Collections Assistant

Job Summary

The UMFA is the state and University fine arts museum, serving as a vital cultural resource for Utah and the broader region. Established in 1914, the Museum stewards an encyclopedic collection of more than 22,000 objects representing 5,000 years of human creativity across the globe. Through its exhibitions, programs, and collections, the UMFA advances understanding of the visual arts and their role in shaping and reflecting the human experience.

Responsibilities

• Collections Access
• Coordinates appointments, works with Museum staff and external patrons, prepares object lists from the database, retrieves and assesses objects for suitability, prepares and oversees appointments, safely moves artwork, and maintains associated records and data.
• Conservation Support
• Under the guidance of the Conservator, assists with conservation examinations, prepares conservation-grade adhesives and materials, executes Integrated Pest Management (IPM) functions, supports preventive care measures and storage improvements.
• Registration Support
• Collaborates with the Registration Team for regular inventory of the permanent collection, assists with managing physical space in collections storage, creates safe and appropriate housing for objects, supports reorganization projects in the collection storage areas, supports recordkeeping through filing, data entry, document preparation, internal research, scanning, and digital file organization.
• Object Handling
• Handles and transports objects safely within the Museum; assists with installation, deinstallation, packing, and unpacking of artworks.
• Procedures
• Contributes to and helps revise collections-related internal procedures, including emergency response plans and collections protocols.
• Other Tasks
• Participates in department meetings and contributes to additional projects and tasks related to collections care, documentation, and access as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Preferences

• The Ideal Candidate Will Possess Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
• The ability to follow instructions, plan ahead, and manage multiple tasks
• A self-motivated and reliable work ethic, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Familiarity with collections databases (e.g., Argus, TMS) or information management systems
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, with a willingness to learn new software as needed (e.g., Microsoft Teams)
• Good manual dexterity and spatial awareness
• The ability to bend, kneel, push, pull, walk, stand for extended periods, frequent ladder use, and lift up to 50 lbs
• Good eyesight or eyesight that can be corrected with glasses or contacts
• An interest in the arts and museums, with experience in registration, collections care, or conservation considered a plus
• A bachelor's degree in a related field
• Previous experience as a volunteer, intern, or employee in a museum setting
• Associate degree in Art History, Museum Studies, or a related field; or two years of experience in a museum or clerical position
• Other areas of study or professional experience will be considered-please describe relevant qualifications in your cover letter
• Ability to perform the essential functions and responsibilities of the position as outlined above

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN45764B
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Work Schedule Summary: Flexible within: M-F 8-5
Department: 00073 - Utah Museum of Fine Arts
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: 19.00
Close Date: 10/30/2026
Open Until Filled
To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/206179