San Diego Natural History Museum seeks a full-time professional for the position of Collections Manager for the Department of Herpetology. The collection contains over 76,000 catalogued specimens dating back to 1891 including the largest rattlesnake collection in the world. Our holdings mostly come from southern California and Baja California, but also contain specimens that span the globe.
Candidates should have a strong background in herpetology, taxonomy, museum studies, geography, and data management. While traditional collection management experience is necessary, the position also expects candidates to be involved in applied sciences, such as field biology, conservation, collection digitization, diversity analysis using morphological and/or genomic data, or distribution modeling and mapping. Department activities include the Amphibian and Reptile Atlas of Peninsular California, the conservation of the California Red-legged Frog, expeditions and rapid assessment surveys, consulting services, and No Specimen Left Behind.
Areas of responsibilities include:
- Maintenance, improvement, and use of the amphibian and reptile collection.
- Specimen preparation: whole-body and tissue preservation.
- Computer entry, editing, and maintenance of department databases.
- Supervision of science volunteers and apprentices.
- Applied science activities to include one or more of the department’s roles in field biology, conservation, collection digitization, diversity analysis, and distribution modeling.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of collections care and amphibian and reptile taxonomy.
- Skills in project management with an attention to detail and accuracy.
- Demonstrated experience in herpetology.
- Proficiency in relevant computer programs (e.g, Specify 6 or 7, ArcGIS 10) or demonstrated ability to learn applications based on proficiency in similar programs.
- Professional demeanor, reliable, punctual, and hardworking.
- Ability to learn processes, procedures, and information quickly.
- A minimum degree of M.A/M.S. in the life sciences or museum studies.
In compliance with the San Diego Natural History Museum’s mandatory vaccination policy, the Museum requires proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Accommodations based on medical and religious exemptions will be considered.
Weekend and some evening availability is sometimes required. While the majority of work falls within regular business hours, field projects often extend through weekend and evening hours.
This is a full-time, regular position with benefits such as health insurance, vacation, 15 paid holidays, free admission into all of Balboa Park’s museums as well as free admission to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.
Salary for this position is $29.17/hour ($60,673.60 annually).
Please email a cover letter and curriculum vitae to bhollingsworth@sdnhm.org. No phone calls or drop-ins please. Applications due on or before November 15, 2022.