Artifact Inventory Registrar — Museum Collections

Computer History Museum; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental and vision benefits

HSA with employer contributions

403(b) retirement plan with matching

Generous PTO

Life and Disability insurance

Employee discounts

Job summary

Computer History Museum in Milpitas, CA seeks a Project Registrar to execute a multi-year artifact inventory, update locations in the CMS, and photograph items for cataloging. The role works with volunteers and the Collections team to maintain high accuracy and safety standards.

The position is full-time, on-site at CHM’s Milpitas facility, requiring up to 40 hours weekly and occasional work at Mountain View as project needs dictate. Compensation is hourly.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Museum Studies or related field with 2–3 years hands-on museum experience.
• Experience using a collections management system such as Mimsy XG, TMS, or similar.
• Knowledge of collections storage, handling, cataloging, location control, and preventive conservation.
• Experience photographing objects for documentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in a collections storage or warehouse environment.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and operate pallet jack, with or without accommodations.
• Valid California driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inventory and photography of 40,000+ artifacts following procedures and standards.
• Retrieve, handle, document, and return artifacts using safe practices.
• Verify artifact locations against CMS records and update accordingly.
• Take and name high-quality reference photos for CMS.
• Maintain inventory progress documentation in the project tracker.
• Add inventory details to catalog records indicating located artifacts.
• Identify artifacts not located and flag records for review.
• Identify uncatalogued/misidentified items for review by managers.
• Monitor progress toward inventory goals and report issues affecting timelines or accuracy.
• Collaborate with Project Manager, Collections staff, and volunteers.
• Follow CHM policies on care, storage, documentation, safety, and security.
• Perform other collections duties as needed.

Skills

Artifact handling

Photo documentation

CMS experience

Written communication

Physical stamina

Education

Master’s degree in Museum Studies

2–3 years collection experience

Tools

Mimsy XG

TMS

Job description

Computer History Museum in Milpitas, CA seeks a Project Registrar to execute a multi-year artifact inventory, update locations in the CMS, and photograph items for cataloging. The role works with volunteers and the Collections team to maintain high accuracy and safety standards.

The position is full-time, on-site at CHM’s Milpitas facility, requiring up to 40 hours weekly and occasional work at Mountain View as project needs dictate. Compensation is hourly.