Assistant Curator, Private Records

• Non-Ongoing - Full Time - BB3
• $68,656 - $81,313
• Mitchell, ACT

The Role

The Research Centre manages the Memorial’s library and archive of both published and unpublished records. It provides information and reference services about Australia military history, the Memorial and its collections. The Private Record collection is integral to the fulfilment of Memorial’s purpose and mission. Primarily an archive of unpublished works, it consists of a variety of personal papers, such as diaries and letters, which demonstrate the personal experience of war. These collections represent individuals from all ranks and services of the Australian armed forces as well as civilians, and cover all conflicts in which Australian’s have been involved.

Under general direction, the Assistant Curator, Private Records participates in the selection, arrangement, description, control and care of the Private Records collection, in both physical and digital form, as well as its communication via the Memorial’s website, exhibitions and public programs. This position contributes to the Memorial’s current major development project, which encompasses building works and gallery development, helping to improve the experience and understanding of our visitors.

Core Responsibilities

• Participate in the appraisal and selection of material for inclusion in the Private Records archival collection in accordance with the Memorial’s Collection Development Plan and other corporate priorities to enhance the value of the National Collection.
• Participate in the arrangement and description of the Private Records archival collection and its preservation and storage, by maintaining appropriate and accurate catalogue records, assessing conservation needs, and ensuring current and accurate location records in accordance with appropriate standards and Memorial guidelines.
• Participate in the provision of public access to the Private Records archival collection by meeting appropriate legislative requirements, particularly the Copyright Act, 1968 and communicating the collection to the wider community by contributing to the Memorial’s public programs including exhibitions, gallery changeovers, online content via the Memorial’s website and social media platforms, and other avenues such as talks and tours, to facilitate greater understanding of the Australian experience of war.
• Contribute to the development of Collection Policy and Collection Management Systems by analysing, evaluating and reporting on the Private Record collection, to identify its strengths and weaknesses, any underlying issues or risks, and suggesting solutions and system improvements to effectively support collection needs.
• Provide a quality customer service by providing fair and timely reviews and advice for both internal and external clients within legislative and policy guidelines, as well as support for other Research Centre priorities such as the Reference Service.
• Perform safe manual handling techniques and move a variety of collection material, including but not limited to files and boxes.
• Observe APS values and apply the principles of workplace diversity, participative work practices and occupation health and safety.

Additional Requirements:

• May include rostered hours within the standard ordinary hours.

This position will be filled until 30 June 2025.

Contact Information:

• For specific questions relating to this job vacancy, please contact: Bryce Abraham, (02) 6243 4***
• For questions relating to the online lodgement of your application, please email the Recruitment team via **********@awm.gov.au

Closing Date:

Applications close at 11:30pm, Monday 11 March 2024

For more details about the position and how to apply, please view the information pack.

The Memorial is committed to workplace diversity and maintains an environment that values the contribution of people from different backgrounds and experiences. The Memorial welcomes applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, veterans, mature age people, people from diverse backgrounds, and people with a disability.

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