Artefact Cataloguing Officer
General Information
Job Title: Artefact Cataloguing Officer
Duration: 16 weeks (tentative)
Start/End Dates: May 13, 2012 to September 1, 2012
Language(s): English (bilingualism (French and English) would be an asset)
Project & Job Objectives
The project is to continue upgrading the cataloguing records and location codes of thousands of artefacts in our collection (estimated at 45,000 items) that have been undergoing a facility upgrade. Cataloguing records are being reviewed and photographed before being added to a computer database. Selected artefacts will be used in Society publications and the student will have the opportunity to prepare articles (print and online) and exhibit labels. The Museum will benefit by having its cataloguing system updated and the student will benefit by gaining experience supervising volunteers, cataloguing, performing research and working in a history related field, the possibly of having their written work professionally published as well as the opportunity to develop skills that they can use in future career endeavours.
Measurable Outcomes
Measurable outcomes of the project would include 500 (app 31 per week) completed artefact files updated in both electronic and paper formats. This includes adding to our spreadsheet inventory, updating location codes, ensure proper storage, research, photographing the artefacts and labelling the photographs. Sixteen artefacts will be researched and histories written in a format that can be published. These goals will be met by providing training and support from the Collections Committee and with the assistance of volunteers. The outcomes will be measured by keeping a record of goals accomplished and providing regular reports to the Board and Collections Committee.
Description of Tasks
To catalogue objects in the museum collection, to examine artefacts to be accessioned, precisely measure objects and identify parts, accessories and other material; locate and note signatures, inscriptions and markings. In consultation with the Collections Committee, research museum records and bibliographic sources to establish accurate acquisition information, artist/maker and biography, object date and titles, ex-collections/provenance, published references, exhibition history and related works. Correspond with artist/makers, donors and experts to verify information about collection objects and take care of collections related enquiries. Create object files (paper and electronic), articles, reports and maintain existing files and records. Recruit and oversee volunteers with care of artefacts and storage areas and on exhibit, permanent object relocation, inventory and other collections related duties. Create and proof-read collection label copy for exhibitions, publications, website, education, development and other purposes, as needed.
Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.
The Fredericton Heritage Museum is open 7 days a week during the summer and students are expected to be available to work days, week ends and evenings.
Employability Skills to be gained (Marketable Skills)
Skill development will include written communication skills (reports, articles, blog posts), oral communication skills (oral reports to the Collections Committee) information management skills, social networking skills (articles), problem solving, work under pressure and prioritising skills (cataloguing), project management and research skills (cataloguing and inventory projects), supervisory skills (recruit, manage and motivate volunteers), teamwork skills (working with museum staff, volunteers and Collections Committees), customer service skills (by looking after collections related enquiries), social and networking skills (working with researchers, the Collections Committee and other professionals in museums and archives), increased knowledge of New Brunswick artefacts (research), conservation skills (cataloguing), organizational skills (inventory and cataloguing) and computer skills (Windows, MS Office, Outlook, Filemaker Pro).
Candidate Profile
Minimum second year student (preferably in History or Anthropology) with excellent computer skills (MS Office and database), research and writing skills, a demonstrated attention to accuracy and detail, able to maintain organized and effective files and documentation, both in paper and electronically, ability to respond to a variety of visitors courteously and tactfully, must be a self-starter and able to work with minimal supervision and have an appreciation for antiquities. Supervisory skills would be considered an asset. Must be eligible for the Young Canada Works Program.
Application Process
Apply by May 1, 2012 in person to the Executive Director at 571 Queen Street or by mail if you are not in Fredericton (PO Box 1312, Stn A, Fredericton, NB E3B 5C8).
Please ensure that you qualify for the Young Canada Works program before you apply for this position. Young Canada Works grants require that you apply for the position on-line.
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