NAGPRA Collections Assistant

The Sam Noble Museum Archaeology Department seeks a full-time Collections Assistant to inventory, catalog, digitize, and process archaeological collections for repatriation in compliance with NAGPRA (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act). This includes working with sensitive materials, including the remains of Native American ancestors and funerary objects. In addition, the Collections Assistant will provide general support to the Archaeology Collections Manager/NAGPRA Coordinator and Curator of Archaeology.

Duties

• Inventorying and rehousing archaeological collections
• Working with sensitive NAGPRA collections; participating in consultations
• Creating catalog records in a database management system for archaeological collections and associated documentation
• Assisting with project coordination
• Provides care of the collections, date and records management
• Identifies, prepares, tags and catalogs specimens for new and existing collections
• Meets with visitors to the collection, filling patron requests remotely and in person and giving tours to the public
• Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

Required Education:  Bachelors Degree

Equivalency/Substitution:  Will accept 48 months of museum-related work experience in lieu of the Bachelor's degree.

Skills:

• Strong communication (verbal and written) and organizational skills are required.
• Must be detail-oriented to maintain the accuracy of collections data and information.
• Must be able to handle small items with extreme care.
• Must be able to read and understand written or printed materials, and perform simple record-keeping operations requiring data entry, logging, or filing.
• Must have proficiency with MS Office software and experience working with databases.
• Must be willing to work collaboratively and respectfully with tribal representatives and organizations.
• Must demonstrate a knowledge of acceptable museum practices and standards for collection care, collection management, documentation, conservation, and registration methods.

Certifications:

• None

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Must have the ability to lift 35lbs
• Climb ladders
• Sitting for long periods
• Engage in repetitive motions, write/print legibly
• Be able to handle small items with extreme care
• Must be capable of working independently, but also as a part of a team
• Must use established occupational health and safety practices

Departmental Preferences:

• Bachelor's degree in Anthropology with an emphasis on archaeology or physical anthropology. Archaeological experience in the field, museum, or lab setting.
• Museum experience, especially working with archaeological collections.
• Working knowledge of NAGPRA legislation and an interest in deepening this knowledge.
• General knowledge of the pre-contact and historical archaeology of the Plains or Southeast US.

Supervision:

• Student collections assistants, part-time collections assistants, and volunteers.

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing .

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.