Curator of Preservation Collections

Curator of Preservation Collections

Full-Time, Position open until filled.

Apply at https://www.mountvernon.org/about/employment/open-positions-at-mount-vernon/

The Curator of Preservation Collections is charged with overseeing the archaeological and architectural collections and their associated data and providing direction regarding the accession or deaccession, housing, research, collections management, and documentation activities as well as analyses and reporting using these specific collections.

Essential Duties: 

• In consultation with the Director of Preservation, manages, facilitates and develops procedures for access to the historic preservation collections (archaeology and architecture) and prioritizes cataloging of collections material pursuant to departmental goals
• Oversees the processing of all archaeological materials from active and legacy excavations, and all architectural materials from active and legacy restoration and maintenance projects
• Orchestrates the storage, security, and movement of preservation collections; Contributes to space planning efforts and is responsible for the planning for and ordering of supplies
• Collaborates with the Research Archaeologist and Architectural Historian to develop an understanding of the collections objects, obtain background information for objects, contribute to reporting, and supply objects for display and exhibition
• Manages the preservation conservator and the digital preservation specialist team members 
• Collaborates with archaeological and architectural teams in identifying conservation and documentation needs for archaeological and architectural materials
• Develops, oversees, and undertakes all aspects of collections documentation
• Manages the historic preservation laboratories, assists in development of annual work plan and budget, and manages archaeological and architectural laboratory supply budgets
• Supervises and conducts research using the historic preservation collections. Collaborates with the Director of Preservation, Research Archaeologist and Architectural Historian to advance research on structures, architectural history, landscapes, and archaeological excavations as needed
• Prepares and assists in preparation of archaeological and architectural reports, articles, and presentations
• Instructs and supports Association staff with digital documentation and promotes digital humanities
• Develops internships in collaboration with the Director of Preservation for students and young professionals to document, catalogue and research Mount Vernon’s historic preservation collections and presents the results utilizing technological and traditional formats
• Directs the work of volunteers in artifact processing
• Represents Mount Vernon at conferences and symposia
• Undertakes other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Minimum of five years’ experience working in archaeological, preservation, or conservation laboratory processing and analyzing historic artifacts; minimum of two years at management or supervisory level
• M.A. in Historical Archaeology, Anthropology, Conservation, Historic Preservation, Architectural History, History or closely related field required. Ph.D. preferred
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate and communicate clearly with team members
• Sound knowledge and demonstrated experience with collections care and management procedures
• Demonstrated knowledge of archaeological and preservation methods and theory, including public interpretation
• Strong computer and records management skills including word processing and database management; knowledge of GIS and web development. Experience using cataloguing databases including Re:discovery, Proficio, TMS, and DAACS preferred
• Thorough knowledge of protocols and standards in historical archaeology and the material culture of the Atlantic World
• Ability to design and conduct research projects as demonstrated through publications and professional papers.  Research interests associated with work in colonial and early American historical archaeology, architecture and material culture
• Demonstrated familiarity with the principles and techniques of materials conservation
• Flexibility, reliability, and the ability to work beyond a normal work day

Mount Vernon is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to building and retaining a team that represents a variety of skills, experiences and perspectives.  All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, performance, and qualifications without regard to race, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, gender/sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, veteran and military status, family or parental status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Mount Vernon will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.