Admin Asst (temp) - Full-time / Part-time

How to Apply This unique opportunity will appeal to the candidate who thrives in a cohesive, team-based environment, and who understands the possibilities and challenges of being part of a large university environment. For full consideration please provide a resume, with cover letter, describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position requirements.

Job Summary With the support of the Institute for Museum and Library Services, the University of Michigan's "Engaged Learning Collections Access Project" will create and enhance data for 5,000 works of art in the Museum's collections. UMMA is hiring two part-time collections data assistants to work with the Museum's curators and collections staff to document and improve data---including applying established keywords to improve searchability---for objects identified as user priorities. UMMA's The Engaged Learning Collections Access team will conduct research in five collections areas (African Art, Asian Art, Western Art, Modern and Contemporary Art, and Photography) and will focus on fact-checking and basic research to prepare for use on a new UMMA website, collections management system, and digital humanities exchange.

The project is from November 1, 2015 through October 31, 2016. Two positions are available, each for approximately 20 hours a week. A six-month commitment is required. The work site is in Ann Arbor. One position is available to start as soon as possible, the second position is available to start in early April, 2016.

Responsibilities* These positions are critical in support of the Museum's efforts to build a more accurate, rich set of data to be deployed across three digital tools. This work will make a substantial contribution to UMMA's strategic objectives in the areas of outreach, and teaching and learning for three key audiences: K-12 teachers and students, University instructors and students, and informal learning for youth and adult learners. The Collections Data Assistant positions will work closely with collections and technology staff as well as with curators and collections researchers, who will be specifically charged with basic collections research for prioritized objects and groups of objects.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities Under the Guidance of Collections Staff

Assist in the review of data standards and the development of data entry guidelines Train and support team members to perform accurate data entry and to execute simple and advanced searches of UMMA's collections management system Learn and use appropriate art-handling techniques to coordinate the movement of objects in the Museum, including tracking and managing locations of objects Schedule and assist with object-study classroom appointments Assist with the coordination of object image workflows Assist with access to curatorial and artist files, while preserving confidentiality of sensitive records Provide accurate data entry for new information being compiled by the project Check and proofread records entered by team members for correct data entry and adherence to UMMA data standards Other duties as required

Required Qualifications* Experience with collections management databases as well as an understanding of controlled vocabularies, data standards and consistency in managing data entry is required. Must possess a good work ethic and be able to multi-task and work independently as well as take direction. Must possess a well-developed attention to detail. Must possess strong administrative skills to coordinate and assist with multiple projects and meet deadlines. Must possess the flexibility and desire to work in a team environment. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are necessary. Must possess the ability to assess multiple facets of a project and problem solve as needed. Skill with word processing, spreadsheet and calendar/communications software packages is necessary.

Desired Qualifications* Current or recent enrollment in a related graduate-level professional academic program, such as Library, Information or Museum Studies is preferred. Educational background in Art or Art History is preferred. Library or museum experience is preferred.

Mission Statement The University of Michigan Museum of Art seeks to transform individual and civic life by promoting the discovery, contemplation, and enjoyment of the art of our world.

U-M EEO/AA Statement The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.