FLMNH Collections Manager II

Classification Title: Collections Manager II Job Description:

Essential duties for this position will include the curation of archaeological and ethnographic collection: Manage, maintain, and upgrade archaeological collections, including wet-curated specimens, as well as ethnographic objects and multi-media records. These responsibilities include maintaining proper curatorial and conservation environments for different collections types; coordinating loans and acquisitions; overseeing collections database and upgrades, and artifact cataloguing; maintaining division records and reports; maintaining collection and laboratory operations safety; maintaining and upgrading SFAE laboratory equipment and supplies; providing assistance to visiting scientists and scholars; facilitating and participating in public outreach and education; coordinating the maintenance and use of the Randell Research Center (RRC) archaeology laboratory and managing RRC archaeological collections as part of the SFAE collections. Work with Curator to modify and develop policies related to long-term strategic plan for maintenance and improvement of the SFAE collection and laboratory, and to secure funds to support collection curation and management. Liaise and foster collaboration with Florida’s Indigenous communities and organizations. Serve on FLMNH committees.

Management of South Florida Archaeology and Ethnography Collection and Research Data: Consult regularly with the FM Anthropology Registrar on accessioning, loans, documents management, and NAGPRA-related issues as necessary. Coordinate and upgrade data management systems, including computer databases, spreadsheets, and traditional paper-based systems. Integrate comparative and archaeological collection data from out-dated systems into revised databases. Enter and proof new collections and research data. Format existing and incoming collections and catalog records according to standardized data entry protocols. Improve standards of data and data-entry protocols. Maintain and upgrade database and computer system security and capacity.

Management of SFAE Personnel: Coordinate collections and laboratory use by all personnel. Interview and evaluate OPS applicants, train and supervise OPS, work study and other employees, students, and volunteers working in SFAE.

Management of South Florida Archaeology and Ethnography Finances and Accounts: Coordinate and manage OE and OPS budgets for current contracts, grants, state funds, and foundation funds. Inventory equipment and supplies associated with SFAE and purchase supplies and equipment as needed. Maintain all associated records.

Participation in South Florida Archaeology and Ethnography Research: SFAE-related research in the lab and/or field, including participating in research projects in cooperation with, and assisting, the Curator. This may include assisting in composing research grant proposals and the preparation of research reports and publications. This may extend to academic service such as reviewing publications and grant proposals, and taking on roles in professional service to societies and journals focused on Florida archaeology, historical ecology research, and collections management.

South Florida Archaeology and Ethnography Outreach Activities: Participate in public education programs and exhibit planning within and outside the FM. Coordination of tours and press visits within the SFAE collection; preparation of appropriate educational outreach devices (i.e., website, educational programs, displays). Respond to requests for identifications and information from researchers and the general public. Guest lecture in classes (graduate or undergraduate) through an affiliated department (e.g., Anthropology, Biology, etc.) as desired and as time permits.

Management of the Randell Research Center Archaeological Collections and Laboratory: In consultation with the Operations Manager of the Randell Research Center (RRC), RRC Director(s), and SFAE Curator, coordinate and assist in the maintenance and management of archaeological collections, modern comparative collections, and laboratory supplies and equipment on site at the RRC located on Pine Island, Florida, including: coordinate and upgrade data management systems and maintaining proper curatorial and conservation environments for different collection types; coordinate transport of archaeological and modern collections between the RRC and the SFAE collections in Gainesville; effectively correspond about cataloguing and collections accessions. Work with the RRC Director(s), Operations Manager, and SFAE Curator to modify and develop policies related to long-term strategic plan for maintenance and improvement of the RRC archaeological laboratory. Participate in and help facilitate SFAE outreach efforts at the RRC.

Expected Salary:

$38,000.00 - 53,000.00, commensurate with education and experience.

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree in related field and five years of experience working with a collection of an appropriate discipline. Specific knowledge of the discipline for the collection area is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. preferred, with a background in archaeological and anthropological sciences and at least three years of experience working with an archaeological and/or ethnographic collection. Proficiency in the identification of archaeological and ethnographic objects and their curation in accordance with standards of the discipline. Inclusive of:
  • A basic understanding of pre-Columbian and Historic Florida ceramic, bone, stone, wood, shell, and metal artifacts.
  • Basic knowledge of Florida’s historical and contemporary Indigenous communities and their history and material culture.
  • An understanding of curatorial standards and collections management requirements specific to archaeological artifact and ethnographic object types.
  • Basic knowledge of historical ecology and environmental archaeology desirable, including but not limited to archaeobotany, archaeological soils, and zooarchaeology. Basic knowledge of human skeletal remains desirable.
• Experience in managing broadly based curatorial and collection management responsibilities, and appropriate skills in managing a paid staff and unpaid volunteers, graduate students, and undergraduate student assistants.
• Ability to successfully secure grants for collections management and/or use.
• Demonstrated ability for effective scholarly writing, research, and communication with peers, students, and the general public, including social media and website content.
• Knowledge and adherence to rules and regulations associated with archaeological collections in the state of Florida and federal NAGPRA compliance.
• Must be conversant with database development and management.
• Must be able to work independently so that day-to-day activities do not require constant monitoring by the immediate supervisor.
• Must have good organizational skills.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Target start date by October 1, 2021. In order to be considered, you must upload 1) a professional CV or resumé, 2) a cover letter of up to two pages highlighting their relevant collections management and/or museum curation experience, professional background, and research, and 3) a one page statement describing their past or current contributions to IDEA, and/or future aspirations for the Florida Museum’s and the University of Florida’s commitment to increasing Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity, and Accessibility within STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) education and disciplines. For inquires concerning this position, contact Dr. Michelle LeFebvre, Search Chair, mlefebvre@floridamuseum.ufl.edu .

The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to building a broadly diverse and inclusive faculty and staff. The University of Florida invites all qualified applicants, including minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirements under the Florida Sunshine and Public Records laws.

The Florida Museum’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At FM, we strive to create a more diverse and inclusive student, faculty, and staff experience at the University of Florida. As a university-based museum, we believe it is essential that we, as educators, develop pathways for learners of all ages and wide-ranging audiences toward increased diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion in STEM and Social Science disciplines and workforces. We are committed to the ongoing self-reflection and work needed to serve students from historically underrepresented groups within the greater University of Florida community, especially through student mentorship, teaching.

Applications must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. of the posting end date.

In order to be considered for this position, applicants must upload a résumé, cover letter, and list of references.

Health Assessment Required: Yes