Registrar for Sciences

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is seeking to hire a Museum Technician II for The Illinois State Museum.  This position is responsible for accessioning objects into the applicable collection; cataloging and entering data into the electronic collections database; maintaining digital and hard copy files; writing descriptions and reports; preparing items for long-term storage; assisting with research of objects in support of educational programming or exhibits; monitoring all outgoing loans; and assisting with installation and de-installation of exhibits at the ISM or ISM-affiliated sites as needed. Performs duties mostly independently, while under the supervision of the Director of Collections & Research (Museum Section Head 3). The Illinois State Museum's mission of collecting, studying, and interpreting objects that represent the natural history, anthropology, and art of Illinois is fulfilled. It provides state-of-the-art space to care for and study collections, as well as laboratories and special program spaces for Museum scientists, artists, and educators.  We welcome interested applicants who would like to be part of this team to apply today.

Essential Functions

• Manage and maintain the Anthropology and Natural History collections of specimens, objects, artifacts, and associated data.
• Provide professional technical support to senior administrative staff and research curators for the Anthropology and Natural History sections in the following areas as required or requested:
• Facilitate access to collections as requested by researchers, scholars, students, depositors, or other qualified requestors in alignment with ISM collection access policies.      
• As required, function as the Museum Registrar, responsible for multi-section curated collection information and records management (which includes ISM digital databases and hard-copy files).
• Implement Best Practices of registration and collections care.
• Provide support for educational programming and exhibits at the ISM and ISM-affiliated sites.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the Position Overview.                                                                                    

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of B.A. or B.S. (M.A. or M.S. Preferred) in a science-related discipline, museum studies, collections management, or other position-related field.
• 5 years of collection management, curatorial or research experience in a museum, university, cultural center, or similar organization.

Preferred Qualifications

• Educational coursework demonstrating interest and knowledge of Illinois or Midwestern United States cultural or natural history.
• Working Knowledge level of experience with development and management of research collections and relational databases. (Microsoft Access software experience Preferred.) Working Knowledge is defined as requiring some previous acquisition of knowledge and training and general work experience in the area of responsibility.
• Working Knowledge level of Microsoft 365 or Microsoft Office Suite Software with proficiency in word processing, database management, and spreadsheet data management. Working Knowledge is defined as requiring some previous acquisition of knowledge and training and general work experience in the area of responsibility.

Conditions of Employment

NOTE:  Applicants must possess the ability to meet ALL the following conditions of employment with or without reasonable accommodation to be considered for this position:

1. Ability to pass background check

2. Must have a valid driver’s license.

3. Have ability to travel locally, regionally, or statewide

4. Must be able to lift and carry up to 25lbs.

5. Occasionally ascends/descends a ladder to retrieve, relocate, or return collection storage boxes from/to shelving.

6. Physical abilities to handle delicate and possibly heavy artifacts.

The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description

Agency and Division Statement

DNR Agency Statement

Charged with preserving, protecting, and promoting Illinois’ natural resources, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) employees oversee water, wildlife, wetlands and oil wells, parks, historic sites – and everything in between. Employment opportunities vary greatly, often providing employees the chance to work indoors and out in a dynamic yet relaxed environment. Working for the State of Illinois, IDNR employees receive excellent benefits, including health, vision and dental insurance; a retirement plan and deferred compensation options; state holidays and other time off; as well as pre-tax benefit programs; flexible/remote work schedules may be available for certain positions.

Division Statement: The State Museum (ISM) is a division of IDNR.  The mission of ISM (accredited by the American Alliance of Museums) is to promote discovery, lifelong learning, and stewardship of the natural and cultural heritage of Illinois.  It strives to integrate its original research and diverse collections to advance knowledge and create thought-provoking exhibitions and educational programs and resources. The Illinois State Museum is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that is mindful of community stories and lived experiences.