Collections Manager

Major Objectives:    The Collections Manager oversees the care, documentation, and management of the Minnesota Discovery Center's extensive collection of 2D archives (photographs, maps, documents, etc.) and 3D artifacts (tools, textiles, cultural objects, etc.). This role ensures the preservation and accessibility of the collection for research, exhibitions, and public engagement while upholding best practices in museum collections management and conservation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies, Library Science, History, Anthropology, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum 3 years of experience in collections and archive management, including 2D archives and 3D artifacts.
• Proficiency with collections management software (e.g., PastPerfect, TMS, or similar).
• Strong knowledge of museum-standard collections care and preventive conservation practices.
• Familiarity with digitization technologies and digital asset management.
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with diverse audiences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities:

Collections Care & Management:

• Ensure the proper handling, storage, and conservation of 2D archives and 3D artifacts, maintaining environmental and physical security standards.
• Oversee cataloging and inventory of all collection items using the museum's collections management system (CMS).
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures for acquisitions, deaccessions, loans, and object handling.
• Coordinate with professional conservators for specialized conservation needs.
  
  Documentation & Accessibility:
• Accurately document all collection items, ensuring metadata and provenance records are complete and up to date.
• Manage digitization initiatives for 2D archives and key 3D artifacts to expand accessibility.
• Collaborate with researchers, educators, and the public to facilitate access to the collection.
• Maintain a system for licensing and monitoring use of images from the collections.
  
  Exhibition Support:
• Work with the Exhibitions Team to select, prepare, and display artifacts and archival materials.
• Assist with installation and deinstallation of exhibitions, ensuring proper artifact care.
• Provide input on interpretive approaches to connect objects with regional history and culture.
  
  Research & Community Engagement:
• Support research inquiries from scholars, educators, and the public.
• Build relationships with community stakeholders to enhance the collection's relevance and scope, particularly regarding underrepresented histories.
• Conduct occasional presentations, workshops, or tours to promote the collection.
  
  Administrative & Leadership Responsibilities:
• Prepare and manage the collections budget, including grant applications for collection care and improvement projects.
• Supervise interns, volunteers, and collections assistants.
• Ensure compliance with ethical and legal standards, including adherence to NAGPRA and other applicable guidelines.

Working conditions:

• Ability to lift and move objects up to 40 lbs.
• Comfort working in storage environments with varied conditions (e.g., cool temperatures).
• Manual dexterity for handling delicate objects.

Salary : $26