Collection Manager (Full-Time Position)

Deadline for Applications: March 15th, 2024

Summary:

This is a full-time leadership position responsible for organizing, managing, evaluating, exhibiting, and researching the Historic Clay District’s extensive artefact collections, which include, but are not limited to, historic pottery, industrial equipment and contemporary ceramics.  The Collection Coordinator will oversee the conservation and preservation of current inventory, as well as the acquisition of additional artefacts, appropriate to the goals of the District.  In addition, the Collection Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the use and disposition of specific tangible heritage and heritage-related assets of the District, including those not yet catalogued.  

Reports to: Executive Director

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

The Collection Coordinator manages and develops the artefact collection and ensures that it is being maintained and used according to meet and exceed documented AMA guidelines, and in the best interests of the Historic Clay District.  In addition, the Collection Coordinator oversees and coordinates Special Projects related to the ongoing effort to identify and document all tangible heritage artefacts throughout the Historic Clay District.    

Specifically, the Collection Coordinator shall: 

  • Organize, document and cause to be kept safe, the various artefacts and collections throughout the Historic Clay District, in accordance with approved collection standards and policy.
  • Consult with appropriate experts to verify age, significance and valuation of artefacts in the collection.
  • Research and recommend collection standards for the Historic Clay District in accordance with accepted AMA guidelines.
  • Research and recommend policy relevant to management and procurement of the artefact collections 
  • Assist in curating historical exhibitions at all Historic Clay District venues.
  • Develop and oversee an effective strategy to identify, document and conserve the tangible heritage assets that are found throughout the factory buildings that comprise the Historic Clay District, and to oversee and coordinate any Special Projects related to such conservation.
  • Work with other members of the Historic Clay District team on special events functions that benefit the District, as assigned. 
  • Undertake related tasks and projects consistent with these responsibilities, as assigned.  
  • Manage staff and volunteers and provide training, support and evaluation of their work.
  • Oversee the movement of artefacts within the Historic Clay District.

Necessary Training and Experience:

  • Minimum: BA , BFA degree or Arts Diploma (Art, Museum Studies or related field) 
  • A minimum of two years successful experience working in a related environment
  • Background in collections management preferred
  • Background in arts administration preferred
  • An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered

Necessary Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:

  • Knowledge of and experience in artefact assessment, conservation and management
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, along with the demonstrated ability to establish effective working relationships with the public and team members
  • Excellent organizational skills, oral and written communication skills
  • Highly developed computer skills consistent with the position
  • Basic knowledge of the ceramic processes as related to the collection is essential

Salary / Contract Range:

  • Commensurate with experience; based on Medalta’s current salary grid.

To apply please send your resume and cover letter to laurie@medalta.org 

Only candidates whose skills closely match the requirements will be contacted.