Collections Registrar [Anchorage Museum Association, Anchorage, AK]

Description

The Anchorage Museum is seeking a detailed individual with a demonstrated knowledge of collections and accessioning processes for the position of Collections Registrar. The Collections Registrar is responsible for registration functions of objects taken into the museum’s permanent collection. This position also directs activities to maintain the content of the collections database system, and sets standards for accessioning objects into the permanent collection. This position supervises the Collections Manager and has budgetary responsibility for database and collections management projects.

Summary Position Statement

Under the supervision of the Director of Collections, the Collections Registrar is responsible for registration functions of objects taken into the museum’s permanent collection. This position also directs activities to maintain the content of the collections database system, and sets standards for accessioning objects into the permanent collection. This position supervises the Collections Manager and has budgetary responsibility for database and collections management projects.

Essential Functions:

• Manage the registration and accession process for objects accepted into the museum’s permanent collection.
• Maintain national registration practices; establish and maintain registration and accession procedures for the museum.
• Supervise volunteers and interns working in collections.
• Manage the collections database system: develop database procedures, provide proper and consistent entry and maintenance of data, and oversee the use of the standardized data dictionary(s)
• Act as primary contact with the database vendor and the museum’s IT department.
• Supervise Collections Manager
• Support and provide public access to collections information; develop programming, promote online collections and be able to represent and collaborate with external partners and the public.

Requirements

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Demonstrated knowledge of collections registration and accessioning processes.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to assess priorities and work well under pressure; excellent time management, problem solving and analytical skills with attention to detail
• Familiarity with thesauri, documentation standards, and cataloguing and image management standards.
• Ability to work well with diverse groups of Museum stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to effectively manage multiple projects
• Ability to present, advocate and support public access and collaboration.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in art history, history, anthropology, museum studies, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• Two years’ experience as a collections registrar.
• Two years’ experience managing a collections database preferred.
• One year experience supervising staff and managing budgets.
• Demonstrated knowledge of collections databases and reports, TMS and Crystal Reports preferred.