Archive & Photo Collections Specialist

History Colorado’s Archive and Photo Collections Specialist works with the Head of Collections Management and Registration and colleagues in the Curatorial Services and Collections Access Department, to preserve and care for History Colorado’s large holdings of archive and photographic collections. They will work to manage the physical storage and tracking of collections, ensure the best standards of preservation, and work to improve collections accessibility for the organization and public. Collections Stewardship Provide high levels of accountability and collections stewardship for entire collection Rehouse new archival and photographic acquisitions brought into the collection by curatorial staff Work to improve current collections storage conditions and formats Conduct regular inventories of collections based on need and project demands Work with staff to manage large and small collections projects such as surveys, moves, rehousing, conservation/preservation priorities, etc. Work with various equipment to create archival quality scans of documents, maps, photographs, negatives, and other formats Provide recommendations and advice on archives management to other staff in the department as well as throughout the organization Work closely with History Colorado collections management database, Argus, to improve catalog records and ensure proper tracking of collections Periodically help to process new acquisitions of archives and photographs Work with Head of Collections Management and Registration to create, implement, and uphold policies and procedures Provide high level of project management Assist with collections and exhibit projects at community museums throughout the state Outreach and Engagement Contribute towards the department’s various outreach and engagement efforts Provide behind the scenes collections storage tours Periodically travel to destinations across the state for outreach events and programs Create programming for any of the department’s established programs, including Museum Connections, How-To, and Meet the Collection Supervision Supervise contractors, interns, and volunteers Minimum Qualifications Master’s degree in Museum Studies, History, Art History, Library Science (or related degree) with a minimum of 1 year of practical museum experience OR Bachelor’s degree with 3+ years of relevant practical experience Ability to obtain a valid Colorado driver’s license Proven Experience, Knowledge, Skills Handling, storage, and experience with large collections or high volumes of activity at a medium to large institution (or comparable experience) Experience working with a range of collection types Strong computer skills and proficiency with collections management databases, metadata standards, and cataloging standards common to museums and archives, strong experience with Argus preferred Knowledge of or ability to learn Colorado history and history of the American West Knowledge of museum collection standards and conservation practices including the standard agents of deterioration, their effects on different types of artifacts, and how to best mitigate their effects (theft, fire, water, temperature, relative humidity, pests, light, contaminants, etc.) Preferred Qualifications Proven application of collections management skills and inventory, survey, and inventory projects Strong ability to make decisions, be self-directing and work independently, and show motivation High level of proficiency with collections management databases Strong storage organization skills Collections management experience with large collections or high volumes of activity at a medium to large institution (or experience that is comparable) Experience in project management, meeting deadlines, and flexible multi-tasking in a fast-paced and sometimes ever-changing environment Innovative and/or motivated approaches for collections outreach and providing access to collections, especially with workflow Effective communication and cooperation with other museum staff, especially curatorial staff Ability to direct collections management tasks or make comparable decisions with or in absence of a supervisor Factors to be Evaluated Technical Competence – Technical experience as it relates to the duties outlined in this job announcement. Depth and Breadth of Experience – Experience that covers multiple areas outlined in this job announcement. Experience should be varied and not one dimensional and demonstrate a wide range of community involvement. Job Fit – Experience will be evaluated to determine how well your past experience aligns with and meets the business needs of this position. Current experience is preferred. #J-18808-Ljbffr