Collections & Exhibition Specialist

Hattiesburg Convention Commission•Hattiesburg, MS

10d

About The Position

The Collections & Exhibition Specialist is responsible for maintaining, preserving, cataloguing, and storing museum artifacts, overseeing exhibition development and object handling and care, and maintaining electronic files. The role is primarily stationed at the African American Military History Museum and requires travel to all Hattiesburg Convention Commission facilities, including the Lake Terrace Convention Center, Saenger Theater, Sixth Street Museum District, and Hattiesburg Zoo. The specialist will be self-directed, energetic, and highly motivated, with a strong desire to enhance the collections of the Sixth Street Museum District.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies, Libraries & Information Science, and/or a related field.
Maintain a valid driver’s license and meet eligibility requirements to drive while conducting company business.
Exceptional organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
Strong research skills and knowledge of African American history and culture.
Ability to work independently in a multitask environment and as part of a team.
Ability to maintain organized records.

Nice To Haves

Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Suite.
Background in art.

Responsibilities

Document, catalogue, and categorize items in the museums’ collections and new acquisitions to ensure each piece is accounted for and accessible.
Locate and present high-quality works for display in Commission museums and transient exhibits, which may be housed outside Commission-operated facilities; travel may be required.
Write, create, and install explanatory exhibition materials.
Develop exhibitions from the museum collection that align with museum missions and programming, as well as patriotic holidays and themes.
Research and document the history of acquisitions for the Sixth Street Museum District.
Maintain all digital records and collections.
Select archival materials needed to preserve collection items.
Oversee object handling and provide museum staff with training on proper handling.
Follow and implement national standards and best practices for U.S. museums in managing collections.
Establish and maintain strong relationships with donors and potential donors.
Work with the Museum Operations and Education Supervisor to advance educational goals through exhibit design and consider the visitor experience in the collaborative process.
Complete detailed condition reports for traveling exhibits managed by the Sixth Street Museum District, documenting item condition upon arrival and departure.
Secure and care for objects in traveling exhibits.
Assist museum staff with special events, projects, and other duties as needed.