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 basic management and care for a science collection. Follows accepted collection management policies and procedures, and directly manages the acquisition, documentation, and preservation of museum collections and materials. Manages collection-based databases, supports research, and may supervise or provide guidance to others.
Duties and Responsibilities
Manages most 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 care and conservation; maintains the physical condition of the collection and corresponding records.
Manages databases of specimen records and transactions following established guidelines. Promotes efficiency of data entry procedures to maximize data integrity.
Establishes work priorities in consultation with the Curator; recruits, hires, trains and supervises students and volunteers.
Interacts with the national and international scientific community, including managing loans, responding to inquiries, and maximizing utilization of the collections to support scholarly research. Maintains records on collection use and growth.
Participates in departmental budget management. Purchases materials and supplies and provides information for fiscal reports
Interacts with internal contacts such as faculty, curators, museum staff, and various university administrators regarding the collections. Represents the museum through public education, museum programs, and other museum services.
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
Bachelor's degree; at least 2 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.
Knowledge in field of specialty in science.
Knowledge of field and/or laboratory procedures and techniques for research and collection purposes.
Skill in the use of computer spreadsheet and/or database applications in the compilation of research data.
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) Preservation of a science collection, both in the physical condition of the collection and the maintenance of associated documentation and records; b) management of students and/or volunteers; c) providing leadership and direction in areas of expertise; d) representation and collaborative interaction with a wide range of internal and external 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.
