Records Management Support at the Mount Desert Island Historical Society

Job Title: Records Management Support
Mount Desert Island Historical Society
Start: Immediately, End: Completion of the project

The Mount Desert Island Historical Society is seeking a one-time contractor to correct and improve collections data recorded in Past Perfect Museum software. Over many years, volunteers and staff have used different data entry standards which has created records that are inconsistent, missing information, or have incorrect information. The Society will be exporting Past Perfect data to Digital Archive, an on-line management system for public access, but before that can take place, errors in the records need to be fixed. There are approximately 9,000 records that need correcting and the Historical Society will provide a list of records and errors to work from.

Responsibilities Include:

  • Reviewing data reports provided by MDI Historical Society
  • Changing and adjusting entries into Past Perfect software based on reported errors
  • Learn how to enter data properly based on digital archive standards
  • Research in collections records to ensure accuracy in updated records, might include provenance research, object name or identification, donor, etc.
  • Draft of data entry standards and procedures that can be used by MDI Historical Society staff and volunteers for future records entry
  • Batching groups of corrected records to publish on the Digital Archive
  • Weekly status report submitted to the Society listing the records completed and ready to be exported

Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with Past Perfect museum software
  • Experience working with collection records and databases
  • Can work remotely to access the Historical Society’s software
  • Attention to detail
  • Strong communication skills

Compensation:
The Society will make payments of $1,000 for every 400 records completed and shared to the digital archive, for a total payment not to exceed $20,000. The contractor will be responsible for keeping the Society updated on his/her progress, invoicing the Society at the end of every batch, and the quality of the work. A bonus will be available at the end of the project based on speed and accuracy of data entry.

To apply send a resume and cover letter to Raney Bench at raney@mdihistory.org. The position is open until filled.