Collections & Exhibits Coordinator

The primary responsibilities of the Coordinator are overseeing the management of the museum’s 6,000-item maritime-based collection, approximately half of which are archives, and developing and implementing exhibitions. This part-time position is generally 20 hours a week (and may expand during exhibition-season as needed). Days and timing are flexible. The AAM-accredited museum is a friendly workplace where individual talents are appreciated and creativity is encouraged.

Major duties include:

Collections

  • Maintain the database of accurate and thorough collection records and digital image library
  • Organize the movement, preparation, and cataloging of collections objects: acquisitions, deaccessions, loans, and internal use for both educational initiatives and exhibits
  • Assist in preparing proposals and grant applications for collections-oriented projects
  • Oversee the monitoring of environmental conditions and ensure proper care, storage, and display
  • Oversee logistics of loans, safe transport, and correspondence
  • Support and supervise research on collection items, both for staff and outside researchers
  • Supervise and/or train volunteers and interns working on collections-based projects; conduct training as needed for staff on collections-related subjects

Exhibits

  • Monitor gallery conditions and upkeep of museum exhibits; evaluate and oversee updates or upgrades
  • Research, develop, design, produce, and implement content and interpretive materials for new exhibitions, displays, and special projects
  • If needed, assistance in daily functions of the museum  

Other

  • Serve as staff liaison to outside institutions           
  • Other duties requested by the Executive Director

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in the appropriate field of study; Master’s preferred
  • Knowledge of best practices in collections policies and procedures & archival management
  • Knowledge of innovative, relevant, and education-centered exhibit development
  • Experience working with historic collections and/or archives
  • Knowledge of nomenclature and metadata standards for cataloging
  • High ethical standards in ensuring the security of the collection
  • Proficiency with PastPerfect
  • Graphic design skills helpful; knowledge of MS Publisher preferred
  • Knowledge of local maritime history helpful
  • Exceptional writing skills & vigilant proofreading
  • Self-starter and self-driven; adaptable with a positive, can-do approach, even when working with ambiguity or tight deadlines
  • Excellent organizational skills; attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple projects – essential in a small museum
  • Open, friendly communicator with strong interpersonal skills
  • Creative thinker with crafty, do-it-yourself ideas
  • Familiarity with photography and digitization processes
  • Valid driver’s license. Occasional travel.
  • Ability to lift 40 pounds

This position begins at $18 an hour. This at-will position reports to and is supervised by the Executive Director.  

TO APPLY: 

Required: Coverletter + Resume 

Strongly encouraged: 1) Work samples of projects and writing samples showing best practices, creativity and scholarship 2) List of three references. [If the applicant wishes to apply in confidence, please note this on a list of references, and references will not be contacted without consent from the candidate.] No phone calls, please. The Whaling Museum is an EOE Employer. 

Send ASAP to jobs@cshwhalingmuseum.org.