Manager of Collections and Visitor Experience

Manager of Collections and Visitor Experience
Position Description

Job Summary:

The Manager of Collections and Visitor Experience will manage collections, including maintenance and supervision of artifact storage, cataloging, and accessioning. They will also coordinate all aspects of the museum’s membership program, assist with tours, and general operations of the facility. Other duties may vary based on the needs of the museum. The position will report directly to the Executive Director.

Major Responsibilities:

• Maintains and supervises the maintenance of artifacts and organization in storage.
  Supervises and completes artifact cataloging, including numbering, physical description, photography, and placement in storage.
• Manages and maintains collection records (worksheets, conservation records, inventories, and computer data)
• Reviews collections work completed by volunteers.
• Assists in exhibit development and interpretive programs.
• Responsible for the Museum’s continuing efforts to promote and increase all areas of membership (individual, family, corporate/business).
• Executes personal follow-up plan for membership renewals, lapsed memberships, and new prospect solicitation.
• Responsible for data entry and keeping up-to-date records, solicitation, and renewal letter input and generation, and mailing of membership cards.
• Attends professional meetings when appropriate and feasible, including board meetings.
• Position will require working occasional weekends, including Sundays.
• Will be responsible for coordinating and assisting with special fundraising and member events.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including but not limited to, guest tours, gift shop duties, cleaning, etc…

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge of: General office management principles and practices, including record maintenance, cash handling, inventory management, and general history of the area/tourism industry.

Skill in: Communicating clearly and effectively, orally and in writing, with the public, community organizations, tourism providers, and staff. Must be able to read and interpret policies and procedures; prepare a variety of reports, records, and correspondences; maintain a filing and recordkeeping system. Skills in social media, web design, and collections software are a plus.

Education:  Bachelor’s Degree in History or a similar field, including museum studies or a related field.

Experience: Must possess customer service, cash handling, and museum knowledge. 3-5 years of collections experience is preferred, but not required.

Physical Demands Requirements and Working Conditions:

This is primarily an office classification, although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required. The ability to climb stairs is also required. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects that weigh up to 50 pounds without assistance. Employees work in an environment with limited noise levels and controlled temperatures. Employees may interact with upset members of the public or their representatives while enforcing museum policies and procedures.

Compensation and Benefits:

This is a full-time, salaried position with benefits. Benefits include PTO, 403b plan, and health insurance stipend. Starting wage of $17.00 per hour, but negotiable based on experience. After completing a 3-month probationary period, employees can receive tuition and travel support for professional development as the budget allows.

Interested applicants should submit a resume and letter of interest via email to Ashley LaVigne, Executive Director at koochmuseums@gmail.com, or by mail to:

Koochiching County Historical Society

Attn: Ashley LaVigne

214 6th Avenue

International Falls, MN 56649

Applications should be submitted by May 31st, 2025. Should the position go unfilled, it will re-open and stay open until the vacancy is filled.