Curatorial Assistant in Ornithology and Mammalogy

Published: February 13, 2018    Collections Assistant, Internships, Jobs

Expired

The California Academy of Sciences is hiring a part-time (16-24 hrs/week) Curatorial Assistant in Ornithology and Mammalogy. The application deadline is March 20, 2018.

POSITION SUMMARY:
Under supervision of the Collection Manager or more senior Curatorial Assistants in Ornithology and Mammalogy (O&M), performs duties related to specimen preparation, cataloging and archiving specimens, processing loans, collection maintenance and organization; assists in implementation of ongoing programs and provides departmental support as assigned. Assigned responsibilities for this position are diverse and range from average to difficult in nature and require advanced knowledge or experience.

The California Academy of Sciences welcomes people of all backgrounds, identities, and beliefs to join us in achieving our mission to explore, explain, and sustain life on Earth. We place diversity, equity, and inclusion at the heart of our recruiting efforts and strive to build a culture centered on mutual respect, equal treatment, and the opportunity to succeed.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assist in the organization and maintenance of departmental collection and its files, specimen preparation, updating and organization of current collection, and accession of new specimens
  • Process specimens, including sorting, preparing, identification, cataloging, labeling and integration into the collection of existing or incoming material
  • Perform all aspects of bird and mammal specimen preparation such as preparing study skins, cleaning skulls and skeletons using maceration and Dermestid beetles, and preserving specimens in fluid
  • Assist with processing of collection loans; may involve shipping, receiving, and preparation of specimens loaned; may involve correspondence and maintenance of accurate records of loans and exchanges; fumigation of returning loans before reintegration into the collection
  • Assist visitors, visiting researchers, and the public
  • Give departmental tours and public demonstrations in the Project Lab, answer inquiries as assigned
  • Supervise and train students and volunteers, including during Nightlife events on Thursday nights
  • Supply technical data, specimens and design input for displays to CAS departments and other institutions and groups as required
  • Assist curators and/or the collection manager in research activities; may involve assistance in the field
  • Purchase materials for department
  • Special collection and departmental or Academy duties and projects as assigned (e.g. Integrated Pest Management)
  • Follow all Academy safety regulations
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biology or equivalent combination of education and experience required
  • Relevant technical experience required, including experience preparing bird and mammal study skins, skeletons, and fluid-preserved specimens

For complete details, and to apply: http://calacademy.snaphire.com/jobdetails?ajid=pXpX8