Key responsibilities and scope
The Archaeology Collection Officer, First Nations is responsible for the engagement, interpretation, research, tracking, logistics, storage and housing, and handling aspects of the Australian Museum’s First Nations Archaeology Collections which are located across several AM sites.
The role utilises collections management systems to care for collections, including reviewing and updating data, tracking, object photography and conditions reporting. The Archaeology Collection Officer will assist in the movement of objects to facilitate the reproduction of images of collection items for internal or external purposes, and provide information/drafting assistance for attributions, copyright and commercial arrangements. The role complements the work of other staff working on registration and digitisation across the First Nations Collections through standardising KE EMu records as part of the overarching Collections Enhancement Project underway throughout the AM’s Cultural Collections, for the purposes of best practice assets management and governance.
This role also facilitates appropriate access for contractors and if applicable interns/volunteers (as appropriate and approved by the Manager, First Nations Collections & Engagement) to the First Nations Archaeology Collections and related laboratories on a regular basis (may include early starts), visits from First Nations community members and approved external stakeholders seeking to access the First Nations Archaeology Collections.
Required experience and skills
We are looking for a professional who has:
- Appropriate approved tertiary qualifications in a relevant subject area, or relevant equivalent professional practice and research experience.
- Experience regarding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and cultural practices, including understanding and applying Aboriginal cultural heritage management and cultural protocols.
- Proven ability to develop and care for cultural collections of high quality, including the ability to recognise the quality of objects, their conditions, provenance, and authenticity.
- Holds a current NSW Driver’s Licence. The role holder must be prepared to travel between the AM’s various sites which hold its collections, and to external stakeholders as needed to support the work of the First Nations Collections team.
Knowledge & Experience
- Demonstrated experience in contemporary collection management practices, including the use of databases such as KE EMu.
- Experience in the professional handling, packing, transport, and storage of cultural objects.
- Application of culturally appropriate collection practices, cultural awareness, and terminology in order to perform in processes that are culturally aware and appropriate. Capacity to embed ICIP into work practice.
- Proven record in community consultation, especially with First Nations and Pasifika communities.
Please see the Role Description for more details.
Why work with us
The Australian Museum is truly a great place to work. We aim to be a leading voice for the richness of life, the Earth and culture in Australia and the Pacific. We commit to transform the conversation around climate change, the environment and wildlife conservation; be a strong advocate for First Nations’ culture; and continue to develop world-leading science, collections, exhibitions and education programs.
Recent staff survey results show that our staff are very happy with their workplace with 76% satisfied with their job and 89% of staff say that people are treated with respect.
The Museum is located on the homelands of the Gadigal people and acknowledges and pays respect to the Gadigal people as the custodians of the land, sky and waterways, paying respect to Elders past and present.
Check out our current exhibitions and events here.
What we offer
Besides working together with other like-minded people passionate about the Earth, you will have access to:
- Discounts to Museum café and shop
- Wellbeing programs
- Career development and opportunities across the NSW Public Service.
For more information or to apply visit: JobsNSW.
