MPM is seeking 2 temporary, part-time Collections Move Technicians to support the museum’s goal of moving its 4 million object collection to a new building. The technicians will operate within the museum’s Natural Science department, with possible work in the Botany, Geology, and Zoology collections. The Technicians will work collaboratively under the supervision of the museum’s collections move project associate. Initial work will focus on undertaking a systematic evaluation of the museum’s botanical collections, which include herbarium specimens, wood cuts, and plant models. In addition to these tasks, future projects may include work with fluid-preserved collections and other dry, zoological collections, paleontological and mineral collections, and taxidermy specimens.

The schedule for the position is Monday through Thursday from 8:30 – 3:30, and the position will run for approximately 1 year with the possibility for extension. To perform this job successfully, ideal candidates will be expected to complete the following duties:

Safely handle and manipulate museum specimens
Read and transcribe identifying numbers from specimen labels, catalog books, and catalog cards
Swiftly generate digital records from transcribed data into a spreadsheet
Create, tie, and otherwise attach barcodes to museum specimens
Photograph specimens and drawers of specimens as required
Critically assess specimen stability and material makeup, pre-packing
Pack and unpack various types of specimens safely and securely
Fabricate basic packing supports out of archival materials
Construct crates and other large scale packing material
Operate a standard pallet jack to move packed crates
Perform basic operations within Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft products
Other move-related collections duties as assigned
Education and/or Experience:

A documented history (which can include undergraduate or graduate experience) in natural science coursework, or commensurate experience with the natural sciences, is required. Specific work with an herbarium or botanical collections is preferred. The ideal candidate will have previous experience with plant taxonomy and/or knowledge of plant families and genera.

Competencies:
Comfortable undertaking fine dexterity work and handling delicate materials
Ability to complete repetitive tasks consistently, while maintaining accuracy, safety, and integrity
Detail oriented, with strong problem-solving skills
Ability to wear PPE appropriate to the tasks assigned
Strongly developed 3D-spatial reasoning skills
Capable of working independently and as part of a team
The ability to use a ladder, and spend much of the day standing, bending, and lifting
Familiarity with Microsoft products, with specific experience in Excel
Proficient typing skills
Benefits

Dental and Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off Package
401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
Free Museum Membership
Museum Shop, Food, & Beverage Discounts
Parking Subsidy/Discounted Bus Pass