Museum Collection Officer

Position Overview

The Museum Collection Officer is responsible for the management, care, and documentation of the museum's collections. This role ensures the preservation, security, and accessibility of artifacts, artworks, and archival materials, supporting the museum’s mission to educate and inspire the public. The Collection Officer works closely with curators, registrars, conservators, and other museum staff to maintain the highest standards of collection stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the acquisition, cataloging, storage, and movement of objects in the museum’s collection.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in the collection management system, including provenance, condition, and location of all items.
• Coordinate and conduct regular inventories and condition assessments of objects.
• Ensure proper handling, packing, and transportation of artifacts for exhibitions, loans, and storage.
• Implement and monitor environmental controls to preserve collections, including temperature, humidity, and lighting conditions.
• Develop and update collection policies and procedures in line with museum best practices and legal requirements.
• Assist in the planning and installation of exhibitions, working with curators and exhibition teams.
• Facilitate incoming and outgoing loans, including loan documentation and insurance requirements.
• Respond to public and scholarly inquiries regarding the collection and provide access to materials as appropriate.
• Support conservation activities by identifying items in need of treatment and coordinating with conservators.
• Train and supervise volunteers, interns, and junior staff involved in collection-related activities.
• Participate in emergency preparedness and response planning for the collection.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies, Art History, Archaeology, Library Science, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Experience working with museum collections, either through internships or previous employment.
• Knowledge of museum standards and best practices for collection care, documentation, and preservation.
• Familiarity with collection management software and digital cataloging systems.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Physical ability to handle and move collection objects safely.

Working Conditions

• Position may require occasional evening or weekend hours for special events, exhibition installations, or emergencies.
• Work involves periods of standing, walking, bending, and lifting.

Some tasks may be performed in climate-controlled storage areas or off-site locations