Collections Move Technician - Natural Science (Botany)

MPM is seeking 1 temporary, part-time Collections Move Technician to support the museum’s goal of moving its 4 million object collection to a new building.  This technician will operate within the museum’s Natural Science department, with their main area of work being in the Herbarium, however, some work may be done in the Geology and Zoology collections.  This technician will work collaboratively under the supervision of the museum’s Collections Move Project Associate.  Initial work will focus on packing specimens for transport and eventually unpacking into new storage. In addition to these tasks, future projects may include work with fluid-preserved collections and other dry, zoological collections, paleontological and mineral collections, and taxidermy specimens. 

While most of the work will be done at MPM, some work may be done at an offsite storage location or at the site of the new museum.  

This position will require consistent standing, bending, and lifting throughout the day and tasks that require repetitive movements for long periods of time.  

The schedule for the position is Monday through Thursday from 8:30 – 3:30, and the position will run for approximately 1 year with the possibility for extension.  To perform this job successfully, ideal candidates will be expected to complete the following duties:  

• Safely handle and manipulate museum specimens  
• Read and transcribe identifying numbers from specimen labels, catalog books, and catalog cards  
• Swiftly generate digital records from transcribed data into a spreadsheet  
• Create, tie, and otherwise attach barcodes to museum specimens  
• Photograph specimens and drawers of specimens as required  
• Critically assess specimen stability and material makeup, pre-packing  
• Pack and unpack various types of specimens safely and securely  
• Fabricate basic packing supports out of archival materials  
• Construct crates and other large scale packing material  
• Operate a standard pallet jack to move packed crates  
• Perform basic operations within Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft products  
• Other move-related collections duties as assigned  

Education and/or Experience:  

• A documented history (which can include undergraduate or graduate experience) in natural science coursework, or commensurate experience within the natural sciences, is required. 
• Specific work with an herbarium or botanical collections is preferred. 
• The ideal candidate will have previous experience with plant taxonomy and/or knowledge of plant families and genera.  

Competencies: 

• Comfortable undertaking fine dexterity work and handling delicate materials  
• Ability to complete repetitive tasks consistently, while maintaining accuracy, safety, and integrity 
• Detail oriented, with strong problem-solving skills  
• Ability to wear PPE appropriate to the tasks assigned  
• Strongly developed 3D-spatial reasoning skills  
• Capable of working independently and as part of a team  
• The ability to use a ladder, and spend much of the day standing, bending, and lifting  
• Familiarity with Microsoft products, with specific experience in Excel  
• Proficient typing skills 

Benefits:

• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off Package
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
• Free Museum Membership
• Museum Shop, Food, & Beverage Discounts
• Parking Subsidy/Discounted Bus Pass

The Milwaukee Public Museum (MPM) is a natural and human history museum located in downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The museum is among the oldest in the United States, with a history dating back to the 1850’s. We offer great career opportunities for people with all levels of training, experience, and education. We are a composition of diverse and talented staff working together as a team to offer our visitors the best possible immersive experience in learning and enjoyment.

A career with the Milwaukee Public Museum allows you to connect your skills and abilities in a rewarding position with a non-profit organization doing good work in our community. MPM provides an unlimited opportunity to gain knowledge about our world, as you connect with visitors, donors, innovative staff members, curious students, interns and volunteers in your day-to-day-work. See what MPM has to offer and consider applying today!

The Milwaukee Public Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.

Salary : $15