Collections Intern

Collections Intern 

Department: Collections 

Reports to: Registrar 

Basic Purpose: Responsible for supporting the digitization of the Holland Museum archives and collection, including the preparation of object documentation and photographs and the transfer of all collection data into an online database. 

Responsibilities and Accountabilities 

• Assist in on-going collections database development and management, including creating and managing object records, drafting object descriptions, uploading object photographs and scans, recording storage locations, cataloging, unifying lexicon, accessioning, and inventory. The intern will pick a category from a selection of topics (i.e., Holland Chorale, stamps, models) not yet featured on our public database.
• Assist in processing and documenting accessions, loans, and deaccessions in accordance with museum best practice. Learn how to handle and digitize artifacts and archival materials.
• Perform historic research as needed, using sources from archival documents, Internet databases, etc.
• Greet and interact with museum visitors in an open, friendly manner.
• Participate in the Holland Museum Summer Intern Council. The Council will be guided by the Museum staff to design, research, and install an exhibition that will develop leadership and communication skills. Responsibilities include:
  • Look for opportunities to address issues that require cross functional skills, creative problem solving, relationship building, and an understanding of the greater organizational strategy of the Museum.
  • Meet with other interns over the course of the summer to develop sub teams and plans to address the project they have chosen.
  • Commit to roughly 5 hours of work for the Council per week.
  • The Intern Council will report back to the museum staff to present results of the exhibition at the end of the summer.

Education and Experience: High school diploma or equivalent required. Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program, or a recent graduate with a BA/BS in a related field such as museum studies, public history, information science/archives, or history. Demonstrated experience handling artifacts, working with historic collections in a museum setting, creating artifacts records in a computer database, and performing historic research is preferred.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• A self-starter with the ability to work independently and prioritize tasks.
• Reliable, with the ability to follow tasks through to completion and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively and display excellent professional judgment in a collaborative environment.
• Knowledge of and commitment to museum best practices as established by the American Alliance of Museums, including best practices for collection stewardship and digital preservation.
• Must have exceptional customer service skills, with the ability to work with a diverse public and a diverse workforce.
• Ability to perform physical tasks (lift 30 lbs.) with physical mobility and ability to climb stairs.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency, including an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Suite.
• Demonstrated understanding of image capture equipment, including cameras, lighting, and digital scanners.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Work Schedule: Collection interns must work 20 hours per week for 10 weeks, June-August. The Intern Council will meet weekly for two hours on Wednesdays. This is an on-site internship. 

Compensation: A $1000 stipend will be paid upon successful completion of the internship. Housing is not included as part of this internship. 

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion: The Holland Museum is committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We will continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where staff, board, and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds. 

The Holland Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, family responsibilities, national origin, or veteran status, or any other protected categories under applicable law. We encourage a diverse pool of candidates to apply. At the Holland Museum, you can bring your whole self to work. 

To Apply: Submit cover letter, resume and the names and contact information for three professional references to Loren Stevens, Curator of Learning & Community Engagement, loren@hollandmusem.org by March 15, 2025.