A museum is a place where you can see material evidence about humankind and its past and present. Unlike libraries, which contain books, museums house unique, tangible evidence that can be studied. The items on display communicate directly to the viewer. This means that the museum is a valuable resource that contributes to a society’s culture.
The concept of a museum stretches back as far as the Paleolithic period, when people began to collect and investigate their surroundings and share their discoveries. Evidence of early museums can be found in Paleolithic burials, including the site of Larsa, Mesopotamia. In the 18th century, the concept of a museum took hold across Europe, with cities like Paris and London embracing it as a source of national pride.
The Director is a crucial member of the senior management team of the Museum. They oversee two full-time employees and are responsible for the development of the Museum’s policies and procedures. They also monitor the Museum’s compensation and benefit programs and oversee employee-focused programs and initiatives. As part of the Senior Development Officer, they work with the Senior Director of Culture and Belonging to ensure that the museum’s processes and policies support the Museum’s initiatives.
A conservator is one of the most important employees in the museum, with duties centered around the collection. Conservators must maintain detailed records of their work and create a stable environment for their objects. Most museums do not have a full-time conservator on staff, but there are entry-level opportunities for this position. Museum workers usually need at least a bachelor’s degree and several years of related experience in the field. They also need to be knowledgeable about the field they work in, such as history, anthropology, or archaeology.
A museum educator bridges the gap between the public and the exhibits. The museum exhibits and videos are designed to impart information, but only a small percentage of visitors will spend time reading every panel or watching every video. An effective museum education program can make the difference between a chaotic free-time experience and a lasting educational experience.
Job titles in historical museums vary from curator to researcher to development officer, but all require at least a bachelor’s degree and experience in the field. Some positions require graduate-level education or a graduate degree. To work at historical museums, however, you must possess strong verbal communication skills and an interest in history. This is because the jobs at historical museums are diverse, and the qualifications for each position will depend on the position you are seeking.
Besides overseeing the collections, a museum manager is responsible for the management of the museum’s collections. This person is responsible for planning the Museum’s collection moves and ensuring that all artifacts are handled and maintained in the best possible manner. They will also purchase storage materials and reconcile any missing items.