Part-time museum registrar

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Palmer Museum of Art in the College of Arts and Architecture at Penn State is seeking a detail-oriented individual to be responsible for digitally imaging the objects in the collection, primarily through DSLR photography of 2D and 3D objects on a part-time basis. Reporting to the Senior Registrar, this position will assist in the digital asset management of the collection. This individual is responsible for taking and making accessible high-quality photographs of collections, for a wide spectrum of uses, including the collections management database, photographic archives, and the Web site as well as other publications.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Skill to operate professional digital cameras, scanners and associated accessories and equipment to photograph museum objects.
• Knowledge of best practices in object collections handling or a willingness to train in best practices.
• Demonstrated image editing and deployment experience.
• Working knowledge of image metadata and color management experience.
• Portfolio/website of current photography.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Photograph three-dimensional works of art and cultural collection objects using a digital camera. Photograph two-dimensional works of art, photographic prints, and ephemera meeting Museum standards using a copy stand mounted medium format digital camera.
• Processes images adhering to the digital imaging workflow, including but not limited to file naming and metadata entry at point of capture; prepares color-accurate image files for archiving, print, and electronic reproduction.
• In consultation with the Senior Registrar, plan the composition of the photograph; select the appropriate technical approach, equipment, and accessories to generate preservation-grade images.
• Possess knowledge of art objects to minimize risk while collections pieces are being photographed.
• Possess experience utilizing professional digital camera systems including studio lighting setups.
• Ensure Photography is saved into the Museum’s server and backup devices for archival integrity.

ABOUT THE PALMER MUSEUM

The Palmer Museum of Art in the College of Arts & Architecture at Penn State is the largest art museum collection between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia and the most significant academic art museum in the state of Pennsylvania. Through its world-class objects, programs and outreach, the free Museum is a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant forum for authentic arts experiences that cultivates meaningful dialogue about today’s most potent ideas and pressing concerns. Its new, state-of-the-art museum is located in and partners with The Arboretum at Penn State. It is a forward-thinking and expansive 21st-century teaching museum and beacon for advancing the arts and humanities on Penn State’s University Park campus and throughout its diverse communities. The Palmer is dedicated to catalyzing groundbreaking research, scholarship and publications and providing impactful, object-based learning for Penn State and K-12 students. The Palmer’s rewarding and thought-provoking exhibitions and programs promote visitor participation, belonging and discovery.

The Palmer Museum and College of Arts & Architecture work to establish a fair and just culture of anti-oppression that embraces individual identities, fosters a culture of inclusion, and promotes equity through curricula, values, standards, ideals, policies, and practices. The ideal candidate will provide evidence of their experience with, and deep interest in, contributing to these goals. Please show evidence of equitable considerations, awareness, and practice regarding inclusive practices in educating varied audiences and populations to cultivate a culture that supports success and enables all members of a community to thrive.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE, & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience preferred.

SALARY & BENEFITS

This is a part-time position at 10 hours per week. The salary for this position is $15 per hour.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.