Collection Manager II - Herpetology

About the role

The Collection Manager II—Herpetology is responsible for the physical care, maintenance, and preservation of the amphibian and reptile collection. A portion of this work will be dedicated to innovating and/or implementing modern storage techniques within the collection and increasing the visibility and utility of the collections, in part by making the collections data available in an electronic format.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a complete database of existing collections including specimens/objects, archives and library materials.
• Monitor storage conditions of collections, including but not limited to temperature and humidity levels, pest infestation, and cleanliness.
• Handle receipt and cataloging of new specimens.
• Be familiar and comply with the museum collections management policy.
• Collaborate with curators and conservators to propose, develop and apply for grants related to collection care and/or data management.
• Develop, implement, and train others in best management practices for direct care of collections.
• Manage budget associated with direct care of collection.
• Data Management:
  • Clearly and completely record all specimens.
  • Maintain a complete inventory of the collection.
  • Increase the visibility and utility of the collections, in part by making the collections (including archival material) available in an electronic format.
• User Services:
  • Requests for loans and data must be handled in a timely manner with appropriate documentation.
• Outreach:
  • Includes roles within the larger museum community, including development, marketing, and media requests and internal public lectures.
• Service & Professional Development:
  • Both internal (e.g., section administration, support for activities in other departments – including exhibits, committee work) and external service (e.g., professional society membership and officer positions, consultations, peer review) is expected to be at a high level.
  • Professional development activities must be undertaken to further knowledge of collections management.
• Other duties as assigned.

  Requirements

  • An advanced degree in a natural science field.
  • 3+ years of work experience involving day-to-day management of collections including physical care, maintenance and preservation, and data and records management required.
  • A strong background in herpetology is required, including familiarity with other herpetology collections.
  • A demonstrated knowledge of taxonomic principles and collection management, strong organizational skills, and supervisory skills for overseeing collection personnel, including technicians, volunteers, students, and interns.
  • A proven track record of improvement, development, promotion and maximized use of collections as well as database and genetic resource management skills are essential.
  • Evidence of effective science communication and project management.
  • Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.

  Skills

  • Strong knowledge of both scientific principles and the techniques, procedures, best practices, and professional standards for specimen preparation, specimen handling, and scientific data management preferred.
  • An understanding of relevant regulatory laws and compliance procedures related to collections is required.
  • Ability to work independently and supervise volunteers and/or student workers on large, iterative tasks over lengthy periods of time.
  • Proficient in word processing, spreadsheets, and data entry.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and must establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, and the public.
  • Ability to identify and prioritize needs within the collection, propose modern solutions to meet those needs, and collaborate with curators and conservators to develop and apply for grants related to collections care and data management.
  • Ability to handle requests for loans and data in a timely manner with appropriate documentation.

  Physical Requirements

  • Ability to use hands to handle specimens and operate tools or controls and use arms to reach.
  • Drawers to be manipulated (if present in the section) will be located up to 96 inches high (employee may use step stool or ladder).
  • Occasionally required to climb (stairs, ladders, stepstools) or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Job duties are performed in a wide variety of settings including office, collection area, and public galleries.
  • The noise level in the work environment will vary accordingly.
  • Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Must be able to work with ethanol, formalin, and other chemicals and regular exposure to dust, chemicals, fumes and sharp instruments.

  Qualifications

  • Education: An advanced degree in a natural science field.
  • Experience: 3+ years of work experience involving day-to-day management of collections including physical care, maintenance and preservation, and data and records management required.
  • Specialized Knowledge: A strong background in herpetology is required, including familiarity with other herpetology collections. A demonstrated knowledge of taxonomic principles and collection management, strong organizational skills, and supervisory skills for overseeing collection personnel, including technicians, volunteers, students, and interns. A proven track record of improvement, development, promotion and maximized use of collections as well as database and genetic resource management skills are essential. Evidence of effective science communication and project management.
  • Commitment to Diversity: Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.

  Benefits

  This Full-Time position is eligible for Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh’s many Benefits. Expected starting pay range, based on experience, $45,000.00 - 53,000.00

  Pay

  Please submit a cover letter with application materials. Review of applications will begin October 25, 2022 and continue until the position is filled.

  Contact Information

  For more information, please visit Carnegie Museum of Natural History.