Collections Technician

at  City of St Catharines

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A minimum of a post-secondary degree or diploma in archival practices, museums studies or collections management, or equivalent work experience.
• One to three years’ experience working in a museum collections management or archival capacity.
• Neat, legible handwriting.
• Understanding of Library classifications systems and processes.
• Familiarization with collections management databases and other applicable software.
• Experience in archival and records management.
• Experience working with volunteers.
• Knowledge of the Niagara area and its history, specifically the City of St. Catharines and the Welland Canal, is an asset.

SKILLS:

• Attention to detail and accurate in recording information
• Good organizational & research skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively and clearly both orally and in writing, with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Self-motivated, as well as the ability to work in a group.
• Demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision, coordinate / plan work and function as part of a team.
• Exceptional customer service skills with a strong sense of public service and cooperation, and well-developed abilities to deal with the public and citizens’ groups.
• Basic computer skills, experience with Microsoft Office Suite an asset.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Valid - Standard First Aid / CPR C Certification as recognized through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).
• Valid, unrestricted Class “G” driver’s licence held in good standing.
• Working knowledge and experience with the Occupational Health and Safety Act in particular as it relates to maintenance and construction activities (e.g. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), fall arrest). A demonstrated commitment to enhancing a safety culture.
• Able to work shift work as required of this seven day a week operation. Must be available for overtime as needed.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the job as described in the physical demands analysis (PDA).
• Proven completion of Ministry of Labour Worker Health and Safety Awareness training.
• A demonstrated commitment to enhancing a safety culture.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

To process acquisitions, catalogue and describe artifacts and archival collections, maintain documentation for acquisitions, carry out research in support of the Museum’s collection and programming, and undertake basic preventative maintenance of the artifact collection. To respond to research requests and assist staff and public in the retrieval and filing of library and archival material for research and reference purposes. Support volunteers working in the Museum Collections.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING:

• Organize, arrange, accession and catalogue artifacts and archival materials, and prepare catalogue classifications and finding aids.
• Prepare and maintain comprehensive and accurate collection records for gifts, loans, purchases, and field work.
• Store artifacts and archival items and manage locations by means of up-to-date inventory procedures and record keeping.
• Carry out research to support of artifact cataloguing and to support the Museum’s programmes.
• Process acquisitions and artifact movements ensuring the completion of proper contractual documentation.
• Handle, clean and undertake the basic conservation of artifacts and archival items according to accepted museum practices and procedures.
• Prepare Condition / Treatment Reports and undertake basic preventative conservation of artifacts.
• Retrieve and file Library and Archival material.
• Provide the visiting public and Museum staff with reference services.
• Assist researchers with public inquiries by telephone, e-mail, correspondence, or on-site visits.
• Monitor and maintain a safe work area, and report misuse of Library & Archival material.
• Undertake research both internal and external as it supports exhibits, cataloguing and museum publications.
• Process books and reference materials for access or storage.
• Monitor and maintain a safe work area.
• Assist Collections Coordinator in training and overseeing the operations of the Research Centre by volunteers.
• Provide excellent customer service; respond to needs of all customers and staff as required.
• Perform other similar and related duties as required.
  These responsibilities outline the principal functions of the position and serve as a guiding vision for the role’s impact and contribution.