Curator Archivist

University of Oklahoma; Norman (OK); On-site; USD 24,796 - 27,552; Full time

Job summary

The University of Oklahoma is seeking a Curator Archivist to manage the SNOMNH Fish Collection and oversee daily curatorial operations. You will develop and maintain the collection, database, image library, and support research and exhibition programs.

You will ensure proper permits for field collection and loans, assist researchers, organize presentations, and train students, interns, and volunteers while guiding visitors in using the collection.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• MS or PhD preferred in natural history-related field with emphasis in fish biology.
• 36–48 months of collection-related experience in natural history museums or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of fish systematics and biology.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily curatorial operations of the SNOMNH Fish Collection.
• Develop and maintain the collection, database, and image library; support research and exhibition programs.
• Maintain the Fish Collection website and online database; ensure proper permits and documentation for field collection and loan/exchange of specimens.
• Assist researchers, faculty, scholars and students in obtaining and identifying specimens; organize presentations highlighting materials and research activities.
• Train and supervise students, interns and volunteers and help visitors use the collection.
• Assist in organizing and preparing presentations and programs highlighting collection materials and research activities.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Pay Range: Targeted salary $18.99 per hour, based on experience

Benefits Eligible: Yes

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (may include some weekends)

Travel: May be required

For Best Consideration Date: 8/1/2026

Position Introduction

The Curator Archivist is responsible for the daily curatorial operations and management of the SNOMNH Fish Collection. Develop and maintain the collection, database, and support research and exhibition programs. Maintain the Fish Collection website, including the online database and image library. Ensure proper permits and documentation for field collection and loan and exchange of museum specimens. Assist curator, faculty, scholars, and students in obtaining and identifying specimens for their research projects. Assist in organizing and preparing presentations and programs highlighting collection materials and research activities. Train and supervise students, interns and volunteers, and helping visitors make use of the collection.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree.

Department Preferences

• Graduate degree (M.S. or PhD) in a discipline relevant to natural history collections, such as Biology, Biological Sciences, Museum Studies, or a related field, with an emphasis in fish biology.
• 36–48 months of collection‑related experience in natural history museum collections, including some to all the following: curation, collection and database management, registration, digitization, and preparation of fish specimens (wet and dry collections), or academic experience working with collections in a museum, educational or similar public institution.
• Demonstrated knowledge of fish systematics and biology.
• Experience in the preparation and preservation of fishes and genomic resources.
• Experience with database management and relational databases and knowledge of external data repositories such as GBIF.
• Proficiency in using microscopes and other equipment essential for laboratory biological collections work.
• SCUBA certification (e.g., PADI/SSI Open Water or higher).

Hiring Contingent Upon a Background Check: Yes