Collections Specialist 2: Fossils (Vertebrate Paleontology)

The Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections.; Toronto; On-site; CAD 83,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Collections Specialist 2 to enhance the care and accessibility of its renowned fossil collections. This role is pivotal in managing over 130,000 vertebrate fossil specimens and contributing to innovative solutions for collections stewardship. The successful candidate will engage with the global scientific community, ensuring the integrity and documentation of invaluable natural history resources. Join a dynamic team dedicated to advancing research and education while enjoying comprehensive benefits and a collaborative work environment. If you are eager to make an impact in a leading museum, this opportunity is for you.

Benefits

100% premium-free benefits

Health spending account

Flexible working options

Employee Assistance Program

Parental leave top-up

Free ROM membership

Discounts to attractions

Qualifications

• Degree in paleontology or related field required.
• Experience with fossil collections and management practices essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage and preserve Vertebrate and Invertebrate Fossils collections.
• Facilitate access for researchers and support scholarly use.

Skills

Fossil Taxonomy

Collections Management

Database Management

Preventive Conservation

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving

Education

Degree in Paleontology

Degree in Museum Studies

Degree in Biology

Tools

Collections Database Systems (e.g., TMS)

Job description

WHO WE ARE
Canada’s largest and most comprehensive museum, ROM, is home to a world-class collection of artworks, cultural objects and natural history specimens featured in 40 gallery and exhibition spaces. As the country’s preeminent field research institute and an international leader in new discoveries, ROM plays a vital role in advancing our understanding of the artistic, cultural and natural world. Join our team at ROM and consider a fulfilling career as Collections Specialist 2 – Fossils (CS2).

WHO WE NEED
We are seeking a knowledgeable and detail-oriented Collections Specialist 2 (CS2) to support the care, preservation, and accessibility of the ROM’s world-renowned Fossil collections, with a primary focus on Vertebrate Fossils. This collection encompasses over 130,000 specimens, with notable strengths in Cretaceous dinosaurs from Alberta, ichthyosaurs, Tertiary mammals from Saskatchewan, and Quaternary mammals and birds. As one of our most actively researched and accessed Natural History collections, this role plays a vital part in coordinating visits, collaborations, and access for the global scientific community.

The CS2 will also contribute to collections care and databasing projects within the Invertebrate Fossils collection, which includes more than 400,000 specimens—most notably, the internationally recognized Burgess Shale collection. With substantial rehousing and databasing needs in both areas, the successful candidate will bring hands-on experience in fossil collection stewardship and a strong grounding in the taxonomy and systematics of fossil vertebrates.

This position is ideal for a candidate passionate about advancing strategic collections initiatives and contributing to innovative care solutions within a dynamic and research-driven museum environment.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

• Ensure the long-term preservation, accessibility, and integrity of ROM’s Vertebrate and Invertebrate Fossils collections through expert collections management practices, including rehousing, databasing, and preventive care.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for visiting researchers, facilitating access to specimens and supporting the scholarly use of the Vertebrate Paleontology collection—the most frequently accessed Natural History collection at ROM.
• Collaborate across departments to advance strategic initiatives in collections stewardship, contributing to innovative solutions that enhance care, accessibility, and documentation.
• Support major databasing projects and digital initiatives aimed at increasing global access to the collections, with a particular focus on under-documented areas and high-priority specimens.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to the development of policies, workflows, and standards related to collections, ensuring best practices in fossil specimen care.
• Participate in institutional priorities and projects that support ROM’s mission to connect art, culture, and nature while strengthening the role of collections in research, education, and public engagement.

WHAT YOU BRING

• A degree in paleontology, museum studies, biology, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of fossil taxonomy and systematics, with experience handling and caring for both vertebrate and invertebrate fossil specimens.
• Proven experience with collections management practices, including database management, cataloging, rehousing, and preventive conservation of natural history collections.
• Familiarity with collections database systems (e.g., TMS or similar) and digital tools for documentation and data accessibility.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain meticulous attention to detail.
• A collaborative approach and effective communication skills to support partnerships with researchers, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
• A proactive and problem-solving mindset, with a passion for contributing to the long-term stewardship of museum collections.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Comprehensive benefits coverage: For permanent and full-time contract positions (conditions apply), enjoy 100 percent premium-free benefits for individuals and families, a health spending account, flexible working options (varies by position), and an Employee Assistance Program.
• Worry-free retirement savings: With our pension plan, you benefit from an employer-matched Defined Benefit contribution plan, which provides predictable lifetime retirement income, survivor benefits, and early retirement options without the stress of investment decisions.
• Support for new parents: Enjoy a parental leave top-up to 95 percent of your salary for 17 weeks, helping you balance work and family life.
• Perks: Free ROM membership for permanent full-time and part-time staff, plus discounts to over 200 attractions through Attractions Ontario.
• And more!

SALARY & TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

• START DATE: July 1, 2025
• OPEN DATE: April 4, 2025
• CLOSE DATE: May 20, 2025
• STATUS: Full-time Permanent
• EMPLOYEE GROUP: OPSEU Local 543
• SALARY: $83,093 – $94,964
• SCHEDULE: 35 hours weekly
• PROBATIONARY PERIOD: Six (6) months
• LOCATION (onsite): Toronto, ON

INTERVIEW PROCESS

• Initial conversation: A 30-minute virtual conversation with a Recruiter to discuss your interest in the role and ROM and how you can make an impact.
• First interview: A 1-hour in-person or virtual interview with the Hiring Manager and a member of the HR team. This in-depth interview will focus on your skills and how they align with the team’s and ROM’s needs.
• Second interview: A 1-hour in-person meeting with the Hiring Manager and relevant team members. You may be asked to present a pre-assigned case study and discuss scenarios relevant to your role. Depending on the position, you might also be given a tour of ROM and receive a preview of your responsibilities and interactions.
• Third Interview: A final interview with key stakeholders.

The above-listed process may change or vary based on the nature and scope of the position.

**All virtual conversations and interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams and may be recorded.**

WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE ROM

• Cultural engagement: Daily interactions with Toronto’s diverse culture and international visitors offer insights into social and cultural trends. We champion inclusive community programs and connections through diverse experiences.
• Continuous learning: At ROM, expertise and continuous skill development are paramount. Our culture of curiosity and open-mindedness fosters growth beyond traditional career paths.
• Passion & fulfillment: Our work in preserving and curating cultural narratives brings deep satisfaction. We are passionate about the arts, global history, cultural diversity, and leveraging digital technologies to enhance accessibility.
• Team & culture: ROM promotes a positive workplace with collaborative, supportive teams that encourage creativity and innovation. We value new ideas and collective problem-solving.
• Academic collaboration: We are committed to education, partnering with universities and providing student resources, underscoring our dedication to research and accessibility.

If you’re excited about this role, even if your experience differs from the specific requirements, we encourage you to apply. We’re keen to meet candidates who can contribute their talents to our goals, and will consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & ACCESSIBILITY
At ROM, we embrace diversity in our exhibits, communities, and teams. We encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and those who can further diversify our ideas. We are committed to equitable employment opportunities and a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

We welcome and accommodate candidates with disabilities throughout the selection process. Please contact us at [e-mail] for assistance.

Apply today and help us create a collaborative, diverse, inclusive, and equitable space where creativity and learning flourish.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note that all candidates receiving a verbal job offer will be subject to a background check. This includes a criminal background check and verification of professional references, and other checks depending on the role.