Curatorial Assistant

Assist with assembling, cataloging, registering, and managing museum collections.

SUPERVISED BY: Operations Manager

PURPOSE OF ROLE: Assist with assembling, cataloging, registering, and managing museum collections.

DUTIES MAY INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

1. Arrive at the museum at least 6 minutes before your assigned time.
2. Keep informed regarding changes in museum exhibits and/or procedures.
3. Review information shared on Volunteer Message Board.
4. Maintain and update accurate records pertaining to the collection, using a variety of collections management systems.
5. Provide curatorial assistance with collections, including cataloging, photography, and artifact management.
6. Ensure safe storage of collection pieces.
7. Assist in setting up and/or assembling artifacts for exhibits.
8. Perform general housekeeping duties related to the collection, i.e. dusting.
9. 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.