Collections Manager

Our collections help us think and learn about our world.

Kauffman Museum’s mission is to preserve and share the evolving story of central plains Mennonites, focusing on their relationships with community, culture, and environment. The museum’s collections play a central role in this mission, offering opportuities to explore beliefs, identity, movement, and change. With a collection of over 45,000 artifacts, including Mennonite furniture, quilts, taxidermy, and cultural history items, Kauffman Museum provides a deeper understanding of Mennonite history and the broader natural and cultural history of the region. These collections support permanent and special exhibitions, research, and educational programs that engage visitors of all ages in authentic learning experiences.

Read more about our collection and donation guidelines.

The Collections Manager oversees the management of the museum collections and advances the museum’s mission by developing relationships with artifact donors and supporting the curatorial and education initiatives of the institution.

Essential Functions:

Collections

• • • Cataloging of collections including assessment of and investigation about potential artifact donations, accessioning, cataloging (both hard copy and PastPerfect), photography, condition reports, storage and inventory
    • Respond to donor inquiries; meet with potential donors; and maintain donor relations, files and contact information; and issue deed of gift paperwork
    • In consultation with the museum director and the Collections Committee, recommend artifacts for deaccession following the museum’s Collections Policy
    • Lead museum Native American Graves and Repatriation (NAGPRA) compliance efforts
    • Monitor physical environment and work with other museum staff to provide best possible conditions for display and storage of artifacts
    • Care for artifacts on exhibit and in storage, including arrangements for professional conservation when needed
    • Other collections related duties

Exhibitions and Outreach

• • • Provide support to curatorial teams developing exhibitions, compile artifact information for exhibit checklists and catalogs, process incoming and outgoing loan request, acquire copyright permission for image reproduction, work with other staff on installation and deinstallation of artifacts in exhibits, care for artifacts in special exhibitions
    • Facilitate installation of small exhibits on the Bethel College campus, in the community and at Kauffman Museum
    • Provide input for visitors, donors and groups interested in specific artifacts or topics

Operations and Other

• • • Attend museum staff meetings
    • Provide back-up staffing for museum as needed
    • Participate in special events when appropriate and necessary
    • Satisfy the duties of a Mandated Reporter relating to Title IX and the Bethel College Equal Opportunity, Harassment, & Non-Discrimination Policy and Procedures
    • Comply with Bethel College and Kauffman Museum policies and procedures

Who You’ll Work With

Kauffman Museum is comprised of a small, close-knit team of professionals and volunteers that you’ll interact with regularly. Check out our Staff & Board page to learn more.

Read the full job description and apply at bethelks.edu using the link below.