Collections Assistant

About the Role

This position offers a hands-on opportunity to actively support the care, documentation, and accessibility of the Hawke’s Bay Museums Trust collection, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Serving as a Collections Assistant, you will be an integral part of the Collections team, responsible for diverse tasks including cataloguing, object care, and supporting exhibitions, research, loans, and community engagement.

The role combines behind-the-scenes collection stewardship with interaction between researchers, visitors, community groups, and museum staff, offering a dynamic working environment where no two days are alike.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with acquisitions, cataloguing new items, and continuous documentation of the collection.
• Handle, care for, pack, and ensure safe storage of collection objects.
• Prepare and install items for exhibitions; facilitate incoming and outgoing loans.
• Enable collection access to researchers, visitors, and community groups.
• Respond promptly to enquiries and maintain accurate collection records.
• Contribute to environmental monitoring, pest control, and disaster preparedness efforts.
• Collaborate across museum departments and drive continuous improvements.

Candidate Profile

Ideal candidates will hold a postgraduate qualification in Museum Studies or a related field and have experience with collection management or registration in museum settings. Organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage tasks independently are essential. Strong communication and relationship-building capabilities are required, along with an understanding of bicultural practices in the museum sector.

Applicants must hold a full New Zealand driver licence and be physically capable of safely moving and handling collection items. Familiarity with Vernon Collection Management System or possession of a forklift licence is advantageous.

Benefits and Terms

• Five weeks of annual leave after two years of continuous service.
• Access to discounted health insurance schemes including eye test subsidies.
• Retail discounts and study assistance options.
• Employee Assistance Program support.
• Quarterly recognition awards, birthday vouchers, and involvement in social club activities.
• Annual free flu vaccinations.
• Cultural opportunities such as Ka Awatea Wānanga, NCC Kapa Haka, and Te Reo Māori classes.

This is a permanent, full-time role (40 hours/week, Monday to Friday), primarily based at Amokura in Hastings CBD, with occasional work at Kahukura in Napier CBD.

The salary package ranges from $70,961 to $79,309 per annum (inclusive of KiwiSaver), with the final compensation depending on experience and qualifications.

Additional Information

Napier City Council is committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Support can be provided during the application and interview process as needed. Cultural competency is fostered through partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi and facilitated by the Te Waka Rangapū Māori Partnerships team.

Successful applicants will undergo pre-employment screening including criminal background checks, and certain roles may require health assessments and drug/alcohol testing. Employees may be called upon to assist during Civil Defence emergencies.