Collections Manager

Care for Collections, Steward Stories, Support Community ConnectionsThe Anchorage Museum is a place of ideas and transformation-committed to people, place, planet, and potential. Through our collections, we steward cultural heritage, artistic expression, and community knowledge that connect Alaska to the world.As Collections Manager, you will play a central role in the care, organization, and ethical stewardship of the Museum's permanent collection and artworks. This role ensures that objects are preserved, documented, stored, and accessed according to professional museum standards-while honoring cultural context, community relationships, and responsible stewardship practices.This position is ideal for someone who is detail-driven, systems-minded, and collaborative, and who values both the technical and relational dimensions of collections work.What You'll DoCollections Stewardship & CareManage day-to-day collections activities, including accessioning, cataloging, condition reporting, photography, and general preservationEnsure proper handling, storage, mounting, and movement of artworks and cultural heritage itemsMaintain and improve physical storage spaces, including building storage mounts as neededConduct regular inventories and ensure environmental and security protocols are followed Systems, Records & DocumentationMaintain and update the Museum's collections management system (TMS preferred)Ensure accurate, complete, and accessible physical and digital recordsResearch and reconcile found-in-collections itemsPrepare collections reports for Museum departments, researchers, and partners Exhibitions, Access & LoansInstall and deinstall exhibitions according to museum standards and best practicesFacilitate access to the collection for staff, researchers, artists, and community membersAssist with packing and preparation of loaned items and artworks as neededProcess image reproduction requests and maintain image usage agreements Engagement & CollaborationPromote the use of collections in education, exhibitions, research, and programsEngage with communities connected to the permanent collection to support ethical and culturally appropriate stewardshipTrain and supervise contractors, interns, and volunteers as neededRespond to internal and public inquiries related to the collectionSupport tours, presentations, and behind-the-scenes engagement when appropriate Who We're Looking ForWe're seeking a Collections Manager who combines strong technical expertise with thoughtful collaboration and cultural awareness. You're likely a strong fit if you bring:Professional experience in museum collections management, registration, or a closely related areaWorking knowledge of accepted museum practices, including accessioning, preservation, archival materials, packing, storage, and inventory controlHigh proficiency with collections management systems (TMS strongly preferred)Experience managing records, image rights, copyright considerations, and reproduction requestsWorking knowledge of Photoshop and Lightroom for collections photographyStrong organizational and project-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities accurately and efficientlyExcellent written and verbal communication skillsThe ability to work collaboratively with curators, registrars, artists, researchers, and community membersSound judgment, attention to detail, and discretion in handling sensitive materials and informationPhysical ability to safely handle and move artworks and cultural heritage items using appropriate equipment and proceduresWe recognize that people arrive at this work through many paths. If you are passionate about collections stewardship and believe you have the skills to succeed in this role, we encourage you to apply-even if your experience doesn't match every qualification listed.Why Join Us?As Collections Manager, your work will directly support preservation, access, and interpretation of meaningful collections that serve diverse communities. You will collaborate across departments, contribute to exhibitions and programs, and help ensure the Museum's collections remain cared for, respected, and accessible for generations to come.