Collections AssistantSalary transparent

The mission of the Planes of Fame Air Museum is to preserve aviation history, inspire an interest in aviation, educate the public, and honor aviation pioneers and veterans.

While the current base of museum operations is located in Chino, California, in 2025, the Museum began a multi-phase project in Santa Maria, establishing a substantial presence in the area.

Summary of Position

Working under the direction of the Project Collections Lead, this role includes data entry in the collection management system (CMS), inventorying, collection assessment, rehousing and packing, and object tracking. This position is central to the project and offers valuable, hands-on experience for an emerging museum professional.

● Support item-level documentation of artifacts, archival materials, and library holdings;

● Perform accurate data entry and record creation in the Museum’s CMS; record and maintain location and inventory information

● Assist with object handling, numbering, rehousing, and/or packing of collection items following established procedures

Required:

● Training, coursework, or experience in museum studies, history, or a related field;

● Knowledge of art and object handling, packing, rehousing techniques, and best practices

● Strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy;

● Proficient in Microsoft Office applications

Preferred:

● Familiarity with collection management databases (preferably PastPerfect)

● Experience cleaning art and artifacts

● Experience using and/or creating spreadsheets, project management software

● Coursework or degree in museum studies, library or information science, archives, or history

Job Competencies

● Ability to handle works of art for extended periods, use simple hand tools

● Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds and work on your feet

● Ability/willingness to use step ladders and other basic equipment

● Ability/willingness to work in dusty non-climate controlled environments. PPE provided.

● Ability to work with professionalism and sensitivity surrounding cultural heritage and war-related materials.

Education:

● B.A./B.S. degree in Museum Studies, Anthropology, Art History, or equivalent experience

Employment terms, Compensation and Benefits

This is a grant-funded, term (52 weeks) non-exempt position, 35 hours per week, with the possibility of transitioning to a permanent placement. This position is expected to work onsite at the Museum in Santa Maria, California, with occasional evening or alternative hours as needed. The candidate must be able to trvel to and from the Chino location.

The pay for this position is $30.00/hour. An offer for this role is contingent on reference checks and passing a background check in line with California Assembly Bill 506. Employment with the Museum remains at-will.

Planes of Fame Air Museum is an equal opportunity employer committed to a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and any form of disrespectful or unprofessional conduct. We prohibit unlawful treatment of employees or applicants on the basis of any characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Please email a resume/CV and letter of interest to

jobs@planesoffame.org

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