What are the responsibilities and job description for the Collections Associate position at The University of New Mexico?
Position Summary
Under supervision of the Sr. Collections Manager for Archaeology, the Archaeology Collections Associate will assist in the management of all aspects of archaeological collections care, including processing boxes of excavated materials, cataloguing, inventorying, and preventative conservation. Tasks also include reviewing museum records and archival materials on file in the Museum; updating database records; and assisting with compiling information to respond to collection queries. The assistant will help prepare collections for loan, research, exhibit, and educational / community visits, and assist in the supervision of university students and community volunteers working with collections. This is a full-time, 5-year term position, with possibility for renewal.
Duties and Responsibilities
1. Assist the Sr. Collections Manager for Archaeology in inventorying, processing, cataloguing, photographing, and preventative conservation of existing and new museum collections at the museum and its offsite storage facilities.
2. Perform database updates, develop metadata and digitize the collection. Prepare lists and database reports for museum staff, researchers, faculty, students, and community members.
3. Assist with lab management activities including monitoring and ordering supplies and preparing spaces for workers and researchers.
4. Assist with preparing collections materials for loan, research, exhibit, and educational purposes.
5. Supervise the work of volunteers and students engaged in collection management related activities.
6. Complete collection management tasks for the respectful care and curation of Native American cultural collections, according to consultation with Tribal representatives, and assist with NAGPRA duties as required.
7. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Conditions of Employment Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of and experience working with archaeological collections, particularly the material culture of Native American groups in the . Southwest.
- Familiar with archaeological excavation methods and documentation.
- Knowledge of archaeological museum and / or lab collection policies, practices, and procedures.
- Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports. Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated computer proficiency, including experience utilizing museum collections databases, Microsoft Suite, Adobe Acrobat Pro, and scanning software.
- Experience working collaboratively as part of a team of professionals.
- Experience working on a variety of tasks, meeting deadlines, and demonstrated attention to detail while working on complex projects.
- Familiarity with the ethical and legal requirements of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
Additional Requirements CampusMain - Albuquerque, NM DepartmentMaxwell Museum (937B) Employment TypeStaff Staff TypeTerm - Full-Time Term End DateOne year from date of hire; which may be renewed. StatusExempt PayMonthly : $3657.33 - $3750.00 (DOE) Benefits EligibleThis is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the home page for a more information.
