Collections Manager of Physical Anthropology

Research & Collections Division

Summary: The Cleveland Museum of Natural History invites applications for the position of Collections Manager of Physical Anthropology. The Department of Physical Anthropology houses specimens of humans, primates, fossils, and casts. Extensive records associated with this collection mark it as one of the world's most important collection of human specimens. The collections manager will oversee the maintenance and development of all collections within the Department of Physical Anthropology. The collections manager will work in collaboration with the curatorial staff to advance mutual interests pertaining to the collection and the research requirements for that collection. The collections manager will work in collaboration with other collections management staff to develop collaborative efforts to secure and advance the institutional collections through methodological development and external funding. The collections manager will oversee the fiscal year operations budget for the collection area by working with the Head of Collections through the annual budgeting process. The collections manager will oversee collections assistant staff, supervise volunteers, manage access to the laboratory and specimens by external users. The successful candidate will work to modernize management of these collections, digitized specimens and records, rehouse specimens, and develop a long-term strategy. The successful candidate will offer context expertise for Museum programs, marketing, and exhibit development.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities (Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation).

Responsible for the management and proper curation of existing research and archival specimens retained within the physical anthropology collection.

Responsible for working closely with curatorial team to ensure research access, new accessions, and prioritizing collection advancement that enhances research capabilities.

Responsible for the management of the systematic arrangement and proper storage of specimens.

Responsible for tracking the collection growth and activity.

Responsible for the identification of new material and producing labels.

Responsible for computer database development of new and existing material and entering the data into the database. Responsible for the management of loan program and filing loan paperwork with the Registrar.

Responsible for collections monitoring to ensure safety and security of objects. For ordering supplies and equipment in support of collection operations. To oversee collections assistant staff members and volunteer activities as they pertain to collection activities.

Responsible for offering collection services to museum members, the general public, and businesses based on current collection and division policies. Seeks additional training or professional development opportunities. Performs other duties as assigned by the Head of Collections or management, as required. Performs all duties according to established museum operating, safety, and environmental and quality policies.

Adheres to the CMNH Manual of Research and Collections Policies. Oversees the fiscal year operations budget for the collection area by working with the Head of Collections through the annual budgeting process.

Responsible for coordination and management of standard lab processes such as protocol regarding lab access, supplies, space allocation, resource scheduling and student training.

Responsible for the acquisition of new material and treatment of that material through curator research, collections acquisitions, and general sampling efforts. Maintains the student training sessions for summer interns as well as undergraduate and graduate students participating in curator research projects.

Responsible for offering content expertise for Museum of programs, marketing, and exhibit development. Coordinate with Partnerships & Programs staff to provide access and educational opportunities that aim to utilize the laboratory and collections during normal and summer programming.

Responsible for seeking external funding opportunities in support of collections development or pursuing strategic goals for collections improvement as outlined by Head of Collections and collections management staff.

Education/Experience: Master's degree (M.S.) or higher degree in relevant field to the collection area of appointment; with 2-5 years of experience and /or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

Knowledge of collections management methods and current best practices.

The ability to plan, direct, and report on collections activities.

Ability to research scientific information, ideas and methods.

Excellent organizational and attention to detail skills.

The ability to deal effectively with public and private agencies and individuals in matters relating to collections objects at the Museum.

Strong computer operating system and database management experience.

Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite products to include Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

Ability to communicate effectively both written and orally.

Ability to work successfully with Museum members, employees and the general public. Strong problem solving and listening skills.

Ability to manage staff assistants and volunteers.

Ability to function in a fast paced environment with time constraints and within established deadlines.

Knowledge of field and laboratory research activities and collections management practices including publications on original research in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Ability to speak effectively with groups or donors, communicating the museum's mission as well as why collections are necessary. Demonstrated ability to serve Museum visitors in a friendly and professional manner. Ability to communicate a passion for science to diverse audiences.

Ability to work with an interdisciplinary, professional team. Ability to function and act independently.

Physical Working Conditions: Indoor/Outdoor, all-weather conditions

Position may require sitting, walking, standing, reaching, kneeling, stooping and crouching. Some physical effort may occasionally be required. Must be able to lift 30 lbs and run or respond to emergency situations.