Curator — Historic Collections & Exhibits

Commonwealth-of-Pennsylvania; Ephrata (Lancaster County); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission seeks a capable Curator to manage, care for, and interpret the Ephrata Cloister collections and historic structures in Lancaster County, PA. The role involves cataloging thousands of artifacts, managing loans, and guiding public programs and tours.

With a focus on research, documentation, and public outreach, the Curator will help tell the story of the 18th‑century religious community and its 28‑acre National Historic Landmark site, while

Qualifications

• One year as Museum Curator, History I, or equivalent curatorial experience in History, Decorative Arts, or related fields, with a master's degree in American History and a museum studies component or internship.
• Equivalent combinations of experience and training that provide the required knowledge and abilities will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Collection Management: Handle acquisitions, deaccessions, loans, cataloging, and inventorying of artifacts and archival materials.
• Artifact Care: Store, clean, and protect items in the collection and provide online access to materials.
• Historical Research: Research site history, answer public questions, and establish the background of collection pieces.
• Public Interpretation: Prepare and share information that helps visitors understand artifacts and the history of Ephrata Cloister.
• Tour Support: Assist with planning and leading special tours focused on unique historical topics.

Skills

Collection management

Artifact care

Historical research

Public interpretation

Tour support

Education

Master's degree in American History

Museum studies course or internship

Tools

Argus

Past Perfect

TMS

CatalogIt

Job description

The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission seeks a capable Curator to manage, care for, and interpret the Ephrata Cloister collections and historic structures in Lancaster County, PA. The role involves cataloging thousands of artifacts, managing loans, and guiding public programs and tours.

With a focus on research, documentation, and public outreach, the Curator will help tell the story of the 18th‑century religious community and its 28‑acre National Historic Landmark site, while