Collections Manager [Meadows Art Museum, Dallas, TX]

Description

Job Summary: 

The Collections Manager will maintain records of storage, exhibit, and loan locations of all objects in the collection for use of establishment personnel, insurance representatives and other persons utilizing the Meadows Art Museum.  This position will develop and implement collections and archives management policies.  The Collection Manager will also assist with handling, packing and inspecting all objects entering or leaving the Museum.

Essential Functions:

• Maintains records of storage, exhibit, and loan locations of all objects in collection for use of establishment personnel, insurance representatives, and other persons utilizing facilities.
• Maintains the Collections database, including input of data, standardization of information and cross check.
• Assists with incoming and outgoing paperwork for exhibitions and loans.
• Arranges for insurance of objects on loan or special exhibition, or recommends insurance coverage on parts of or entire collection.
• Develop and implement collections and archives management policies and activities based on best practices.
• Create access tools, guides and finding aids. 
• Assists with handling, packing, movement, and inspection of all objects entering or leaving establishment, including traveling exhibits, and confers with other personnel to develop and initiate most practical methods of packing and shipping fragile or valuable objects.
• Assist with installations, courier trips, and deliveries.
• Oversee and train interns, part-time staff and volunteers.
• Manages certifications regarding the shipping of artwork (i.e., applications through Spanish government for export, Fish and Wildlife importation permits (CITES), and US Indemnity application).
• Participate in Museum programs and activities.

Requirements

Education and Experience:  

Bachelor’s Degree is required; prefer emphasis in Art History.  Master’s Degree is preferred.

A minimum of five years professional museum registration work in a fine arts museum is required.  Two years supervisory experience is preferred.  Previous art handling experience is a plus.  Experience with digital photography and archiving is a plus.

Fluency in Spanish, including reading, writing, and speaking is desirable. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively and positively with a wide range of constituencies.  Must also demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in writing. Professional demeanor and communication skills are essential.

Database computer skills and accurate record keeping are crucial.

Candidate will also possess highly developed organizational skills that include multi-tasking and the ability to manage multiple forms of information in an orderly fashion.

Candidate must have the ability to carefully handle fragile, valuable art collection.

Candidate must demonstrate strong problem solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems as well as devise solutions.  Must also be able to work independently as well as to work collaboratively.

Candidate must possess ability to manage concurrent projects and handle multiple priorities at once.

Must also have a strong focus on attention to detail.

Strong project management skills are essential.

Candidate must be able to effectively train and supervise others.

Candidate must be prepared to work in both office and gallery settings, have the ability to adjust to new situations rapidly, travel for up to two weeks at a time, and have a reliable work ethic.

Physical/Environmental Demands: 

This position must bend, reach above shoulders, carry/lift over 25-50 lbs., squat, climb, kneel, handle objects (dexterity) stand, push/pull, walk for long distances, sit for long periods of time, and work around moving machinery.

This position is open until filled.

TO APPLY: Please visit our website www.smu.jobs and select staff careers from the right-hand side menu to access the online application. Click on Staff Career Opportunities and apply to Job ID#: 900948.

Southern Methodist University (SMU) will not discriminate in any employment practice, education program, education activity, or admissions on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. SMU’s commitment to equal opportunity includes nondiscrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity and expression.  The Executive  Director for  Access  and  Equity/Title  IX1   Coordinator  is  designated  to  handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies,  including  the prohibition of sex discrimination under Title IX. The Executive Director/Title IX Coordinator may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu.  Inquiries   regarding   the application of Title IX may also be directed to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education.