Archivist/Curatorial Information Manager 

(October 16, 2022)

Position Title- Archivist/Curatorial Information Manager

Supervisor Title (All entry and mid-level position supervisors should be qualified, professional archivists.)- Chief Curator/Deputy Director

Position Type - Full-time,permanent

Benefits - Yes

Salary Range - $56,000 - $65,000

Mission Statement

The Norman Rockwell Museum illuminates the power of American illustration art to reflect and shape society, and advances the enduring values of kindness, respect, and social equity portrayed by Norman Rockwell.

As a center devoted to the art of illustration, the Museum also exhibits the works of contemporary and past masters in an ongoing series of compelling artist showcases. Set on a picturesque 36-acre estate in the hometown of America’s favorite artist, the Norman Rockwell Museum is one of the crown jewels of the Berkshires.

Equity Statement

NRM embraces the values of diversity, equity, access, and inclusion to create a successful workplace and a more equitable society. Our mission embodies these values. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of identities, experiences, backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the more successful the organization, its employees, and our work in the world will be. Norman Rockwell Museum is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to equity and inclusion. We make every effort to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics. Norman Rockwell Museum is a drug-free workplace.

The Position

Under the direction of the Deputy Director/Chief Curator, the Archivist/Curatorial Information Manager maintains the daily operations, procedures, organization and preservation of the Norman Rockwell Museum’s collection of archival materials, which include the extant papers, photographic collections, first published uses, audio/visual materials, and objects relating to twentieth century American illustrator, Norman Rockwell, as well as materials relating to other noted artists who achieved recognition in the field. Responsibilities include processing and preserving diverse archival collections; establishing and maintaining records; creating, consolidating, and standardizing finding aids; establishing a long-range conservation plan; management of archives databases; care of Rockwell’s personal library; and oversight of the Museum’s extensive Library of illustration-related books, recordings, and film-based materials. The Archivist/Curatorial Information Manager will work with Museum staff to create appropriate collection and access policies, as well as processing and accession guidelines for the Archives. This includes an access policy, retention policy, and digital preservation policy. This position is also responsible for image services and copyright management related to archival collections and their usage in publications or online platforms, exhibitions, and digital programs, and by outside parties.

In addition, the Archivist/Curatorial Information Manager is responsible for the management and development of the Museum’s digital collections and Collections Management System, EMu, and its online component, IMu. On behalf of the Curatorial Department, the Archivist/Curatorial Information Manager establishes protocols and policies relating to the system, and serves as the liaison with the Axiell Company, CompuWorks, and the Museum’s Digital staff in relation to the management of this program, or others that may be instituted in the future. Related responsibilities include updates and maintenance of records; oversight with Curatorial and Digital staff of the expansion and integration of database capabilities; the acquisition and ingest of new archival materials; and the continual maintenance of all collections database records—including bibliographic records, exhibition records, catalog raisonne records for Rockwell and illustrator Frank E. Schoonover, and related records; image and copyright management; and staff training in the use of the database as needed.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the long-term preservation of all Archival materials; monitor collection conditions and any preservation and arrangement needs
• Establish, update, and maintain all Archives department policies and procedures
• Survey, appraise, and recommend archival collections for acquisition; act as a liaison to donors of archival materials
• Provide planning strategies and oversight for the processing of archival collections, and implement best practices for data entry, cataloging, and digitization
• Plan, manage, and evaluate archival digitization projects, including the oversight of multi-year grant funded projects
• Establish protocols and supervise visits to the Archives from visiting scholars, students, and the general public; provide access to collection in person and remotely.
• Coordinate access to archival materials and images for Museum departments and projects, exhibitions, publications, and in response to any other internal photographic requests, including providing materials for press purposes.
• Manage and coordinate incoming photography inquiries and as well as rights and reproductions in tandem with external copyright agencies and guidance as needed
• Provide educational experiences relating to archival collections and practice to students and other groups. Work with students to inform and educate youth, college students, and others about the Museum’s archival collections. their historic value, and usage
• Write blog posts and articles, and develop exhibitions, to provide greater access to archival collections
• Identify Archival projects for funding and assist with grant writing and reporting
• Act as a liaison to outside entities such as auction houses, galleries, and other professional organizations
• Lead and oversee work relating to the Museum’s Collections Management System, EMu, and its online component, IMu. Establishes protocols and ensures accuracy relating to the documentation of information. Serves as the Curatorial Department leader and liaison in working with staff, the Axiell Company, CompuWorks, and others in relation to the theoretical and technical details of this program.
• Maintain digital best practice standards and consistency among all object/artwork records. Lead digital preservation planning for digitized collections and born-digital materials.
• Arrange, oversee, and provide access to the Museum Library collections
• Assess and recommend IT (software and hardware) needs related to both archival and collection management database operation and other special digital projects to curatorial and digital staff.
• Hire and supervise interns and grant-funded Archives staff
• Provide reporting and Archives budgets
• Performs other tasks as needed

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The qualifications listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Positive attitude and excellent relationship skills
• Provide direction and motivate performance
• Ability to supervise staff, including assigning work, evaluating, and providing training
• Customer service driven and team player
• Excellent decision-making skills, judgement, and adaptability
• Ability to maintain professional composure when dealing with a variety of circumstances
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively with visitors, staff, emergency personnel across diverse cultures.
• Demonstrate good judgment and handling of sensitive or confidential information
• Proficient with computer equipment and systems including Microsoft Office applications and payroll platforms
• Understanding of a variety of security and safety devices and controls
• Ability to develop policies, write routine correspondence, procedures, and reports
• Good organizational skills

Education/Experience

MLS or MA in history or a related subject area, plus archives management certificate and/or equivalent experience. Minimum of five years of work in an archive setting.

Knowledge of archival formats such as DACS, EAD, and Dublin Core. Experience working within a museum setting and/or familiarity with diverse archival collections. Strong written and oral communication skills. Knowledge of archival processing standards and procedures. Knowledge of archives management technology and access systems. Project management experience necessary.

Compensation: Exempt Status, $60,000 - $65,000

https://www.nrm.org/about/employment

Send Resume and Cover Letter to Employment@nrm.org