Assistant Registrar

Honolulu Academy of Arts•Honolulu, HI

6d•$51,000 - $56,000•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Registrar and in coordination with Collections Department staff, the Assistant Registrar ensures the proper care, documentation, handling, storage, security, and environment of permanent collection and loan objects. The role supports collections management and care, maintains object and loan records in TMS, prepares loan agreements, produces condition reports, assists with rights and reproductions inquiries, and provides general departmental support. The position may occasionally serve as courier for collection loans and may perform other duties as assigned. The role includes communicating with lenders, contractors, government agencies, and a diverse community of visitors, artists, and employees. The Assistant Registrar is expected to foster an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible culture through respectful communication, cooperation, training, and inclusive behavior. In partnership with HR, the position also supports leadership efforts to strengthen inclusion and belonging. The position generally follows office hours Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexible scheduling as appropriate. Work is usually in an air-conditioned office or gallery, and may also take place in a basement, courtyards, or a loading dock. Some evening and weekend hours may be required. The role involves physical activity, including extended sitting or standing, walking on uneven surfaces, using stairs and step stools, bending, reaching, handling objects and tools, and lifting or carrying up to 50 pounds. A cover letter is required to be considered.

Requirements

Master’s degree in information/library science, Museum Studies, Art History, or a related degree.
Two years’ experience working in a museum, special collection, or collection repository.
Two years’ experience in collection care and management.
Knowledge of and sensitivity to the proper handling and care of artwork.
Knowledge of best practices in collections management.
Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse population of service users, with demonstrated success in multiple locations and work environments.
Cataloguing experience and knowledge of TMS software.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
Ability to pass a Security Threat Assessment from the Department of Homeland Security.
Ability to pass TSA training requirements.
Valid State of Hawai‘i driver’s license.
Honesty, integrity, and a strong work ethic supported by commitment, enthusiasm, and follow-through.
Ability to work within and support a diverse community of visitors, artists, and employees.
Ability to work some evening and weekend hours.
Ability to fulfill essential duties with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

Strong database and computer skills, including Microsoft Suite.
Familiarity with and willingness to learn international fine art copyright law and limitations.
Ability to conduct detailed visual examinations and produce thorough object condition reports.
Self-starter committed to the museum’s mission.
Working experience in a museum or nonprofit environment.
Ability to solve problems creatively and quickly while prioritizing artwork safety and the Museum’s best interests.
Adaptable, organized, detail-oriented, flexible, and professional; able to analyze data, draw conclusions, and create methodologies.
Sensitivity and tact in communication with donors and lenders, and ability to maintain absolute confidentiality regarding donor and lender portfolios.
Ability to work independently and as a team member on multiple projects.
Ability to work under pressure and complete projects in a timely manner without compromising accuracy.
Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally.
Understanding of and dedication to advancing the Honolulu Museum of Art’s identity, vision, and values.

Responsibilities

Maintain collections-care and art-handling standards in accordance with AAM best practices.
Enter object information and assist with maintaining the collections database (TMS).
Enter loan and collection objects into TMS.
Prepare loan agreements for incoming and outgoing loans.
Assist with communication with lenders, contractors, and government agencies.
Produce condition reports for incoming and outgoing artworks.
Assist with collection-related projects.
Occasionally act as courier for collection loans.
Process and complete rights and reproductions inquiries for the permanent collection.
Provide general department support as needed.
Foster and preserve a culture of inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility through respectful communication, cooperation, continuous training, and inclusive behaviors.
Partner with HR to support leadership in ensuring equitable experiences, strengthening inclusion acumen, and promoting a culture of belonging.
Perform other duties as assigned.