Archive & Photo Collections Specialist

Archive and Photo Collections Specialist The Archive and Photo Collections Specialist works with the Head of Collections Management and colleagues in the Curatorial Services and Collections Access Department to preserve and care for History Colorado’s large holdings of archival and photographic collections. Responsibilities Provide high levels of accountability and collections stewardship for the entire collection. Rehouse new archival and photographic acquisitions brought into the collection by curatorial staff. Improve current collections storage conditions and formats. Conduct regular inventories of collections based on need and project demands. Manage large and small collections projects such as surveys, moves, rehousing, conservation/preservation priorities, etc. Create archival‑quality scans of documents, maps, photographs, negatives, and other formats. Provide recommendations and advice on archives management to staff in the department and throughout the organization. Work closely with History Colorado’s collections management database, Argus, to improve catalog records and ensure proper tracking of collections. Periodically assist with the processing of new acquisitions of archives and photographs. Collaborate with the Head of Collections Management and Registration to create, implement, and uphold policies and procedures. Provide high‑level project management. Assist with collections and exhibit projects at community museums throughout the state. Outreach and Engagement Contribute to the department’s outreach and engagement efforts. Offer behind‑the‑scenes collections storage tours. Travel periodically across the state for outreach events and programs. Create programming for established department programs such as Museum Connections, How‑To, and Meet the Collection. Supervision Supervise contractors, interns, and volunteers. Minimum Requirements 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 Experience handling, storing, and working with large collections or high volumes of activity at a medium‑to‑large institution (or comparable experience). Experience 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 the history of the American West. Knowledge of museum collection standards and conservation practices, including standard agents of deterioration, their effects on artifacts, and mitigation methods (theft, fire, water, temperature, relative humidity, pests, light, contaminants, etc.). Preferred Qualifications Proven application of collections management skills, including inventory, survey, and inventory projects. Strong decision‑making ability, self‑directing, independent work, and motivation. High proficiency with collections management databases. Strong storage organization skills. Experience with large collections or high‑volume activity at a medium‑to‑large institution (or comparable experience). Project management experience, meeting deadlines, and flexible multitasking in a fast‑paced, ever‑changing environment. Innovative or motivated approaches to collections outreach and access, especially with workflow. Effective communication and cooperation with other museum staff, especially curatorial staff. Ability to direct collections management tasks or make comparable decisions in the 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 covering multiple areas outlined in this job announcement, varied and demonstrating a wide range of community involvement. Job Fit – Experience evaluated for how well past experience aligns with and meets the business needs of this position; current experience preferred. Equal Opportunity / EEO Statement History Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Employment opportunities are provided to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Colorado