Since 1906, the Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society (NCHGS) has been collecting, preserving and showcasing art, culture and American history made in Northampton County. NCHGS is a private not-for-profit (501C3) that preserves, protects, and showcases extensive collections of artifacts, history books, and family genealogies at various sites in the county seat of Easton, PA. The Society operates from its flagship Sigal Museum, 342 Northampton Street, also home to the Jane S. Moyer Library. Special programs and events are held at the Sigal Museum and other NCHGS locations– the 1807 Jacob Nicholas House Museum, the 1833 Mixsell House Museum, and the 1753 Bachmann Publick House.

The Curator of Exhibitions position maintains and creates exhibitions at several museum locations managed by NCHGS, and assists with management of the vast holdings of NCHGS.  Tasks include developing ways in which collections and archival materials can be interpreted, through exhibitions, publications, events and audio-visual presentations. Key responsibilities involve organizing and installing exhibitions, processing acquisitions, arranging restoration of artifacts, organizing loans, identification and recording of items, and dealing with research inquiries. Collaboration is required with other colleagues in conservation, education, design and marketing departments. In addition, conducting research and lecturing will be an important part of the position.

Classification Responsibilities: Curators develop and maintain the Society’s collections; oversee the staff (paid and volunteer) working with the collections; undertake artifact research, conservation, storage, and exhibition; mentor the staff members in the provenance and history behind exhibited artifacts; advocate for growth of collection to augment and enrich these holdings; maintain the coordination and management with relevant experts in the restoration and preservation of artifacts of the museum; protect the collections and assists in designing and developing the best technologies to secure and protect specific and overall collections safely; maintain complete records of the collections of the Society; mount collection exhibitions; with additional administrative duties as required.

Job Requirements

Skills and Specifications

  • Strong interpersonal, diplomatic and negotiation skills, with the ability to work with committees, manage volunteer staff;
  • Extensive and thorough knowledge of collections, or the skills needed to appropriately research, conserve, and handle artifacts;
  • Strong communication skills both written and verbally;
  • Excellent project management and organizational skills;
  • Knowledge of fundraising for projects;
  • Possess solid historical research skills;
  • Able to prioritize, multi-task, and meet deadlines;
  • Ability to use the museum database systems, Past Perfect proficiency desired;
  • Ability to lift 20-40 lbs.

Preferred Education and Qualifications

  • Minimum 2 years experience with collections and M.A. in Museum Studies, the Arts, or History related field or appropriate combination of education and experience to undertake the responsibilities of this position;
  • Ability to develop, undertake, and complete collections projects;
  • Possess solid research skills;
  • Prior experience in museum environment collaborating with staff members and Boards;
  •  Special knowledge of Eastern Pennsylvanian regional historical collections and 18th, 19th, and 20th century costuming.

Submit Letter of Interest, Resume, and Salary Requirements to: Barbara Kowitz, Executive Director, NCHGS, 342 Northampton St., Easton, PA  18042 or email: barbara@northamptonctymuseum.org

APPLY FOR THIS JOB

Contact Person: Barbara Kowitz Phone: 610-253-1222
Email Address: barbara@northamptonctymuseum.org
Apply URL: http://sigalmuseum.org