Museum Collections in Greek America

For those Greek American cultural organizations envisioning to establishing ethnic museums yet lacking the necessary funds, a partnership with local institutions may provide an alternative strategy for heritage preservation (and enhanced cultural visibility). The following, a job opening for a curator for an Italian American collection, may provide a starting point for thinking about this route.

Curator, Italian American Collection at the Senator John Heinz History Center, Museum Division

The Curator of the Italian American Program's principal responsibilities are the documentation of the Italian American community in Western Pa. through artifact collections, archival collections, and oral histories, and the interpretation and presentation of the community's history through programs and publications, including articles, books, exhibits, lectures, events, web-site, computer interactives, and demonstrations. The Curator works with History Center staff and the Italian American Advisory Committee to develop a strategy for collecting and programming that supports and accommodates the overall strategies of the History Center. He/she implements that strategy by soliciting collections or responding to offers of donations. Also in keeping with the strategy, pursues oral histories, attends conferences related to Italian American and immigrant history, writes articles for publication, and organizes public programs and events.

Because the Curator's activities must dovetail with the goals and mission of the History Center, he/she must participate in department/division planning, project meetings, Museum Division projects where his/her expertise is needed, or in those projects which require the participation of all Museum Division staff, such as exhibit installations. This is a full-time position reporting to the Museum Division Director.

Requirements: Masters in history, museum studies, or cultural studies. A knowledge of material culture (how to look at and understand objects), historical interpretation, experience with oral histories and community work, object handling according to museum standards, and strong written and oral communication skills are required. Experience with digitization and using technology to share content preferred. A working knowledge of the Italian language is a plus.

Contact: We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability. Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter (including salary requirements) and resume to: Renee Falbo, Director of Human Resources, Senator John Heinz History Center 1212 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 hr@heinzhistorycenter.org

Fax:
412-454-6358
Website:
www.heinzhistorycenter.org