About this role
Temporary Collections Assistant - Ornithology
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, founded in 1920, is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. For more than a century, the Museum has inspired visitors to connect with the wonders of science and nature. Today, we continue that legacy—and remain committed to sharing our resources to promote a healthy future for both humans and the planet.
As Ohio’s largest natural history museum, we use our vast collections and state-of-the-art facilities to contribute to scientific understanding worldwide. Our scientists conduct research across a variety of disciplines, making groundbreaking discoveries about early human ancestors, ancient Ohio, animal and plant life around the world, and more. We steward more than 12,500 acres of wild habitats through our Natural Areas Program, working to protect the environment of northern Ohio and the diverse species that call it home.
The Museum is seeking a dedicated professional to join our Collections team.
Job Summary
The Collections Assistant will work in collaboration with the collections management staff to steward the Ornithology collection. The Collections Assistant will focus on moving study skins, eggs, and nests from their existing location into a new, on-site storage facility, as well as updating associated physical and digital records. This is a temporary, donor-funded position expected to last between 3-6 months.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct tasks associated with collections management, including specimen handling, rehousing, labeling, sorting, digitization, and imaging.
- Maintain accurate reports on the condition of items and update database records.
- Carefully handle and monitor collections to ensure their safety and mitigate damage.
- Order supplies and equipment as needed.
- Adhere to the CMNH Manual of Research and Collections Policies.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, Biology, Museum Studies, or related field and 1 year of demonstrable experience working in museum collections; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Excellent attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and successfully meet project deadlines and goals.
- Strong knowledge of collections management methods, best practices, and database management.
- Familiarity with collections management systems and/or relational databases (EMu preferred).
- Ability to handle collection objects carefully and safely to not cause damage.
- Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to react quickly to emergency situations when necessary.
Working Conditions
This position includes working indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. May require sitting, walking, or standing for prolonged periods of time. Must be able to lift 50 lbs., move large carts and specimens, and climb ladders with or without reasonable accommodations.
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, ADA EMPLOYER, and a SUBSTANCE-FREE WORKPLACE
Other facts
About Cleveland Museum of Natural History
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History (CMNH), founded in 1920, is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. Considered one of the finest institutions of its kind in North America, the Museum offers an incredible visitor experience, attracting roughly 275,000 visitors a year. There are more than 140 public education programs and over 80,000 students served annually. The Museum employs about 160 people.
Building on its strong foundation of excellence in education and research, the Museum is poised to transform itself. The Museum will invite and engage a broader audience in the exploration of science and the natural world by revolutionizing the way it presents natural history. The Museum has launched a capital campaign to support a dramatic renovation and expansion of its facilities and exhibits. This ambitious plan will position the Museum to play a leading role in regional and national efforts to improve science education and increase scientific literacy.
What you'll do
- The Collections Assistant will collaborate with the collections management staff to steward the Ornithology collection, focusing on moving specimens to a new storage facility and updating records. Essential tasks include specimen handling, rehousing, labeling, and maintaining accurate reports.
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