Introduction
The Prudence Crandall Museum is the site of the nation's first Academy for African-American young women. The museum is a National Historic Landmark and home of Connecticut's State Female Hero. The incumbent in this unique, one-person position will: oversee all aspects of the museum's daily operations; secure the building and its artifacts; coordinate the activities of seasonal staff and volunteers (docents); perform curatorial functions; assist with planning and executing museum programs, which includes researching, designing and installing exhibits; work collaboratively with the Friends of the Prudence Crandall Museum; maintain working relationships local, state and national historic organizations; work alone in a rural location and represent the museum to the public.
Interested applicants are required to upload a cover letter and résumé. (Note: in order to upload documents you must ensure that your internet browser's 'pop-up' blocker is off. Failure to do so may prevent you from being able to upload documentation into JobAps.) Questions about these required documents should be directed to Linda.Shackett-Blue@ct.gov or (860)713-5179.
PURPOSE OF JOB CLASS (NATURE OF WORK)
In the State Library or Department of Economic and Community Development, Division of Culture, this class is accountable for independently performing a full range of tasks in a museum or historical site involving the interpretation, conservation and exhibition of small historical museum collections.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
Performs research required for exhibition of museum collections such as preparation of bibliographies or compilation of biographical information; abstracts or summarizes historical source material relating to museum collections or exhibits; monitors progress of contractors or preservation specialists engaged in repair or restoration of historic structures and museum artifacts; implements museum educational programs facilitating public understanding of collections; registers and catalogs collection items and new acquisitions; maintains museum records; prepares correspondence to interested groups and individuals concerning collections or exhibits; speaks before groups concerning museum and its collection; may assist in the development of brochures, guides and museum publications; may conduct small privately requested tours of specific museum collections; performs related duties as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY
Knowledge of American history with particular reference to social, cultural and technological trends as reflected in museum collections and themes; knowledge of methods used in cataloging, preservation, restoration and storage of historic collections; knowledge of basic research source materials; interpersonal skills; oral and written communication skills; ability to perform simple historic research; ability to prepare exhibits of museum collections; ability to utilize computer software.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - GENERAL EXPERIENCE
Six (6) years of professional museum experience with responsibility for preservation and exhibition of historical museum collections.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED
1. College training may be substituted for the General Experience on the basis of fifteen (15) semester hours equalling one-half (1/2) year of experience to a maximum of four (4) years for a Bachelor's degree.
2. A Master's degree in American history, American studies, archaelogy, art history, museum studies or a closely related field may be substituted for one (1) additional year of the General Experience.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
At least one year experience working in a related capacity at a historical society or historic house, history museum or historic site; Experience presenting historic information to audiences of all ages, especially students grades K through 12; Work experience interpreting African-American history, Women's history, or Native American history; Experience taking responsibility for the care and restoration of historic structures; Professional experience using social media; Experience using Microsoft Office Suite and graphic design software.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Appropriate mobility to be able to give guided tours to the public; physical ability to perform light custodial work and basic security; ability to work with minimal supervision.
Conclusion
AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.
