates should email a letter of interest and resume, with three references, to: amaclaren@gunnlibrary.org.
Application deadline: May 18, 2022
The Gunn Museum is an equal opportunity employer. All applications will
be considered without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity, age, national identity, or veteran status.
