Study Room Assistant

Position Summary:

The University of New Mexico Art Museum (UNMAM) is dedicated to advanced learning and creating connections, both in and outside of the University community. As a teaching museum, we are committed to offering students professional development and mentorship opportunities as well as access to the largest collection of artworks in New Mexico. Through the Museum Assistant Program, UNMAM aims to be a leader in establishing dynamic education and workforce training for the next generation of museum leaders and creative professionals.

The Study Room Assistant, a specialized role within the Museum Assistant Program, contributes to facilitating research and teaching visits to UNMAM's Beaumont Newhall Study Room. Working alongside the Curator of Collections & Study Room Initiatives, the Study Room Assistant retrieves and returns works of art for viewings, facilitates visits, oversees visitors, and helps produce pull lists and supporting materials for classes. Along with Curators and the Collections Manager, this individual is responsible for ensuring that all works of art are properly and safely handled, that all artworks are returned to their correct locations, and that visitors adhere to the policies of the Study Room. Previous collections experience at an art museum is not required. However, a desire to pursue a career in art museums and knowledge of art materials, techniques, and history is strongly preferred.

This position is for the Spring and Fall semesters, with the possibility of renewal for future semesters.

Duties and Responsibilities:

The Study Room Assistant supports UNM Art Museum's active Study Room by retrieving and returning works of art, practicing proper and secure art handling, and ensuring that visitors adhere to the policies of the Study Room. They may also assist with the creation of pull lists, communication with visitors, and cataloguing.

The ideal candidate would work approximately 8 hours a week and commit to a two-semester (through Fall 2025) term, with the possibility of renewal for future semesters. The candidate must be available during the Study Room's standard operating hours: Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm.

• Enrolled in a degree seeking program at UNM in Art History, Studio Art, or Museum Studies (BA, BFA, MA, MFA, PhD)

• Enrolled at least half-time (6 hours) at UNM for Fall and Spring Semesters (Audit hours do not count), and if Work Study, you must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress

• Ability to follow detailed instructions

• Ability to work independently and take initiative, while also working effectively in a team environment.

• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills

• Excellent attention to detail

• Adherence to art handling and museum protocols and procedures

• Interest in a career in art museums

• Ability to lift boxes, books, and other objects (up to 30 lbs)

• Ability to walk and stand for extensive periods