Position Summary
The Curator is the Museum’s primary professional resource for collections management, historical research, exhibit development, and public interpretation. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Curator leads all curatorial activities in alignment with the Museum’s mission, strategic plan, and the collections management policies of the Alberta Museums Association. The Curator works collaboratively with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and volunteer committees to ensure the long-term preservation, documentation, interpretation, and accessibility of Pioneer Acres’ unique collection of agricultural and industrial heritage artifacts.
In a low staff environment, the Curator also serves as the designated point of operational continuity when the Executive Director is unavailable due to off-site commitments, vacation, or other absence. In this capacity, the Curator acts on behalf of the Executive Director for day-to-day operational matters within pre-established parameters, escalating decisions of strategic or financial significance to the Board President or designate as appropriate.
Key Responsibilities
1. Collections Management and Documentation – Stewardship, documentation, and care of the Pioneer Acres collection, including accessioning, deaccessioning, condition assessment, conservation, and artifact loans; maintenance of the collections information management system; and support and guidance to the Collections Management Committee volunteers on accession documents and procedures.
2. Research and Interpretation – Conduct and oversee original research on the collection and Western Canadian agricultural and industrial history; develop interpretive content for exhibits, signage, visitor guides, and social media; prepare grant narratives, catalogues, and reports; and promote the collection through lectures, tours, workshops, and community engagement.
3. Exhibit Development and Public Programming – Plan, develop, and install permanent, temporary, and travelling exhibits; deliver interpretive programming for students, seniors, and community groups, with a focus on growing off-season tours; and build collaborative relationships with schools, community organizations, and heritage sector partners.
4. Volunteer Engagement and Training – Train, supervise, and coordinate volunteers in collections, exhibit, and programming work; collaborate with the Executive Director and Events Planner on volunteer scheduling; and foster a culture of recognition, meaningful engagement, and continuous learning.
5. Strategic and Organizational Contributions – Contribute to the Museum’s strategic plan, AMA Recognized Museum designation, grant applications, Board and membership reporting, and social media strategy related to artifacts, exhibits, and historical interpretation.
6. Operational Continuity – Acting Responsibilities – Serve as the designated backup for the Executive Director during absences, acting as the primary staff contact, managing day-to-day on-site operations, and escalating urgent financial, safety, HR, or governance matters to the Board President or designate.
Qualifications and Experience
Education
- A post-secondary degree or diploma in Museum Studies, History, Agricultural History, Anthropology, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and demonstrated museum experience will be considered.
- Enrollment in or completion of the Alberta Museums Association Certificate in Museum Studies is considered a strong asset.
Experience
- Minimum two years of experience in a museum or heritage institution environment, with hands-on work in collections management, documentation, and public programming.
- Experience working with volunteers, including training, scheduling, and supervision.
- Experience with agricultural, industrial, or rural heritage collections is a significant asset.
- Experience using artifact database software or collections management systems.
Knowledge and Skills
- Sound knowledge of museum best practices in collections management, accessioning, artifact handling, conservation, and exhibit development.
- Understanding of the Alberta Museums Association standards and the requirements for maintaining Recognized Museum designation.
- Strong research skills and the ability to develop interpretive content accessible to a broad public audience.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write for diverse formats (signage, newsletters, grant narratives, board reports, social media).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and comfort learning collections management database applications.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently in a small-team environment.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with volunteers, Board members, and community partners.
- Genuine interest in and knowledge of Western Canadian agricultural, rural, and industrial history.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
Hours of work will generally be five eight-hour days per week and will include times when the Museum is open to the public. Days and hours may be subject to review. Holiday requests are subject to approval by the Executive Director.
The Curator must be physically able to walk the Museum grounds to conduct tours, assess artifact storage, and support events. The role may require the lifting of items up to 20 kilograms and work on ladders or in outdoor settings. Some weekend and evening work is required during the operating season and for special events.
Confidentiality and Discretion
The Curator must maintain the confidentiality of all organizational, member, donor, and operational information and must not discuss such matters outside of Pioneer Acres Plowmen & Threshermen’s Club of Alberta. Tact and discretion must be used in all dealings with visitors, potential visitors, donors, members, volunteers, and the public, to maintain a positive and professional image of Pioneer Acres Museum.
Pay: $26.00-$32.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company events
- Dental care
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Store discount
- Wellness program
Work Location: In person
