Job Title: Collections Assistant (Project-Based / Part-Time)

Edmond History Museum
Pay Rate: $10.50/hour
Schedule: Flexible, part-time; hours may be worked intermittently
Estimated Project Length: Approximately 47 hours
Supervision: Education Manager and Museum Curator

Position Summary

The Edmond History Museum is seeking a Collections Assistant to support short-term, project-based collections work related to educational artifacts and traveling teaching trunks. This position is ideal for college students or recent graduates interested in museum collections, public history, or collections care who are looking for hands-on experience in artifact handling and preventive conservation.

The Collections Assistant will assist with preparing historic objects for safe storage, transport, and repeated educational use, working under the guidance of the Education Manager and Curator.

Current Project Focus

The primary project for this position involves assisting with the preparation of teaching trunks containing historic and educational artifacts. These objects require custom protective supports because they travel to schools and programs and are handled frequently. The Collections Assistant will help create safe, durable storage solutions that balance preservation with hands-on use.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with handling, boxing, and rehousing artifacts used in educational programs
• Create custom-fitted archival foam supports using a foam carving knife or similar tools
• Prepare artifacts for travel and repeated handling while following museum best practices
• Apply museum-safe labeling methods appropriate for hands-on educational objects
• Photograph artifacts for documentation and collections records
• Assist with basic accessioning, cataloging, and collections documentation
• Follow established guidelines for preventive conservation and artifact care

Required Qualifications

• Experience or coursework related to museum collections, artifact handling, or collections storage
• Comfort working with hands-on tools to create custom storage supports
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work carefully with historic objects
• Ability to work independently while following guidance from museum staff

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience handling and boxing museum artifacts
• Familiarity with archival materials and preservation-friendly storage methods
• Experience with educational or traveling collections
• Background in Museum Studies, Public History, History, Anthropology, or related field

What This Position Offers

• Practical, hands-on experience with real museum artifacts
• Skill development in artifact rehousing, foam carving, and preventive conservation
• Flexible scheduling suitable for students
• Professional mentorship from museum education and curatorial staff/ volunteers

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
• Ability to safely lift and move small to medium-sized artifacts and storage materials

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining relevant experience or coursework to:

Lorie Prater : LPrater@EdmondHistory.org

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Volunteering

We are always looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to help us make a difference in our community. Volunteering with us is a great way to contribute your time and skills to support our mission.

Why Volunteer with Us?

• Gain valuable experience and skills
• Meet new people and be part of a friendly community
• Make a positive impact
• Flexible hours to fit your schedule

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact our volunteer services manager, Michelle at MHayes@edmondhistory.org or call 405-340-0078.

Thank you for your interest in supporting our work!