Director of Collections, Russian History Museum, (Jordanville, NY)

Posted December 2, 2022

Description

The Russian History Museum (RHM) is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual with a proven track record in managing collections of historic materials to serve as its Director of Collections. The Director of Collections will be responsible for the stewardship of RHM’s collection and related initiatives, including accessioning and cataloging materials in the museum, archival, and library collections; database and records management; preservation and conservation; proper storage and display of materials; administering loans; maintaining proper documentation; digitization and digital asset management; and creating and implementing relevant policies and procedures. The Director of Collections will play a key role in sharing RHM’s outstanding collections with a growing audience. The position will report to the Executive Director and will work closely with RHM staff and the Collections Committee, developing short- and long-term strategy and executing priorities as they pertain to stewardship of the collections.

The Russian History Museum is a dynamic organization with an extraordinary collection of artifacts, archival documents, and published works. The museum promotes the understanding and appreciation of the rich culture and history of Russia and the Russian emigre experience. Located on the grounds of Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY, RHM presents engaging exhibitions and programming to a growing audience. Today, the collection holds approximately 3,000 museum artifacts, 450 linear feet of archival material, and a library of over 48,000 cataloged volumes. In recent years RHM has attracted national and international attention through its popular online educational programs and participation in exhibitions in the U.S., Germany, Russia, and the U.K.

Responsibilities

Develop, update, and implement plans, policies, and procedures relating to collections management and development in accordance with best practices and standards
Identify priorities for collections management and participate in annual budgeting process and strategic planning
Plan and implement cataloging and inventory projects for existing materials and new acquisitions, including the cataloging and photography of museum artifacts; original and copy cataloging of published works; and the processing and creation of finding aids for archival collections
Administer and maintain databases used to catalog and publish the collections, including the museum’s collections management system, the OPAC (Koha Library Software), and archival management system
Conduct research on materials in collections to enhance catalog records
Manage acquisitions, accession and deaccession processes
Organize and maintain all collections and donor records
Manage incoming and outgoing loans
Ensure proper storage and re-housing of collections for their long-term preservation, establishing plants for future storage needs
Evaluate conservation needs, identifying materials for professional conservation and coordinating with outside conservators
Identify collections management projects requiring specialized skills, recruit contract employees, and oversee special projects to their timely completion
Recruit interns and volunteers, train and supervise them and any RHM staff assigned to work on collections management and cataloging projects
Collaborate with RHM staff in creating exhibitions and public programming, sharing research and new discoveries with other members of the RHM team
Work with the Collections Committee and the Executive Director to identify, recommend, and secure new acquisitions to develop RHM’s collections through purchase or cultivation of donors
Participate in fundraising initiatives to support collections needs (e.g. grant-writing, campaigns, and donor cultivation)
Oversee digitization initiatives, metadata creation, and implementation of digital asset management
Manage interlibrary loans, research requests, rights and reproductions, and research visits
Represent RHM at professional conferences and other events
Liaise with researchers and museum, library, and archival professionals to promote the use of RHM’s collections
Write content for RHM website and other publication platforms, both internal and external, to promote and raise awareness of the museum’s collections
Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director

Qualifications

Master’s degree in museum studies, library science, archival studies, history, or related field
Minimum of three years of collections care experience in a cultural institution
Ability to plan, direct, and report on collections activities and projects
Proven track record of successful project management and supervisory experience
Thorough understanding of standards and best practices in managing collections of museum, library, and archival materials, including object care, cataloging, record-keeping, technology, and conservation
Organized, competent, detail-oriented, proactive professional with the ability to work well under deadlines, problem solve independently, and work within a team
Excellent abilities in writing, speaking, communication; strong interpersonal skills
Proficiency with computer technology and software, including Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and image editing software
Must consent to and pass a background check as condition of employment
Current driver’s license
Reading knowledge of Russian language strongly preferred
Grant writing, fundraising experience in support of collections projects preferred
Experience managing digital collections/humanities projects preferred

Applicants who do not meet the qualifications above are encouraged to put in writing precisely how their background and experience have prepared them for the responsibilities of this position and by providing appropriate references.

Other Details

Long periods of sitting and daily use of a computer. Occasional travel to meet with prospective donors and attend conferences and events. Working occasional nights and weekends to assist with promotional events. Ability to lift, carry, and/or move up to forty pounds unassisted. Visual acuity to see and read paper documents; hear conversation and respond to verbal instructions. Manual dexterity for handling fragile documents and objects.

Office and museum, library, and archives located in non-ADA compliant buildings. Hours are flexible and some work may be done remotely.

Full-time – 40 hours per week

SALARY

$58,000-$62,000

BENEFITS

Medical coverage, employer-matched retirement savings after one year, paid time off, flexible schedule, possibility to work some hours remotely. Some relocation assistance, if needed, will be provided to a successful candidate who currently does not reside in the area.

How to Apply

Send cover letter and resume to Michael Perekrestov, Executive Director: [email protected]. No phone calls please. “Director of Collections” should be placed in the subject line. Consideration of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.