MUSEUM SPECIALIST

State of Arkansas; Helena-West Helena (AR); On-site; USD 13,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

The Museum Specialist role at the State of Arkansas focuses on preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting historical artifacts at the DAH - Delta Cultural Center. You will manage collections, assist with research, and engage the public through educational programs.

Responsibilities include cataloging artifacts, ensuring proper conservation, updating display content, and supporting visitor learning. Strong attention to detail and communication are essential for success in this state-operated museum

Qualifications

• Six months of museum operations, historical research, or related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication for exhibit content.
• Familiarity with digitization and archival methods.

Responsibilities

• Catalog, document, and store artifacts and collections.
• Apply conservation techniques to preserve objects.
• Maintain records of acquisitions, loans and exhibits.
• Assist in handling and installing exhibits and artifacts.
• Contribute to exhibit design, content writing, and multimedia deliveries.
• Plan and deliver educational programs, tours, and events.
• Provide information and interpretation to visitors and researchers.
• Conduct historical research to enhance exhibits and archives.
• Maintain museum archives and digital databases.
• Assist in reports, grants, and publications.

Skills

Attention to detail

Historical analysis

Communication skills

Digitization experience

Interpersonal skills

Tools

Museum cataloging software

Job description

Location: DAH - Delta Cultural Center -AH02

County: Phillips

Anticipated Starting Salary: $11.22 per hour

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism has three major divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Arkansas State Parks manages 52 state parks and promotes Arkansas as a tourist destination for people around the country. Arkansas Heritage preserves and promotes Arkansas’s natural and cultural history and heritage through four historic museums and four cultural preservation agencies. Arkansas Tourism improves the state’s economy by generating travel and enhancing the image of the state.

Position Information

Position Number: 22092762

Location: DAH - Delta Cultural Center -AH02

County: Phillips

Anticipated Starting Salary: $11.22 per hour

Job Series: Museums and Archives – Career Path

Classification: Museum Specialist

Class Code: RMA11P

Pay Grade: SGS02

Salary Range: $35,610- $52,703

Job Summary

The Museum Specialist is responsible for the preservation, interpretation, and exhibition of historical artifacts, collections, and displays in a state-operated museum. This position involves collections management, research, exhibit preparation, and public engagement to ensure the accessibility and educational value of museum resources.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist in the cataloging, documentation, and storage of artifacts and museum collections.
• Ensure proper conservation techniques are applied to preserve historical objects and archival materials.
• Conduct inventory audits and maintain accurate records of acquisitions, loans, and exhibits.
• Assist in the handling, transportation, and installation of exhibits and artifacts.
• Contribute to the design and installation of museum exhibits, ensuring historical accuracy and visitor engagement.
• Assist in researching, writing, and updating exhibit content such as labels, guides, and multimedia presentations.
• Assist in the planning and delivery of educational programs, tours, and special events for diverse audiences.
• Provide informational and interpretive services to museum visitors, including schools, researchers, and the general public.
• Conduct historical and artifact research to enhance exhibits and collections.
• Maintain and update museum archives, collection records, and digital databases.
• Assist with the preparation of reports, grant proposals, and publications related to museum activities.
• Monitor museum security and environmental conditions to ensure the protection of artifacts and collections.

Knowledge And Skills

• Strong attention to detail for cataloging and preserving artifacts.
• Ability to analyze historical objects and documents for classification and display.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for exhibit content and educational programs.
• Ability to summarize and present historical information in an engaging manner.
• Experience with historical research and museum best practices preferred.
• Familiarity with digitization, archival methods, and exhibit preparation tools.
• Ability to handle delicate and historical artifacts with precision.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage with visitors, educators, and other entities.

Minimum Qualifications

At least 6 months of experience in museum operations, historical research, or a related field.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.