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TITLE: Collections Manager DEPT: Collections & Exhibitions REPORTS TO: Curator
POSITION: Part-Time, $25.00 per hour.
 

MUSEUM HISTORY
The Wing Fort House, established in 1641 is the oldest house in New England built and occupied by the same family for over three centuries. Purchased by the Wing Family of America, INC. in 1946 from the last occupant, Cora Wing, the Wing Fort House retains its historic charm without electricity or indoor plumbing. Across the street, the Wing History Museum shares captivating narratives of Wing descendants' migration across America. The museum features rotating exhibits and houses the 10,000 object permanent collection dedicated to Simon Wing (1829-1910), a renowned 19th-century daguerreotypist, inventor, entrepreneur, and radical politician. The collection showcases Simon Wing's campaign speeches, unique inventions, patented studio cameras, and rare family photographs, providing a glimpse into seven generations of artistic and rebellious spirits. https://www.wingfamily.org/

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES
The Collections Manager collaborates closely with the Curator, overseeing the preservation of museum artifacts and advancing the Wing Family of America's mission. Their duties involve aiding in ongoing collection digitization efforts, overseeing collection storage and providing installation and de-installation exhibit support. An ideal candidate for this position possesses the ability to work independently and would have proficiency in artifact handling and museum best practices.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
COLLECTIONS CARE:

• Lead collections management projects and develop strategies for strengthening documentation and preservation of the museum's collections.

• Manage collection storage areas to ensure optimal storage practices are maintained.

• Complete condition reports and offer conservation recommendations for collections

 

COLLECTION DOCUMENTATION

• Create and manage object records in collections management database Past Perfect Web Edition.

• Maintain collection and exhibit archives in digital and paper forms.

• Process acquisitions and deaccession records, coordinate shipping and appraisals of the museum's collection in conjunction with the curator.

• Assist with ongoing inventory, cataloging, and digitization of approximately 1,300 objects in the Wing Fort House (17th-21st century artifacts).

• Aid in the inventory, re-housing, and digitization of the Simon Wing photographic collection in the Wing History Museum (19th-21st century artifacts).

• Address public inquiries and photo requests related to the collection.

 

EXHIBITION SUPPORT

• Oversee incoming and outgoing loans including shipping, maintaining insurance records, writing condition reports, data entry and photographic documentation.

• Assist the Curator and/or Assistant Curator with exhibit installation and deinstallation.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least 2 years of applicable experience are required.

• Willingness to exercise sound judgment and adhere to, as well as enforce, policies.

• Experience with collections management databases, Past Perfect Museum Software, preferred.

• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 30 lbs and climb stairs unassisted.

• Proficiency in basic computer applications (Microsoft Excel/Word/PowerPoint, Google Docs/Sheets), experience with Adobe products is a plus.

• Experience training and supervising interns in collections management projects, preferred.

• Strong attention to detail, excellent project management, and organizational skills.

POSITION DETAILS:

• Minimum commitment of 16 hours per week, maximum of 24 hours. Flexible hours.

• $25.00 per hour.

• Reports to: Curator

 

HOW TO APPLY:
Submit a cover letter and resume including the contact information of three professional/academic references to:

Curator Christina Shipps: curator@wingfamily.org
Assistant Curator Kelsey Cronin: asstcurator@wingfamily.org

INTERVIEW:
Interviews are required for finalists only. If selected as a finalist, we will contact you via the email provided. Applicants must ensure accurate contact information. You will be asked to indicate availability for an in-person interview, and a confirmation email with the interview date and additional information will be sent.