MPM Position Description for Curatorial Section Volunteers Anthropology, Botany, Geology and History

PURPOSE:   Assist curators in meeting the needs of MPM in maintaining the public's trust.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge Base - Experience and degrees must be commensurate with curatorial needs.
Skills Required - Availability M-F 8-4 for a 5 hour shift once a week at MPM for at least 10 consecutive months, punctuality, patience, trustworthy, understanding of the implications of the "public trust" in MPM, loyal to a museum culture, ability to take oral instruction and follow through, ask questions if you don’t understand, pay attention to detail, accuracy rather than speed, comfortable with menial tasks as well as conducting research, must have demonstrated good to excellent organizational skills. Presentation skills helpful but not required.
Extra Resume Required - In addition to the volunteer application, background check and drug-free environment form required of all volunteers, you must submit one extra page documenting the above skills that you have.
Computer Skills - Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and ACCESS and a willingness to learn other programs.
Physical Requirements - Must be able to bend, turn and lift 20 pounds. Have good eyesight. No uncontrolled allergies to dust.

RESPONSIBILITIES:   Varies per department: Provide day-to-day collections support through working with objects, documentation, and/or computers. Carry out duties for the department as needed and under the guidance of the Curator and Collection Manager. Duties may include (but are not limited to) assisting with cataloging acquisitions and keeping records, assisting with the care of the collection helping with inquiries from researchers and the public, assisting with presentations/tours to staff and/or the public, assisting in organizing exhibitions and providing assistance in research projects. Must follow all procedures described in the Volunteer Handbook.

HOURS and AVAILABILITY / MINIMUM COMMITMENT REQUIRED:   One 5 hour shift per week Monday through Friday for a minimum of 10 consecutive months to be dependent on the curator’s availability. Punctuality required; notification of the staff member if absent for a scheduled shift.

TRAINING:   Training supplied by supervising curatorial staff.

SUPPORT:   Support provided by supervising curatorial staff.

DRESS CODE:   Business Casual when working with the public. Jeans OK when working behind the scenes.

CONTACT PERSON:   Volunteer Coordinator will conduct interview and orientation to MPM. The curator will also interview you to determine your fit with the need. Then curatorial staff will train you, set up your volunteer schedule, communicate with you regularly, and be your primary contact for this position.