Collection Care Manager | Plano, TX

Collection Care Manager

The Collections Manager is responsible for the thoughtful care and stewardship of Heritage Farmstead Museum’s (HFM) collection in a manner consistent with HFM's Collections Policy and the ethical guidelines and standards of the American Alliance of Museums.

The Heritage Farmstead Museum’s mission is to preserve a historic Texas farmstead where people can experience and learn from our agrarian roots.

Responsibilities and Duties

Collection Management and Stewardship

• Manage HFM’s collection in a manner that maintains clear, consistent documentation of all items in the collection.

• Use both digital and physical records to track, store, and locate all collections items at any time, updating these records to improve consistency and historical accuracy as needed.

• Digitization of collection records through PastPerfect, improving records, condition reports, updating photos and verifying historical data.

• Proactively care for collection items that are on display throughout the complex through regular inspections of display spaces and through data loggers that monitor temperature, humidity, and light exposure.

• Evaluate the storage of onsite and offsite collection items not currently on display and ensure that storage solutions adhere to industry best practices.

• Propose collection items for acquisition, accession to, and deaccession. Work with the President and Board of Trustees Collection Advisory Committee to decide whether acquisition, accession, or deaccession is desirable, and complete paperwork necessary to institute such changes.

• Work closely with Programs and Education department, participate in the planning and implementation of all onsite and offsite exhibitions with a focus on balancing access to collection items with appropriate care and stewardship.

• Oversee and manage collection care interns and volunteers.

Skills and Qualifications

• Knowledge and understanding of agricultural history, lifestyles, and culture in North Texas in the early 1900s.

• Conduct research, analyze data, and present findings in a clear and concise manner.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills with ability to communicate with external and internal guests professionally and effectively via phone, email and written correspondence.

• Ability to work collaboratively and build strong relationships with individuals and organizations while serving as a public representative of HFM.

• Have a positive "can-do" attitude and the capability to implement fresh approaches or new processes / methods to solve problems.

• Ability to complete projects and reports in an accurate and timely manner.

• Excellent organizational skills and ability to follow through on commitments; self- motivated, taking initiative and comfortable working independently.

• Enjoy sharing knowledge and interacting with a variety of guests, including youth, families, and adults.

• Show flexibility and creativity in support of all Heritage Farmstead Museum activities, programs, and events.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies, Archival Studies, Library Sciences or other relevant field preferred; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Must have at least 3-5 years' relevant experience working in a collections or archival setting; experience presenting public programs preferred.

• Must be highly proficient in Microsoft Office applications and PastPerfect

Physical Requirements

• Ability to maintain visual attention for considerable lengths of time.

• Ability to sit and stand for considerable lengths of time.

• Must be able to ascend and descend stairs on a frequent basis.

• Ability to operate computers and general office equipment.

• Regularly lift and/or move up to 40 lbs. and lift and/or move heavier loads as needed.

Working Environment and Conditions

• This position involves working in both indoor and outdoor environments, during all seasons and types of weather conditions.

• This position requires working non-traditional hours at times, including evenings and weekends.

Job Type: Part-time; Potential for Full-Time;

Pay: $20.00 per hour (up to 25 per week)

Benefits: Flexible schedule

Schedule: Monday to Friday, some weekends and evenings due to programs or outreach

Work Location: In person, Heritage Farmstead Museum, 1900 West 15th Street, Plano, Texas 75075