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Registrar

Newport Restoration Foundation
Newport, RI Full Time
POSTED ON 7/24/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/21/2026

Job Title: Registrar

Classification: Full-time (Exempt)

Reports to: Director of Engagement

Salary: 60,000 to 65,000

Department: Collections & Archives

Job Summary

The Registrar plays an integral role in the stewardship of the Newport Restoration Foundation collections, including preservation, conservation, research, documentation, and accessibility to the public. This position oversees implementation of collection management policies while also supporting exhibitions and installations across NRF sites. Must live in the area or in Massachusetts or Connecticut. This work is mostly done on site.

Specific Responsibilities:

Collection Oversight (75%)

· In collaboration with Director of Engagement and other Collections & Archives Department staff, ensure Collection management policies and procedures are up-to-date, follow best practices, and align with Departmental and organization-wide goals

· Develop and maintain accurate and up-to-date catalog and inventory records for NRF Collections (as defined by the Collection policy)

· Accession collection objects and research objects/works to add to NRF collections in alignment with NRF’s mission.

· Ensures the proper housing and storage of collections as well as the organization and cleanliness of Collections storage and work areas.

· Processes loan requests in accordance with loan policies and ensures the safe transport of loans

· Handles insurance requirements for the collections.

· Oversees the Integrated Pest Management task force and ensures IPM practices are current and follow sustainable & eco-friendly goals of the organization.

· Ensures safety protocols for handling collections & collections work spaces

· Oversees the monitoring of the environment in public spaces and in Collections storage

· Serve on the NRF Filing Taskforce to create and implement records standards, policies, and best practices

  • Oversee daily, weekly, and annual routines for care of museum spaces, including the deep cleaning in the off season Manage the Collections database; work with the Archivist & Digital Collections Manager to facilitate access to the database for internal research use and for NRF website integration.
  • Oversee annual collections inventory & auditServes on Collections Committee; advises Board and Committee on accessioning/deaccessioning of Collections

Exhibition & Collections Access Support (25%)

· Manage the logistics of all NRF Exhibitions and installations/installations at sites including Rough Point Museum and grounds, the Vernon House, and other sites

o Oversee related contractors/vendors/artists/guest curators/collaborative partners.

o Oversee condition assessments, loan agreements, and other installation planning.

· Plan for the updated lighting and exhibition displays (including mannequins), following the larger NRF Exhibition Plan and collaborating with staff from the Preservation Department and outside contractors.

· Research collections objects to add to institutional records and to inform NRF’s storytelling work (exhibitions, digital content, etc.)

· Serve as resource for stakeholders, including NRF staff and members of the public.

· Work with the Visitor Experience, Development, and Communications Departments on public programs, special events, and content to further promote the Exhibitions and Collections work of the or680ganization.

· Supervise additional staff and/or interns and providing guidance on the proper handling of objects, oversight of research projects, carrying out collections inventory, and related tasks

Qualifications:

· Master’s degree in art history, public history, American studies, museum studies or related fields or 5 years of progressive experience in collections management

· 3 years’ experience in general collections work and exhibition management

· Requires a thorough knowledge of collections management practices, policies and procedures, as well as understanding of digital imaging, copyright management, archival file management, and museum registrar methods, as well as professional museum standards.

· Skilled in database management; knowledge of the CMS programs like Collectors Systems preferred

· A thorough understanding of legal and ethical issues related to collection management, including issues of repatriation, copyright laws, and cultural heritage regulations.

· Detail-oriented, organized, and has the demonstrated ability to work independently.

· Demonstrated research skills—including research related to objects

· Excellent communications skills; can communicate effectively with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences (colleagues and other stakeholders)

· A team player who is capable of collaborating across NRF departments

· Physical requirements include the ability to lift and carry at least 40 lbs and climb and work from a high ladder and fine motor skills to work with delicate objects

· Must possess a valid driver’s license

Pay: $60,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

Salary : $60,000 - $65,000

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