NAGPRA Collections Associate, Archives

University of New Mexico•Albuquerque, NM

1d•$3,841 - $5,148•Onsite

About The Position

The Maxwell Museum of Anthropology (MMA) at the University of New Mexico (UNM) seeks a NAGPRA Collections Associate to support the work of the Museum in NAGPRA documentation and compliance for archaeological collections. We seek an enthusiastic professional with knowledge or education in the field of archaeology, familiarity with the material culture of the U.S. Southwest, and experience in archival research and processing. We are looking for an experienced, forward-thinking, collegial museum professional to work collaboratively to serve the Museum’s mission of “working towards greater understandings of the fullness of human experiences in the Southwest and the world,” and vision of “restoring voices, reconciling injustices and realizing community.” Founded in 1932, the Maxwell Museum holds large anthropological collections in four collecting divisions (archaeology, ethnology, osteology, and archives), with particular strengths in scholarship and research in the U.S. Southwest. The successful candidate will be a member of the Museum’s collection staff and will join a dedicated team of museum professionals in collections, archives, education, exhibitions, public programs and administration. Position Summary: Under supervision of the Archivist and the Collections Manager for Archaeology, the NAGPRA Collections Associate’s primary duties will include activities to document and prepare archival collections and records to support the Museum’s NAGPRA work. Responsibilities will include inventory and cataloging of records and archival materials on file in the Museum; updating database catalog records with additional information; rehousing archival materials (and other collections care activities); and tracking and maintaining records of project activities. In addition to the primary work to support the NAGPRA efforts for archival collections, the NAGPRA Collection Associate’s will assist in general collections management tasks. This is a full-time, 3.5 year term position, with possibility for renewal.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated knowledge of and experience working with archival collections, particularly those that deal with the cultures and history of Native American groups in the U.S. Southwest.
Demonstrated familiarity with archaeological field and laboratory methods and documentation and how excavation and other archaeological research documentation is created.
Knowledge of museum and/or lab collection policies, practices, and procedures, with preferred experience working with anthropological/archaeological and archival collections.
Familiarity with the ethical and legal requirements of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.
Proven ability to navigate highly sensitive and confidential issues and to act with a high degree of cultural sensitivity.
Demonstrated computer proficiency, including experience utilizing museum collections databases, Microsoft Suite, Adobe Acrobat Pro, and scanning software.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills; demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse colleagues and community members as part of a team of professionals.
Experience working on a variety of tasks, meeting deadlines, and demonstrated attention to detail while working on complex projects.

Responsibilities

Assist the Archivist and Collections Manager for Archaeology in inventorying, processing, cataloguing, and preventative conservation of archival collections at the museum.
Assist the Collections Manager for Archaeology in the review of museum collection records to support the museum’s compliance with NAGPRA.
Compile information from archival records and documentation.
Update records in the Museum’s CollectiveAccess database based on documentation and consultation.
Assist the Museum’s NAGPRA Coordinator with tasks related to consultation, communication, documentation, and other relevant activities.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.