Museum Curator (Food & Wine History), IS-1015-13

Smithsonian Institution • Washington, DC

117d • $120,579 - $156,755

About The Position

The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is located in the Division of Work and Industry, Office of Curatorial Affairs, Department of Public History, at the National Museum of American History (NMAH), Smithsonian Institution (SI). The Winiarski Curator of Food and Wine History will lead the museum’s Food History Project, a multidisciplinary initiative that explores American history through the lens of food and drink. At the IS-13 level, the curator will work individually and collaboratively to conduct complex research, collect objects and archival materials, and develop exhibitions and programs around a broad range of food-related topics and themes for the benefit of the public. This position may require occasional work during evenings, weekends, and holidays in accordance with Smithsonian Institution policy. This position requires occasional travel for research, collecting, and conferences around the United States and may potentially require international travel in accordance with Smithsonian Institution policy.

Requirements

• Four-year Degree in museum work or in an applicable subject-matter field related to food and wine history (e.g., American history, American studies, food studies, etc.) OR Four years of experience that provided knowledge comparable to that normally acquired through the successful completion of the 4-year course of study.
• Expert scholarly knowledge within the context and historiography of American history with emphasis on food and wine history in the United States and its territories.
• Skill in developing public history products such as physical or virtual exhibitions or programs.
• Skill in researching and collecting objects related to historical field, including contributing to the strategic acquisition and deaccession of objects.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively collaborate with colleagues across divisions as well as with specialists in collections management, design, production, writing/editing, education, public programs, and project management.
• Ability to write, speak, and report on research topics in the field both for a scholarly audience and in a format that encourages public understanding.
• Skill in leading or participating in workshops and symposia, presenting at national or international conferences and events, or participating in national or international projects.
• Candidates who possess a PhD in a related field of study (American history, American studies, food studies, etc.) are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Undertake complex research projects in American food history, which may include related sub-fields of agricultural history, cultural history, history of technology, labor history, and business history.
• Conduct research that results in a publishable addition to the body of knowledge on which their division focuses and particularly on the subject of food and wine history, including gallery exhibitions, online digital exhibitions, books or articles, live public programs, secondary school curricula, documentaries, podcasts, blogs, online games, virtual reality experiences, among others.
• Develop dynamic public programs which share insights with and invite input from public audiences, in collaboration with museum staff and partners within and outside of the Smithsonian.
• Shape and foster the stewardship of the food history collections through strategic acquisition and deaccession following museum procedures.
• Ensure that documentation of objects and collections is accurate and available in the museum’s data management systems.
• Build and sustain collegial and reciprocal relationships with internal colleagues, object donors, and relevant community stakeholders.
• Serve as an expert consultant and advisor to colleagues, educational institutions, research foundations, scholars, other government agencies and the general public.
• Present scholarly papers and make public presentations representing the project, the museum, and the Smithsonian.

Benefits

• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Transit/Commuter Benefits
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
• Annual and Sick Leave
• Family Friendly Leave
• 403b Retirement Plan
• Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants
• Credit Union
• Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care)
• Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree