Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: H2002 / Curator 2
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Exempt
Grade: 11

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 limited supervision, plans and directs the physical and intellectual care of the collections. Performs research and prepares publications for the collection, assists with conservation and preservation concerns, updates and maintains accurate records. Coordinates all aspects of exhibition planning, development and preparation, including the execution of primary and secondary research, development and preparation of interpretive materials, coordination of loans and exhibitions activities, and all other associated day-to-day operations of a museum.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Develops and curates exhibitions and provides subject specialist expertise for curatorial projects and collections documentation.
  2. Coordinates the daily operations of the museum's curatorial functions, to include research on university collections in support of publications and/or exhibitions.
  3. Conceptualizes, develops, and curates exhibitions, museum-related public programs/events, and publications.
  4. Coordinates guest-curated exhibitions, touring exhibitions, outreach programs, and museum-related public programs/events.
  5. Coordinates outreach programs and public relations events related to the collection.
  6. Interacts with the local scholarly and museum community and responds to research requests related to the collections.
  7. Conducts research on proposed gifts and/or acquisitions to advise the Director and/or Acquisitions Committee.
  8. May participate in hiring and oversees the work staff and/or students engaged in project work and/or operational support work.
  9. Participates in long-term exhibit planning and development.
  10. May train lower lever staff, students, and/or volunteers.
  11. Participates in departmental meetings and serves on working committees; collaborates with other staff members in long range planning.
  12. May supervise lower graded staff and/or student employees.
  13. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree; at least 3 years 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

  • Knowledge of current museum practices and curatorial methodologies.
  • A high degree of initiative, good judgment and ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
  • Ability to plan, organize, and implement exhibitions.
  • Strong communication skills; demonstrated excellence in writing and editorial skills.
  • Knowledge in subject field, including research principles, techniques, standards and procedures.
  • Ability to research and prepare project budgets.

Distinguishing Characteristics

    Position requires: a) Coordinating and ensuring the proper physical and intellectual care of the collections; b) performing research to support publications and exhibitions; c) organizing and implementing exhibitions, public programs and publications.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt dust, fumes, unpleasant odors and loud noises.
  • 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.
  • Work may be performed in an office, museum, or field environment.

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

Revised Date: 03/20/2017