Description

TITLE:                      WFA Museums Curator and Program Manager
DEPARTMENT:   Curatorial

REPORTS TO:      Curator

POSITION:             Part time, $25.00 per hour

MUSEUM HISTORY
 

The Wing Fort House, established in 1641, is the oldest house in New England built and occupied by the same family for over three centuries. Purchased by the Wing Family of America, INC. in 1946, the Wing Fort House retains its historic charm without electricity or indoor plumbing. Across the street, the Wing History Museum shares captivating narratives of Wing descendants' migration across America. The museum features rotating exhibits and houses the 10,000-object permanent collection dedicated to Simon Wing (1829-1910), a renowned 19th-century daguerreotypist, inventor, entrepreneur, and radical politician. The collection showcases Simon Wing's campaign speeches, unique inventions, patented studio cameras, and rare family photographs, providing a glimpse into seven generations of artistic and rebellious spirits. https://www.wingfamily.org/

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES
 

The Museums Curator and Program Manager collaborates closely with the Curator, overseeing the preservation of museum artifacts as well as researching and creating exhibits to further enhance the museum visitors’ knowledge of the Wing Family. Duties include aiding in ongoing collection digitization efforts, overseeing collection preservation and storage and providing exhibit support from research to de-installation. This candidate possesses the ability to work independently and will have proficiency in artifact handling and museum best practices.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
 

COLLECTIONS CARE:

     Lead collections management projects and develop strategies for strengthening documentation and preservation of the museum's collections.

     Manage collection storage areas to ensure optimal storage practices are maintained.

     Complete condition reports and offer conservation recommendations for collections.

COLLECTION DOCUMENTATION

     Create and manage object records in collections management database Past Perfect Web Edition.

     Maintain collection and exhibit archives in digital and paper forms.

     Process acquisitions and deaccession records, coordinate shipping and appraisals of the museum's collection in conjunction with the curator.

     Address public inquiries and photo requests related to WFA collections.

  EXHIBITION SUPPORT

     With support/input from the Museum Committee, research, create and install rotating exhibits related to the story of the Wing Family in America

     Assist the Curator with exhibit installation and deinstallation

     Oversee incoming and outgoing loans 

 ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

     Attends annual reunion in Sandwich (every other year)

     Provides administrative support: Files digitally and physically WFA corporate documents as well as tracking relevant statistics (number of visitors, outreach activities, etc)

     Conducts tours of the History Museum

     Conducts tours of the Fort House when needed

     Provides outreach to the community

Assist with the Gift Shop

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS
 

     A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least 2 years of applicable experience are required.

     Exercise sound judgment and adhere to, as well as enforce, policies.

     Experience with collections management databases, Past Perfect Museum Software, preferred.

     Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 30 lbs and climb stairs unassisted.

     Proficiency in basic computer applications (Microsoft Excel/Word/PowerPoint, Google Docs/Sheets), experience with Adobe products is a plus.

     Experience training and supervising interns in collections management projects, preferred.

     Strong attention to detail, excellent project management, and organizational skills.

     Should enjoy working with the public

POSITION DETAILS:
 

     Minimum commitment of 16 hours per week, maximum of 24 hours. Flexible hours.

     $25.00 per hour.

     Reports to: Curator