Historic Site Curator & Collections Leader

Montgomery County Pennsylvania; Norristown (Montgomery County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Montgomery County Pennsylvania is seeking a Curator to manage all aspects of historic site collections, including care, conservation, organization, records, storage, exhibition and security. The role directs collection activities, liaises with risk management, and leads public tours.

The Curator will supervise staff and volunteers, coordinate exhibitions, monitor environmental conditions, and develop disaster readiness plans in alignment with the division’s objectives.

Qualifications

• Minimum two (2) years' experience in collection management, material culture or conservation.
• Experience with living history and/or historical re-enactment preferred.
• Must have Bachelor's Degree in Museum Studies, American History, Collection Management, Material Culture, Conservation, Art History or related field or five (5) years commensurate experience.
• Knowledge of current best practices and procedures for collections and historic site management including museum ethics.
• Must have competent computer skills including knowledge of collection management software (Past Perfect).
• Must be able to read/write/speak English.
• Must project a pleasant and professional presence when interacting with the public.
• Ability to communicate effectively and possess good public speaking skills.
• Expected to participate in appropriate organizations and affiliations related to the field, including the division's Collection Committee.
• Must successfully pass PA State Police Criminal Record Check.
• Must possess a valid Driver's License, a satisfactory driving record and the ability to maintain one throughout employment.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prioritize, direct and physically manage collections including all paperwork, computer databases, object inventories, housekeeping, internal and external movements (loans) and storage in keeping with the division's Collection Management Plan.
• Make recommendations to and work with the division's Collection Committee regarding accepting donations, loans, and deaccessioning of collections.
• Coordinate with County Risk Management for insurance paperwork for collection items.
• Work with professional conservators, framers and artisans regarding work with collection and exhibition items.
• Oversee collection publication and reproduction rights and handle queries related to collections.
• Supervise and train staff, volunteers, interns and researchers working with collections.
• Research and coordinate exhibit themes and topics, develop installation techniques, prepare and install labels and objects for exhibits.
• Monitor environmental conditions and pest management; monitor collection security.
• Develop and implement disaster preparedness policies; participate in cleaning schedules and procedures.
• Identify, write and administer grants for collections, conservation, exhibits and related projects.
• Compile information and write reports, articles, brochures.
• Create public programs related to site collections and curatorial practices; conduct regular public tours.
• Perform regional curatorial duties and assist other regions on large projects.
• Attend required training; perform other duties as assigned.

Job description

Montgomery County Pennsylvania is seeking a Curator to manage all aspects of historic site collections, including care, conservation, organization, records, storage, exhibition and security. The role directs collection activities, liaises with risk management, and leads public tours.

The Curator will supervise staff and volunteers, coordinate exhibitions, monitor environmental conditions, and develop disaster readiness plans in alignment with the division’s objectives.