Full-time, 32hr/week; $16 per hour

Summary:

Directly manages and oversees the Mahaska County Historical Society’s physical and archival history collection, their acquisition, documentation, housing, use, preservation, disposition, and maintenance. Receives, prepares, and catalogs new materials. Manages the database of collection contents. Manages copyright permissions. Works directly with Museum Director on exhibit-related planning and artifact movement. Works directly with Museum Director to prepare recommendations on deaccessioning. Reports directly to Museum Director.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manages all aspects of collections care, following and implementing accepted museum professional standards and practices. Directly manages the acquisition, documentation, care, maintenance and handling, use and access, copyright, security, environmental monitoring of objects and facilities, and object-based database development, paper files and archives.
• In collaboration with the Museum Director, establishes object conservation priorities and plans/implements the safe storage of all objects in the collection.
• Manages database development for all collections materials. Is responsible for system security, digitization of images to be included in the database, periodic software upgrades and database system migrations, metadata development and development of database search capabilities.
• Performs archival research on collection materials and/or artifacts for inclusion in records and databases including provenance research in coordination with the Museum Director.
• Assists in preparing proposals and grant applications for special collections-oriented projects.
• Serves on Collection committees (including any subcommittees created).
• In collaboration with the Museum Director, develops and curates new physical or digital exhibits and assists in renovations of existing exhibits.
• Researches, develops and/or implements collection-based programs, newsletter articles, or other written material for membership and public as required.
• May train and supervise interns, and/or volunteers performing related work; may participate in the recruitment of volunteers, as appropriate to the area of operation.
• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Secondary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as back up for essential day-to-day operations, including but not limited to answering the phone, greeting guests, taking admission, site orientation to visitors for self-guided tour, handling gift shop purchases, balancing cash box, and opening/closing procedure for buildings.
• May work the occasional weekend or evening to assist with special events/cover desk during programs.
• Assist Museum Director as needed with time-sensitive administrative duties.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Ability to supervise and train interns or volunteers, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
• Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
• Employee development and performance management skills.
• Database management skills, Past Perfect preferred.
• Knowledge of conservation and preservation techniques and/or procedures for museum collections.
• Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
• Ability to develop, plan, and implement short- and long-range goals.
• Knowledge of American, Iowa, and local history or curious personality to learn more about the subject.
• Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials.
• Ability to identify and secure alternative funding/revenue sources.
• Thorough knowledge of museum policies, practices, and procedures.
• Knowledge of management principles and practices.
• Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart information to a range of clientele.
• Skill in organizing museum exhibits.
• Ability to develop financial plans and manage resources.
• Knowledge of research methodology, principles, and procedures.

Physical requirements:

• Work may be conducted in outdoor settings, an office setting, or in the research library.
• Need to be able to lift 25 lbs. or more but also recognize getting assistance with heavier objects for personal safety and safety of artifact.
• May include long intervals of sitting or 3-4 hours standing or walking, depending on the task.
• Work may be in dusty environment or include deep cleaning of historic spaces or storage spaces. Basic PPE or other specific tools will be provided in those conditions.

Benefits:

• 160 hours personal time, available for use after a 90-day introductory period.
• 40 hours of professional development allotted with the organization’s support.

To Apply:

• Submit a resume, cover letter, and three (3) references to [email protected]

•  Applications will be received until March 31, 2024

Snapshot of Oskaloosa

• Oskaloosa, Iowa, recently received the Great Places and Thriving Community designation through the state of Iowa for its vibrant arts and culture community and its proactive and innovative efforts to provide housing and economic opportunities for its citizens. Oskaloosa is home to several national and international companies including Musco Sports Lighting, Clow Valve Company, Oskaloosa Food Products, and more. It has the 5th largest certified site for economic development in the state of Iowa and is home to dozens of locally-owned small businesses. It is also home to William Penn University and the Mahaska Health Partnership. Its vibrant historic downtown is one of the oldest Main Street Programs in the state of Iowa with shops and services available for residents and visitors alike. Mahaska County maintains 19 county parks with hiking, boating, and other outdoor recreational activities and is the location for Lake Keomah State Park.
• Oskaloosa is also an easy drive to larger metro areas. It is located 28 miles (30 minutes) from Ottumwa and 70 miles (60 minutes) from Des Moines.