Curatorial Assistant

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Description

Title: Curatorial Assistant

Classification: Full time, Non-Exempt

Department: Anthropology

Reports To: Anthropology Department Head

Wage Band: Coordinator/Assistant Level 1

Pay range: $22.72 to $25.00 per hour*

Mission: The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History inspires a thirst for discovery and a passion for the natural world.

Position Summary: Identify, organize, catalog, and label a variety of archival, archaeological, and/or ethnographic materials; inventory, improve, and document existing collections; provide other assistance for projects undertaken under the auspices of the anthropology department.

Specific Responsibilities

• Using a collection management software (CMS) program, enters data into a computerized database and verifies accuracy of data previously entered.
• Assists in cataloging incoming collections and updating catalog information for pre-existing collections.
• Assists in the organization, appropriate labeling, and documentation of anthropological collections.
• Maintains laboratory and collection spaces according to safety and cleanliness standards.
• Assists in the training and supervision of volunteers and undergraduate interns and verifies the accuracy and quality of their output.
• Assists staff in NAGPRA and CalNAGPRA documentation, including organizing files and documents for use in Tribal consultation.
• Digitizes documentary records associated with anthropological collections.
• Photographs anthropological specimens and tracks digital images following museum standards.
• Contributes to a positive guest experience by greeting and addressing any questions when encountering guests as they navigate through the Museum and Sea Center.
• Supports the Museum’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion for fellow staff, guests and the community.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in anthropology or related study.
• Proficient computer skills, particularly with Microsoft Excel and Word, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Able to work independently and with minimal supervision.
• Experience in archaeology and artifact identification is highly desirable.
  
  

Work Environment

• On-site only (No remote work).
• General office environment with occasional work throughout the museum’s facilities (exhibit halls, conference rooms and galleries).
• Frequent work on computers (repetitive movement – typing).
• Standard scientific research laboratory environment with occasional use of or exposure to the following: dust, archaeological specimens, cleaning products, solvents, and adhesives.
• Frequent sitting, standing, walking, climbing stairs and bending with occasional lifting of light to moderate loads (10-25 lbs.).
  
  

The incumbent must be able to perform each requirement of the position as outlined in the job description. Essential Requirements are representative and are essential for satisfactory job performance. The Work Environment characteristics are representative of those that may be encountered while on the job. The Museum will make reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

• The pay range above represents the budgeted range for a new hire, encompassing the minimum and maximum rates. Placement within this range will depend on factors such as specific skills, qualifications, relevant years of experience, and alignment with the salaries of current employees in similar roles. In most cases, newly hired employees are placed below the midpoint of the range.