GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS

The MUSEUM ASSISTANT provides assistance in a museum with the entry, exit, storage, and recording of collection and exhibition items.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This is a single classification and not currently part of a series of classes.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Handling of Museum Pieces. Typical tasks: receives, identifies, and checks condition of exhibition items; packs and unpacks shipments to professional standards as required by insurance and/or carrier; assists registrar with storage and retrieval, observing special handling and storage procedures to protect archival and exhibition objects against climate changes, chemical damage, and/or vibrations.
2. Records and Research. Typical tasks: maintains the documentation/ catalog files on items and/or artists in the museum; researches items in collection to compose information to be included on exhibit labels (e.g., interviews artist, reviews materials supplied with exhibition, researches library/archival materials); corresponds with galleries, museums, dealers, artists, lenders, or donors for biographical data and information on art or artifacts.
3. Miscellaneous. Typical tasks: maintains supplies of color slides, museum publications and catalogs of museum exhibitions, and fills mail orders for these items as requested; maintains museum reference library; answers letters of inquiry related to collections and exhibition items; confers with museum personnel regarding status of museum projects, proposed shipping and transfer dates of exhibits in order to organize and prioritize work; provides front desk reception services as required.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS

Employees in this class have regular written, telephone, and in person contact with artists, donors, and representatives of museums to exchange information, and with museum faculty and personnel to receive directions and exchange information regarding the museum and its collections. There is regular contact with visitors to the museum, museum personnel, and volunteers to answer questions and offer information.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Employees in this class receive general supervision from a museum director and/or registrar who assigns work and observes the employee to assure that work is performed within the procedures and standards of the museum. Employees in this class follow agency and museum manuals and reference materials in the handling, storage, and labeling of exhibit items.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Education, training, and/or experience demonstrating a knowledge of general museum operating procedures and standards.