Project Cataloguer

Historic New England (HNE) is looking to connect individuals who are new to or interested in the museum field with a hands-on, immersive collections position working at the Bowman House in Dresden, Maine. This position works as part of the collection services team on a collections project to complete the process of cataloguing the contents of the Bowman House. Learn how to properly identify and add identification numbers to historic collections at the property while also assisting collections staff with inventorying and rehousing collections. This opportunity is excellent for emerging museum professionals, graduate or college students looking for a 10-week term-limited summer position.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

This hourly position is responsible for identifying objects and either painting, tagging, or sewing the accession numbers on all historic objects located at Bowman House. Supervised by the Collection Manager, the Project Cataloguer cross-references the complete inventory for all objects at the property and confirms basic cataloguing of collections. Project cataloguer ensures that the collection objects are properly numbered using standard museum and archival practices, procedures, and nomenclature and in accordance with HNE’s collection management policy. The Project Cataloguer will participate in weekly check ins with the Collection Manager and associated staff. The Collection Manager and associated staff will visit the property weekly or biweekly to ensure project progress and assist with questions. Specialty training on identification numbering will be provided by HNE’s collection services team, giving you access to the depth of knowledge our staff can provide.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES:

• Currently enrolled, or completion of, a bachelor’s degree in history, art history, public history, or a related field.


• Applicants should have 1-3 years of job-related experience (internships and volunteer experience), preference for museum-related experience.


• Experience handling museum collections is preferred and a general knowledge of standardized museum nomenclature.


• Requires excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently for extended periods of time as well as cooperatively within a small team.


• Requires problem solving skills, strong attention to detail, and basic computer skills.


• The visual demands of the position require analysis and evaluation of museum and archival objects as well as constantly reading documents for analytical purposes.


• This position also requires competency in computer applications, including use of internet, email, Microsoft Excel and Word, Zoom, and Dropbox.


• Must commit to employment for 10 weeks (ideally the end of May to the beginning of August, Monday – Wednesday and/or Friday). 


• Valid driver’s license and a means of transportation required.  


• Commitment to the highest standards of professionalism, excellence, and Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access (IDEA).
  


• Strong belief in, and demonstrated commitment to, Historic New England’s mission and values.

Other Duties

Please note this position description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Historic New England is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.