Registrar and Collections Manager | Lufkin, TX

Job Title: Registrar and Collections Manager
Reports To: Executive Director
Employment Type: Full-time

Location: Museum of East Texas, Lufkin, Texas

Position Summary:

The Registrar and Collections Manager is responsible for the stewardship, documentation, and care of the museum’s permanent collection and all incoming/outgoing loans. This role ensures that all collections-related activities meet professional museum standards, including collections care, recordkeeping, shipping, insurance, and exhibition preparation. As a member of a small team, the Registrar and Collections Manager will work closely with the Executive Director to support exhibitions, programming, and collections-based initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Collections Management:

• Maintain and update all collections records, including accessioning, deaccessioning, cataloging, and condition reports.
• Manage the museum's collections database (PastPerfect or equivalent).
• Oversee storage, conservation needs, and environmental conditions of collection areas.
• Conduct regular inventories and ensure object safety and security.

Registrar Duties:

• Coordinate all aspects of incoming and outgoing loans, including condition reporting, loan agreements, insurance, packing, and shipping.
• Maintain thorough documentation for exhibitions and temporary loans.
• Work with artists, lenders, couriers, and institutions to arrange logistics.
• Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and professional standards.

Exhibition Support:

• Collaborate with curatorial staff on the planning, installation, and deinstallation of exhibitions.
• Assist in mounting objects and preparing displays when needed.
• Coordinate with contractors or preparators for larger installations.

Policy & Procedures:

• Help maintain and revise the museum’s collections management policy and procedures.
• Stay informed about best practices in collections care and museum registration.

Administrative & Other Duties:

• Prepare reports for the Board of Directors as requested.
• Support grant writing or fundraising efforts related to collections care.
• Occasionally assist with public programming, tours, or educational initiatives as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Art History, Museum Studies, Archival Studies, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in registration, collections management, or a related museum field.
• Knowledge of museum collections databases (e.g., PastPerfect, TMS, or similar).
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and recordkeeping.
• Ability to handle artwork with care and follow museum handling protocols.
• Familiarity with museum standards (AAM, AIC, ARCS) and ethical guidelines.
• Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 40 pounds, and comfort working in storage and exhibition spaces.
• Collaborative spirit and flexibility to take on a variety of tasks in a small museum setting.

Compensation Range:

$42,000-$48,000 based on experience

To Apply:

Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to metlufkin@gmail.com by July 14. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.