Curator

The National World War II Museum Inc•New Orleans, LA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The National WWII Museum is currently seeking a Curator. Reporting to the Associate Vice President of Curatorial Affairs, the Curator is a vital member of the curatorial team and works closely with collections, archives, digitization, exhibits, and education staff members. The Curator participates in the research, proposal, and documentation of acquisitions; publication and presentation on the collection; and will serve as lead on exhibition projects, including the proposal of exhibition themes. This position requires extensive knowledge of WWII material culture, strong written and verbal communication skills, precise attention to detail, and the ability to communicate and work with both scholarly audiences and the general public. A demonstrated team player, the Curator must be able to work independently and collaboratively with a small staff and vigorous work schedule under the guidance of the Associate Vice President of Curatorial Affairs.

Requirements

MA in History, Museum Science or related specialty
Minimum of four years’ experience in a curatorial role at a history museum, cultural center, or similar institution
Extensive knowledge of the American Experience during World War II with emphasis on World War II-era material culture; specialization preferred
Thorough knowledge of cataloging procedures and standards with a demonstrated ability to work with computerized collections databases
Thorough understanding of best practices for collection stewardship
Exceptional research and verbal and written communication skills
Strong project management and organizational skills
Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to work well with colleagues, other employees, donors, lenders, and guests

Nice To Haves

Specialization in World War II-era material culture

Responsibilities

Work with the entire curatorial team on donor relations and regularly participate in the Museum’s Acquisition Review Committee
Evaluate, propose, and organize new collections to fill gaps within the Museum’s collection
Inventory, catalog, and document artifacts and archival items in the Museum’s collection management system (Ke EMu)
Research, compile, and prepare written information about collections for publication on the institution's website and other channels
Investigate and develop opportunities for temporary special exhibitions in support of the Museum’s mission, preparing exhibition proposals 3-4 years in advance for review and approval by department heads and by the President & CEO
Actively participate in the development of permanent exhibits and other special projects as needed
Select and prepare items for rotation in permanent exhibits across the Museum’s campus as assigned
Work with members of Education to develop, produce, and analyze exhibition-related programming, educational materials, and didactics
Prepare and present lectures and other public programs
Conduct and/or organize tours, workshops, and instructional sessions to acquaint individuals with the Museum’s collections
Present on collections and exhibitions to the general public through gallery walks, print and online articles, media opportunities and other venues
Conduct original research on the Museum collections and present and/or publish research in academic and scholarly venues and at appropriate conferences
Identify and coordinate research opportunities for scholars and students
Provide support in the preparation of grants and other funding proposals to generate revenue in support of curatorial, collections, and exhibit initiatives
Provide information, ideas, suggestions, and assistance to the Institutional Advancement department in the formulation of sponsorship packages for programs, events, exhibits, and other activities
Provide information and assistance to Marketing and Communications department to develop communication and marketing materials and strategies regarding collections, exhibitions, and programs

Benefits

Medical insurance – 2 plan options; Museum pays 75% of premium
Dental and vision insurance
Flexible spending account
401(k) – Museum matches 50% of employee contribution up to 6%; employer contribution full vested after 3 years of employment
Life insurance and AD&D - $15,000 policy employer paid; additional life and AD&D available
Long term disability insurance
Paid vacation and sick leave, 10 paid holidays per year
Free parking
Tuition assistance and professional development
Employee assistance program