Job Description
Job DescriptionDescription:
Position Summary
The Museum Specialist (Junior) will support the access, preservation, and accountability of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s (BEP) Historical Products Collection — also referred to as "Objects." This role focuses on organizing, cataloging, preserving, and inventorying Objects within a collections management system. The Historical Research Center (HRC) currently uses Argus and is transitioning to Gallery Systems TMS.
Key Responsibilities
- Organize, label, house, arrange, move, and store Objects to ensure they are stable, secure, and accessible both physically and via the CMDB.
- Catalog new Objects and update existing records in the CMDB.
- Support digitization efforts by verifying digital image file names and attaching accurate images to corresponding CMDB records.
- Maintain administrative files related to accessions, deaccessions, loans, transfers, and related materials.
- Conduct Object research using the BEP Reference Library and internal resources to support accurate identification and cataloging.
- Assist with policy and procedure development related to collection management and preservation.
- Monitor and maintain archival supplies; assess needs and provide procurement info to HRC purchasing staff.
- Perform housekeeping duties in storage areas, including environmental monitoring and cleanliness.
- Inspect Objects for signs of deterioration; document concerns and implement stabilization measures under guidance.
- Support physical inventories and respond to internal and external requests for information, images, and access to collection materials.
- Provide support for BEP’s product design, outreach, and historical presentations.
Requirements:
- At least 18 months of experience in two or more of the following: museum cataloging, collection management, library/archive work, or object handling.
- Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution in a relevant field such as museum studies, library sciences, history, art history, fine arts, or information sciences.
- Experience with museum collections management databases (CMDB); familiarity with Gallery Systems TMS is strongly preferred.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Interest in historical preservation and public access initiatives.