Collections Intern

Position Description: The Collections Intern will assist the Collections Manager with maintaining the
collections database, including cataloging and inventory of maritime-related artifacts, photos and archival
materials, as well as assisting with the organization of related research information, digital records, and legal
documentation associated with the museum’s collections.

● Registration: Cataloging incoming gifts in the collections management database.
● Collections Management: Performing inventory of collections facility artifacts, including objects, photographs, archival documents, and books. Tasks include updating artifact records and photographing/digitizing artifacts for input into PastPerfect, assisting with designing and creating proper storage enclosures for artifacts, basic conservation and cleaning of artifacts.

We are looking for individuals with some of the following skills and interests:
● Interest in museum studies, historic preservation, maritime history, or related fields.
● Ability to work independently and responsibly, as well as cooperatively on team projects.
● Basic computer literacy, with willingness to train in our museum software program (PastPerfect).
● Ability to lift between 25-50 lbs. and have good hand/eye motor coordination.
● Good verbal and written communication skills, with neat and legible handwriting.
● Highly detail-oriented with strict attention to spelling, grammar, and factual accuracy.
● Ability to contribute time on a consistent and routine basis.

Training and Equipment:
● Previous experience working with any type of collections management system is appreciated, but not
required. All necessary training in accessing/creating/organizing files will be provided, as well as
training in PastPerfect, proper artifact handling techniques, and departmental policies and procedures.
● Workstations for intern use will be provided.
● The facility is located offsite and a personal vehicle is recommended, but bus service is also available.

Time Commitment:
● Scheduling is flexible and will be oriented around student’s class time and other work schedules.
● Hours required: 6-12 hours per week, during regular operating hours (M-F 9-5)
● Due to training involved, a long-term commitment is preferred of at least several months, but short-term work opportunities are open for discussion on a case-by-case basis.

Students seeking college credit are welcome and appreciated. Written evaluations will be provided at the end of internship if requested, and meetings can also be arranged with faculty supervisors (at the beginning and end of internship) to review progress and discuss student evaluations. All interested candidates please submit a resume with references and a cover letter. A brief interview will also be arranged to introduce staff and discuss the internship more fully.

All interested candidates please submit a resume with references and a cover letter. Please submit materials to Lydia Rao via e-mail at lrao@sbmm.org, or call (805) 456-8740.