Curator

Curator of Archaeology

Recruitment #020415-MEAA01-200600

Summary Statement

This class is responsible for the curation, exhibit and conservation of the Delaware's collections of irreplaceable cultural resources entrusted to the Delaware State Museums and Historic Sites.

Preferred Qualification

Applicants who do not possess the preferred qualification will still be eligible to compete for this position if job requirements are met.

1.  Knowledge of archaeological project management which includes planning, developing, implementing, managing and evaluating archaeological projects to ensure objectives are met.

2.  Knowledge of prehistoric, historic or maritime material culture from the Mid-Atlantic region.

3.  Knowledge of handling and preservation of human remains in a cultural or historical setting in accordance with federal and state laws, rules and regulations.

Essential Functions

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.
  • Administers the curation of historical objects and archaeological artifact. This includes coordinating the acquisition and curation of objects donated or purchased. Curation includes prescribing conditions under which objects/artifacts are recovered, catalogued, stored, exhibited and transported, and may involve negotiating the loan of those objects; evaluating and prioritizing collection restoration/conservation needs and selecting and managing contractual services.
     
  • Coordinates multiple projects with other curators, professional organizations, appointed/elected state officials, etc. in the curation of historical objects and archaeological artifacts.
     
  • Develop, prioritize, and propose budgets for curatorial and conversation projects. Writes grant applications for funding studies, conservation, exhibits and/or documentation of Delaware's legacies and manages grant funded projects including supervising and monitoring professional consultants/contractors/seasonal staff.
     
  • Conducts cultural, historical and scientific research, analyzes objects/artifacts and compiles documentary summaries providing historical contexts for the collections and development of tours.
     
  • Conducts outreach activities such as preparing and conducting lectures and presentations, representing Delaware State Museums on professional committees and preparing papers for publication.
     
  • Maintains technological advances in collections management, conservation techniques of historical objects and archaeological artifacts, and curatorial activities.
     
  • Provides leadership, cultural and technical expertise to curatorial staff, historical organizations, the education community, research interns, volunteers, professional colleagues and diverse public/special interest groups.

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Curator
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

  1. Possession of a Bachelors degree or higher in Anthropology, Archaeology, Art History, Design History, Architecture, Decorative Arts, American/World History, or Museum Studies or related field.
  2. Six months experience in museum practices such as collection management, research, exhibit design, management and handling of collections, preservation or maintenance of historic buildings, conducting museum educational programs or tours.
  3. Six months experience in cultural or historical research which includes analyzing objects/artifacts and compiling documentary summaries which provide historical contexts for exhibits, programs, tours, historical sites, and artifacts.
  4. Knowledge of project management which includes planning, developing, implementing, managing and evaluating projects to ensure objectives are met.
  5. Knowledge of interpreting laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.
  6. Knowledge of grant writing. 

 

Benefits

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at http://ben.omb.delaware.gov/

Selection Process

The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position.  It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties.  For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content.   Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email.  Please keep your contact information current.  You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at www.delawarestatejobs.com.

Accommodations

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.  The State of Delaware – An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.