MUSEUM SPECIALIST

State of Arkansas; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 36,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

The Museum Specialist at the Old State House in Little Rock will preserve, interpret, and exhibit historical artifacts, coordinating collections, research, and exhibit preparation to ensure accessibility and educational value for visitors.

This role requires meticulous cataloging, strong written and verbal communication, and the ability to develop engaging educational programs and tours for diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• At least 6 months of museum operations or historical research experience.
• Promotion to higher classifications is discretionary based on performance.

Responsibilities

• Assist in cataloging, documentation, and storage of artifacts and collections.
• Ensure proper conservation techniques to preserve historical objects.
• Contribute to exhibit design, labels, guides, and multimedia content.
• Plan and deliver educational programs, tours, and events for diverse audiences.
• Maintain museum archives, records, and digital databases.

Skills

Attention to detail

Historical research

Exhibit content writing

Digitization familiarity

Artifact handling

Interpersonal skills

Job description

Position Number: 22092716

Location: DAH - Old State House -AH03

County: Pulaski

Anticipated Starting Salary: $17.12 per hour

This position is located at the Old State House in Little Rock.

Must be willing to work weekends.

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

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, 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.

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.