Curatorial Assistant

SUPERVISED BY: Operations Manager PURPOSE OF ROLE: Assist with assembling, cataloging, registering, and managing museum collections.

DUTIES MAY INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

Arrive at the museum at least 6 minutes before your assigned time. Keep informed regarding changes in museum exhibits and/or procedures. Review information shared on Volunteer Message Board. Maintain and update accurate records pertaining to the collection, using a variety of collections management systems. Provide curatorial assistance with collections, including cataloging, photography, and artifact management. Ensure safe storage of collection pieces. Assist in setting up and/or assembling artifacts for exhibits. Perform general housekeeping duties related to the collection, i.e. dusting. Other related tasks as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Age 18 or older
• High School graduate
• Detail-oriented
• Flexible
• Reliable, responsible

Extensive prior knowledge of Chenango County history is unnecessary, but assistants should have a working knowledge of American history and a desire to learn.

DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES:

• Able to accept supervision and work independently
• Comfortable taking digital photos and using a computerized database
• Neat penmanship
• Punctual and reliable

MANDATORY TRAINING/ORIENTATION PROVIDED:

General overview of safety procedures, insurance waiver, collections care, and anti-harassment policies. Total time involved in mandatory training is no more than three hours Assistants receive training while in the office on a per-project basis. This “on-the-job training” enables volunteers to learn more about day-to-day operations.

TIME COMMITMENT:

Volunteers have the flexibility to create their own schedule around the needs of the collection’s needs. Office hours are 9 am through 4 pm, Wednesday through Saturday, from February through December.

ATTIRE:

Volunteers should wear clothing appropriate for working in an office setting; business-casual attire and sturdy, close-toed shoes are recommended. Jewelry and piercings should be minimal and worn in moderation. Chenango County Historical Society