Job Listing: Collections Manager & Archivist (Wilton House Museum)

COLLECTIONS MANAGER & ARCHIVIST

Position Title: Collections Manager & Archivist

Position Status: Full-time; Exempt

Reports To: Executive Director

Position Overview:

The Collections Manager is responsible for overseeing the care, management, and documentation of the collection for the Wilton House Museum and the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the Commonwealth of Virginia (NSCDA-VA). This role is essential to maintain the preservation, organization, and accessibility of artifacts, artworks, historical objects, and archival materials in accordance with museum best practices and institutional policies.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Collection Management:

• Oversee the daily management of the Museum’s collections, including handling, storage, and preservation.
• Develop and implement procedures for cataloging, accessioning, deaccessioning, and inventory management.
• Maintain up-to-date records for all objects in the collection, including object location tracking, condition reports, provenance, and exhibition history.

2. Preservation and Conservation:

• Monitor appropriate environmental conditions for the preservation of collections and monitor pest control in all spaces associated with collections.
• Maintains cleanliness of interiors and collections on established schedule to ensure the preservation of all historic resources and collections assets.
• Coordinate with conservation specialists for the treatment and restoration of objects.
• Conduct condition assessments and implement preventive conservation measures.
• Develops and implements emergency and disaster plans and procedures. Maintains emergency supplies for the historic house museum.
• Develops and implements the Wilton House Museum Facilities Report for potential lenders.

3. Archival Management

• Maintain, supplement, catalog archival collection
• Digitize physical records.
• Facilitate the use of archives to promote museum programming and events.

4. Documentation and Cataloging:

• Ensure accurate and thorough documentation of all items in the collection using PastPerfect museum collection software.
• Conducts periodic inventory of the collections throughout the historic site and storage to ensure location accuracy.
• Prepare and maintain detailed records, including acquisition files, condition reports, and exhibition histories.
• Assist with the development and maintenance of the museum’s digital catalog and online collection database.

5. Exhibitions and Loans:

• Collaborate with staff to plan and implement exhibitions, including the selection, preparation, and labeling of objects.
• Manage the logistics of incoming and outgoing loans, including condition reports, packing, shipping, and transportation arrangements.
• Ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards for collections management.

6. Research and Reporting:

• Conduct research related to the collection, including provenance, historical significance, and contextual information.
• Prepare reports and documentation related to collections management and preservation.
• Assist in grant writing and fundraising efforts related to the collection.

7. Staff and Volunteer Supervision:

• Supervise and train collections interns and volunteers, ensuring adherence to best practices and institutional policies.

8. Public Engagement:

• Provide information and assistance to museum visitors, researchers, and scholars regarding the collection.
• Participate in public programs, tours, and educational activities related to the collection.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in Museum studies, Art History, History, or a related field.
• Knowledge of museum standards, practices, and ethics related to collections care and management.
• Knowledge of archival practices.
• Familiarity with museum management software and digital cataloging systems.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to the preservation and care of historic resources.
• Support strong relationships with members of the Wilton House Museum Board and The National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the Commonwealth of Virginia (NSCDA-VA) Board of Managers.
• Serve as a representative of the organization and articulate Wilton and NSCDA-VA’s mission and goals for a wide range of audiences.
• Passion for Wilton’s mission and historic preservation is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds.
• Comfortable with handling delicate and potentially fragile items.
• Ability to work in varied environmental conditions, including storage areas.

About Wilton House Museum/NSCDA-VA:

The mission of Wilton House Museum is to increase public understanding of life in Virginia since the 18^th century, the paradox of hardship amidst elegance, and how the past continues to shape life in America today. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and headquarters for the National Society of the Colonial Dames of American in the Commonwealth of Virginia, Wilton was originally built by William Randolph III in 1753 and moved to its present location on the James River by the Virginia Society Dames in 1934. Today, the site includes Wilton House, a visitors’ center and gift shop, and an event space. For more information, please visit, www.wiltonhousemuseum.org.

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary range is $42,000-45,000/year with compensation commensurate with experience. We currently do not offer health insurance but are actively investigating options to offer a health plan to our team soon. In addition to accessing professional development opportunities, we offer paid time off and holiday pay.

Application Process:

To apply, please submit your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Amanda Keller, Executive Director, at akeller@wiltonhm.org. This position will remain open until it is filled.

Wilton House Museum/NSCDA-VA is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals.