Curatorial Assistant
Artifact Care and Maintenance:
- Cleaning and maintaining artifacts on display according to established schedules.
- Ensuring the cleanliness and safety of heritage buildings to create a welcoming environment.
- Assisting with minor repairs and upkeep of Heritage Village buildings under supervision to support preservation efforts.
- Reporting concerns related to the condition or safety of artifacts and exhibit areas.
Artifact Documentation and Management:
- Accurately documenting and cataloguing artifacts within the museum’s permanent collection.
- Following established museum guidelines and best practices for preservation and data entry.
- Using the PastPerfect software system for digital recordkeeping and artifact tracking.
- Supporting inventory reviews and assisting with artifact movement between storage and display areas.
Supporting Curatorial Activities:
- Assisting the curator with artifact handling, deaccessioning, and exhibit rotation.
- Helping to set up, clean, and dismantle exhibits as required.
- Ensuring all collections work adheres to museum standards of care and documentation.
Storage Area Duties:
- Transferring artifacts between storage spaces responsibly and efficiently.
- Maintaining the organization and condition of collection storage areas.
- Identifying and reporting any environmental or storage issues that may impact preservation.
Education-Based Programs and Environmental Initiatives:
- Assisting with the preparation of artifacts for education-based displays, public programming, and research projects.
- Conducting artifact-related research to support interpretive panels and educational materials.
- Supporting the Forest Festival educational stations by preparing, researching, and presenting artifact-based content that highlights environmental awareness, conservation practices, and the historical relationship between people and nature.
Responsibilities:
Artifact Care and Maintenance:
- Ensuring artifacts and exhibit spaces are maintained in clean and safe condition.
- Following handling and cleaning protocols to preserve historical integrity.
- Supporting minor maintenance and repairs under supervision to contribute to building preservation.
Artifact Documentation and Management:
- Maintaining accurate and up-to-date digital records for artifacts in the collection.
- Assisting with cataloguing, numbering, photographing, and condition reporting using PastPerfect.
- Following proper archival and preservation procedures in all collection-related tasks.
Supporting Curatorial Activities:
- Working with the curator to ensure exhibit and storage transitions are conducted safely.
- Providing assistance during exhibit installations and rotations.
- Collaborating with staff to uphold museum standards of documentation and artifact care.
Storage Area Duties:
- Maintaining the order, cleanliness, and environmental stability of storage spaces.
- Assisting with artifact placement and labeling as directed.
- Identifying areas where improvements to storage conditions are needed.
Education-Based Programs and Environmental Initiatives:
- Assisting with the development and presentation of educational materials related to museum collections.
- Contributing to the Forest Festival by preparing historical displays that emphasize conservation, sustainable practices, and traditional trades connected to the environment.
- Conducting research and creating interpretive materials that help visitors understand the environmental and historical context of artifacts.
Other Skills:
- Physical and Manual Dexterity, Research Skill, Care of Museum Collections, Organizational Skill
Must be able to meet all the criteria of Canada Summer Jobs:
· Are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident or have refugee status in Canada (non-Canadians holding temporary work visas or awaiting permanent resident status are not eligible).
· Are legally entitled to work in Canada (have a valid social insurance number).
· Are between 16 and 30 years of age inclusively at the start of employment; and
Essex County, nestled at the southernmost tip of Ontario, stands as a remarkable region with its thriving food tourism industry and a captivating array of historical landmarks. Delve into history at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum or immerse yourself in artistic wonders at the Windsor Art Gallery. Museums like Museum Windsor’s Chimczuk, Baby House and the Windsor Aviation Museum add depth to the cultural experience, while Point Pelee island provides a serene escape. The region comes alive with festivals, car shows, folk festivals, fairs, and exciting bike tours. Nature enthusiasts can relish outdoor trails and indulge in an abundance of other engaging activities that Essex County offers.
Candidates with a disability, aboriginal youth, visible minorities, and new Canadians are encouraged to apply for employment with the CTMHV and will be given the same consideration as all other candidates. The CTMHV does not discriminate against any candidates and all applicants will be treated with respect and equal consideration.
Orientation and Health and Safety Training will be provided to each successful candidate.
Come be a part of our dedicated team, contribute to preserving history, and gain hands-on experience in the museum sector at The Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village!
This position is 8 weeks in July- August.
Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Pay: $17.80 per hour
Application question(s):
- Are you a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident or have refugee status in Canada
- Are you legally entitled to work in Canada (have a valid social insurance number).
- Are you between 16 and 30 years of age inclusively at the start of employment
- Are you a high school, college, CEGEP, or university student
Work Location: In person
