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 minimal supervision, provides specialized management and care for a science collection. Actively participates in development and implementation of collection management policies and procedures; directly manages the acquisition, documentation, preservation, and growth of museum collections and materials. Manages collection-based databases, supports and leads research, and provides supervision and guidance to others.
Duties and Responsibilities
Manages all aspects of collections care by following and implementing best practices for processing and cataloging incoming material and associated archives, data entry, maintenance of systematic order, and routine-to-intermediate complexity care and conservation; maintains and works to improve the physical condition of the collection and corresponding records.
Manages databases of specimen records and transactions following established guidelines. Increases efficiency, accessibility, and usage of physical records and associated data. Monitors, evaluates, and participates in long-term planning regarding database applications.
Establishes work priorities in consultation with the Curator and directs staff to accomplish goals and objectives; recruits, employs, trains and supervises students, volunteers, and staff.
Interacts with the national and international scientific community, including verifying, acquiring, and updating permits; managing loans; responding to inquiries; and maximizing utilization of the collections to support scholarly research. Maintains records on collection use and growth.
Supports the development and management of departmental budget. Manages contracts and grants with supervision. Purchases materials and supplies. Writes fiscal year-end reports.
Interacts with internal contacts such as faculty, curators, museum staff, and various University administrators regarding the collections. Represents the museum through public education, outreach programs, educational events, and other museum services (tours, lectures, science fairs, etc).
Monitors physical space to assess atmospheric and structural stability within and around collection. Advises regarding infrastructure needs and participates in new construction and remodel planning.
Engages in professional activities including managing electronic resources or digital data/databases, designing and installing exhibits, organizing workshops/webinars, participating in professional organizations and working groups, trainings, conducting research, and/or authoring or editing publications.
Maintains currency of knowledge through a variety of professional development activities, professional education, and/or committee participation.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
Master'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
Comprehensive knowledge of collection management principles, procedures, and materials.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
Ability to use informed judgment and to manage and impart information to a wide range of clientele.
Knowledge in field of specialty in science.
Knowledge of field and/or laboratory procedures and techniques for research and collection purposes.
Ability to assist researchers to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
Skill in the use of computer spreadsheet and/or database applications in the compilation of research data.
Skill in budget preparation and fiscal management.
Ability to provide guidance and assistance to lower level staff, students or volunteers.
Ability to provide leadership and direction to staff in the field.
Ability to effectively establish priorities, schedule work assignments and perform multiple tasks involving science collections.
Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
Ability to provide operational guidance and leadership to technical staff in area of specialty.
Strong organizational skills.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Position requires: a) Growth and preservation of a science collection, both in the physical condition of the collection and the maintenance of associated documentation and records; b) participation in the development and management of annual budgets and preparation of year end reports; c) contract and grant management; d) representation and collaborative interaction with a wide range of internal and external professional constituencies.
Conditions of Employment
Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
Specialty licensure/certification may be required, as specified by the department.
Successful candidate may be subject to a criminal background check prior to starting work.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Work may be performed in an office environment, museum environment or field environment.
Considerable physical effort. Requires handling of objects that can weigh up to 50 lbs (or greater mass requiring mechanical assistance). Standing/walking may occur more than 50% of time.
Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.
Work involves considerable exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
