Collection Specialist, Special Projects (18-month contract)

at  Royal Ontario Museum

Are you passionate about culture, the arts, natural history, and science? Are you keen on how these elements aesthetically come together to tell the many stories of humanity? Join our team at ROM and consider a fulfilling career as a Collection Specialist, Special Projects.

POSITION SUMMARY:

As a Collection Specialist for Special Projects (CSSP) at ROM, you will report directly to the Manager of Collection Care Art and Culture,. In this pivotal role, you are entrusted with our esteemed art and culture collections’ meticulous documentation, organization, and maintenance. Your responsibilities extend to working closely with our collection and database technicians within the Art and Culture Department. This role involves active participation in the management of acquisitions and loans, and you will be integral to the execution of major collection care projects as directed by the Manager of Collection Care Art and Culture. As the CSSP, you will ensure that all projects are executed with the utmost care and precision, adhering to the highest collection management standards, and completed within the designated timelines. Your contribution will be vital in maintaining and enhancing the integrity and accessibility of our collections.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Advanced degree in Museum Studies, Arts, or Sciences, with consideration given to equivalent experience and informal education in place of formal degrees.
• At least five years of experience in collection care and management, demonstrating a deep understanding and practical knowledge of the field.
• Exceptional judgment, initiative, and organizational skills, paired with strong interpersonal and, oral and written communication abilities.
• Proficient knowledge of object handling, storage, and packing standards and practices, ensuring the safety and preservation of collection items.
• Manual dexterity, technical skills, and a highly collaborative, flexible, and adaptable working style. Must possess excellent communication skills.
• Advanced analytical, judgment, and problem-solving skills, enabling effective decision-making in complex situations.
• Solid experience in project management, including a thorough understanding of contemporary collections management systems and techniques. Ability to lead and manage a diverse team using strong project management skills.
• Competency in computer skills, particularly with Microsoft Office and database programs. Familiarity with the Collections Management System, TMS, is preferred.
• Knowledge and experience with various photographic techniques, materials, and equipment, including digital camera proficiency.
• An adaptable and open-minded approach, with a keen eagerness to learn, grow, and contribute to the evolving needs of the museum.

• Manage collection care projects, including acquisitions, loans, re-housing, documentation, and organization of collections, both independently and with innovative approaches.
• Collaborate with curators to catalogue and document essential collections related to assigned projects, ensuring meticulous record-keeping and historical accuracy.
• Develop and implement tailored storage solutions in partnership with collection specialists, catering to the specific needs of diverse collection projects.
• In collaboration with conservators and preparators, conduct condition reporting, handling, packing, transporting, and housing objects as required.
• Work closely with database technicians to photograph collections for records and integrate digital assets into the collections management system, TMS.
• Liaise with registrars to assess provenance, valuation, appraisals, and copyright issues for collection items, ensuring legal and ethical compliance.
• Supervise and mentor interns/co-op students, providing direction and oversight to ensure projects remain on schedule and meet quality standards.
• Offer guidance and advice to collection specialists, fostering a collaborative and efficient working environment.
• Undertake additional responsibilities as required, demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to the evolving needs of the department.