Curator of Collections
The Old Colony History Museum, a growing and dynamic regional history museum, seeks a Curator of Collections to revitalize significant collections of New England decorative arts, textiles, militaria, and silver as well as an archive and library holding important manuscript and printed material relating to the genealogical and historical background of southeastern Massachusetts.He/she will participate in research, development, and active management of the Collection; the initiation of collection displays, special exhibitions, publications and interpretation; and all activities of the Curatorial Department. Works with and reports to the Executive Director.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:
• Working closely with the Executive Director, be a leader in developing a new curatorial vision for the museum.
• Working within the guidelines of our recently adopted Collections Policy, significant efforts will be made to enhance the collection’s accessibility to the staff, as well as visiting scholars for research and interpretation.
• With a focus on collection management, new ideas are sought for collection storage as well as working to develop a long range plan to better meet the physical needs of the collection.
• Initiate and organize collection displays and special exhibitions.
• Contribute scholarly research to our newsletter, website, and outside publications.
• Answer correspondence relating to the Collection; assist the public and visiting scholars as needed.
• Contribute to public programs (Outreach, Volunteers, etc.)
• Foster and maintain excellent working relationships with donors, patrons, colleagues from other institutions, the scholarly community, and other individuals involved with the interests of the Museum.
• Working with the Executive Director, the Curator will be responsible for seeking, writing, and implementing grants to support the collection in a number of areas.
• Interact with potential sponsors and assist with fundraising as appropriate.
• Advise on program planning.
• Supervise and manage a team of volunteers.
• Other duties as assigned.
Experience & Skills:
• Experience in a museum or academic institution
• Knowledge of American history, preferably in New England and/or southeastern MA
• Proven experience initiating and executing exhibitions
• Experience in original research, proven ability to write, edit, and produce publishable work
• Demonstrated commitment to audience engagement and learning
• Sound knowledge of collection management, storage, and preventative conservation skills
• Some experience with archive and library collections preferred
• Experience in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations preferred
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with, museum colleagues and the general public
• Ability to create and maintain well-researched and precise records
Knowledge & Education:
• M.A. (or equivalent) in Museum Studies, History, or related field required
• Broad knowledge of modern museum practices with a desire to experiment with new ideas
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Exhibition experience required
Application Deadline: December 31st, 2015
The Curator of Collections, Old Colony History Museum, is a full-time position. Required hours are Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Please send cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to:info@oldcolonyhistorymuseum.org as a Word attachment only with “Curator of Collections” in the subject line. No phone calls please.
December 31, 2015
Leave a Reply