Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: H0020 / Curatorial Assistant
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 07

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Under direct supervision, provides support to all day-to-day aspects of the care of a specified museum collection, including assisting in the planning, development, research, and implementation of collection exhibitions, touring exhibitions and/or curated exhibitions organized with incoming loans, or touring exhibition.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Coordinates the safe retrieval and return to storage of collection pieces; assists in the setting up and/or assembly of pieces for display.
  2. Schedules and coordinates the routine aspects of day-to-day usage of the collection as appropriate, and performs general housekeeping duties.
  3. Maintains and updates accurate records pertaining to the collection, using a computerized collections management system.
  4. Assists in exhibition curation as directed, to include retrieval of materials, researching and verifying information, coorespondence with lenders, artist, and donors, and generating exhibition copy.
  5. Provides information and answers or refers questions about the collection as requested.
  6. Performs general collections duties, to include assistance with collection acquisitions and loans, recommendation of works/artifacts for restoration, and participation in day-to-day operational decision making.
  7. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree; at least 6 months of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
  • Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Records maintenance skills.
  • Skill in the appropriate handling, crating, and storage of museum-quality artwork and/or artificacts.
  • Proficiency in the use of computers and Microsoft Office software.
  • Skill in manipulating databases.
  • Knowledge of exhibit preparation procedures.
  • Knowledge of basic muesum processes and procedures.
  • Ability to understand and follow complex, detailed technical instructions.
  • Informational research skills.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Work may be performed in an office environment, museum environment or field environment.
  • Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
  • No or very limited exposure to physical risk.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 03/20/2017