Collections Coordinator

SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONS: The Collections Coordinator is responsible for the research, care, acquisition, and interpretation of our museum collections, related to the history of DeKalb County. It is a varied collection in terms of materials, sizes, and conditions.

Job Summary

The primary functions of the Collections Coordinator are to create or reconcile collections records with object inventory, maintain or establish proper storage, identify and research existing collections, and work with Exhibits Coordinator to establish Collections to feature in our rotating exhibits. The Collections Coordinator is primarily responsible for the three-dimensional artifacts in our collection while the archivist is primarily responsible for the two-dimensional artifacts.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the development, management, intellectual integrity and care of museum collection. Responsible for accessioning, de-accessioning, inventorying, cataloging and photographing new and existing museum collections to accepted professional standards.
• Create, organize, and/or maintain permanent collections records including object location and finding aids.
• Maintain and update Collective Access computer database of catalog records and electronic imaging.
• Conducts research on permanent collections or loan items as needed.
• Monitors condition of objects in collection storage and exhibition areas and prepares condition reports on artifacts.
• Develops and implements appropriate storage methods for collections.
• Monitors the condition of the museum collections in regard to environmental control and monitoring, pest management, security and risk management. Makes recommendations to the Executive Director for the preservation of collections.
• Develops a DHC Collections Policy.

• Develops a disaster preparedness plan.
• Develops a museum housekeeping plan.
• Responsible for safe handling and movement of artifacts. Provides instruction as needed.
• Stays informed on best practices as established by the AAM, the NPS, and other leading institutions.
• Provides written responses to requests for information concerning museum objects or exhibits.
• Processes incoming and outgoing loans for museum objects and exhibits.
• Writes topical articles for the DHC newsletter or blog as needed.

General

Perform other duties as assigned by Executive Director. All members of the staff are required to support DHC programs that are held after normal working hours and to assist with projects that may lie outside their primary areas of responsibility.

Experience and Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (M.A. preferred) in Museum Studies, History, Fine Arts, Public History, American studies, or related fields, and at least three years of significant experience working in collections or archives for a nonprofit, history organization, or museum. Ideally, the candidate also has professional skills or abilities related to archives and historical research. Prior employment at a small non-profit and a passion for history are pluses.

Skills Needed

Must be able to work independently.

Detail oriented, accurate and possessing good organizational skills, particularly in storage/space management.

Knowledge of museum practices and the safety requirements associated with the handling of objects.

Knowledge of regional history objects from the 18th century through the present day.

Knowledge of or ability to learn collections management software, Microsoft Word and Excel.

Demonstrated historical research skills.

Written and oral communication skills.

Physical Functions

Primary work in an office environment, collections storage areas and exhibit spaces.

May involve exposure to dust and/or mold and must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds.

Sitting, standing and walking for periods of time. Performing the job’s functions may also require: lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; climbing and balancing; stooping, crouching, and significant fine finger dexterity.

Must be able to lift and carry heavy and fragile objects; handle fragile artifacts without damage; physically assist with the installation of objects.

Organizational Relationships:

Reports to Executive Director and works with Exhibits & Communications Coordinator and others as assigned.

Time Requirements:

This is a part-time non-exempt position (up to 20 hours per week; flexible except for Saturdays). Position includes Saturdays from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm when our exhibits are open to the public. Our regular office hours are Monday – Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm and occasionally includes after hours events.

The DeKalb History Center (DHC) is a membership based nonprofit dedicated to collecting, preserving and sharing the rich history of DeKalb County, Georgia. The DHC is a small organization with a track record of strong growth. We are located in the Historic DeKalb Courthouse in downtown Decatur.