Job Description

Job Title:

Collections and Archives Supervisor

Reports to:

CAMAL Chief Heritage Officer

Compensation:

$48,000.00 annual salary, health benefits package, 15 days holiday with additional 5 paid days off during the annual year-end closure.

Hours of work:

Full-time, permanent, 35 hours per week.

The Cranbrook History Centre

is a landmark site located in Cranbrook BC. We preserve and display internationally recognized paleontology specimens, a nationally designated railcar collection, and serve as a repository for the history of Cranbrook and the East Kootenay region for all to explore and discover. We would like to acknowledge that the Cranbrook History Centre is located on the traditional, ancestral and present Ktunaxa homeland and extend our gratitude for the opportunity to live and learn in respect and appreciation.

The museum is supported by the Cranbrook Archives, Museum and Landmark Society and its Executive Management Team which provides strategic direction, development and funding to achieve the museum's mission. Our team values a supportive and collaborative work culture that is respectful, challenging and promotes diversity and creativity.

Position Summary:

The Collections and Archives Supervisor plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing British Columbia's captivating history at the Cranbrook History Centre Working closely with the Chief Heritage Officer and dedicated volunteers, the Supervisor manages a diverse collection of artifacts and archives, develops engaging exhibits, and contributes to the conservation of unique historic railcars. The Cranbrook History Centre seeks a passionate and innovative individual to connect with diverse audiences, both online and on-site, and interpret the stories of the East Kootenay.

Position Duties and Responsibilities:

Develop and implement best practices for the care, documentation, and preservation of the Society's collection housed at the Museum, adhering to Canadian standards. Conduct condition assessments and establish conservation priorities for heritage buildings, historic railcars, artifacts, and archival materials, including the integrated pest management program. Manage the collection database, ensuring accuracy, compliance with professional standards, and proper handling of donations, appraisals, storage, and descriptions. Provide researchers, educators, and the public with access to archival collections, ensuring proper handling and security Develop strategies to digitize archival materials and increase online accessibility. Lead collection inventories and condition reporting projects. Provide other department staff training in artifact handling and working in historic buildings. Contribute to the development of innovative exhibits and programs, integrating digital technologies and diverse storytelling to showcase the collection and enhance the visitor experience. Ensure exhibitions meet accessibility and inclusivity standards, engaging diverse audiences. Integrate digital technologies and storytelling techniques to enhance the visitor experience where appropriate. Ensure all exhibits, historic railcars, buildings and artifacts on display are kept clean. Support the Programs Department in organizing public programs, workshops, education collection, and events highlighting the collections and archives as an educational resource. Support reconciliation efforts by ensuring diverse voices and histories are represented in collections and exhibits. Develop and maintain relationships with Indigenous communities to ensure proper representation and care of their cultural heritage, and support the organization's commitment to repatriation and decolonization. Recruit, train, and supervise collections and archives staff and volunteers, ensuring on accurate collections and archival projects. As related to the job description, other duties as assigned.

Knowledge and Experience

Post-secondary diploma or degree in a relevant field such as Conservation, Museum Studies, Archival Studies, Heritage Resource Management AND/OR a combination of education and experience in managing collections and archives in a museum or related organization. A minimum of three (3) years working with historic collections and archives. An understanding of Indigenous relations in this region; additionally, familiarity with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the relevant Calls to Action for Museums is an asset. This knowledge can be through education, lived or worked experience. Knowledge of the Canadian Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada. Experience implementing the Rules for Archival Description and current archival preservation methods. Conservation skills and background an asset.

Abilities and Skills

Demonstrated research, exhibit design and project management skills. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral. Proven ability to work independently, collaboratively, and meet deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, database management systems (e.g., PastPerfect), and website content management (e.g., WordPress). Highly organized. Ability to conduct multi-level research and communicate research to the public effectively. Some experience writing and managing grants an asset. A commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

We are looking for these personal qualities:

Initiative: We need someone who has ideas as well as someone who can come up with creative solutions! Reliability: We must be able to count on you to ensure the success of our programs. Judgement: Things evolve rapidly, being able to make decisions with discernment is an essential quality to being successful in this position Detail Oriented: the details matter!
Cranbrook is a town with a diverse and international community. The Cranbrook History Centre strives to reflect this in our work and our team. We encourage applicants who identify as LGBTQ2S+, Person with Disabilities, Indigenous, and visible minorities to apply. The Cranbrook History Centre is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise if you require accommodation.

How to Apply

In the spirit of reconciliation, we are committed to increasing Indigenous representation throughout the organization and encourage applicants to self-identify as Indigenous within cover letters and/or resume.

Please send your resume and cover letter as a PDF to curator@cranbrookhistorycentre.com. Subject line: first name, last name, job title. Ex: Jane Doe, Collections and Archives Supervisor. The selection process will remain open until the position is filled.

We appreciate all applications; however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted. A clean criminal record check and vulnerable sector police check will be required before employment

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $48,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental care Extended health care Flexible schedule On-site parking Paid time off Vision care
Flexible language requirement:

French not required
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person