Background:

The Goodwill Computer Museum (GCM) emerged over a number of years as a spinoff from the major electronics recycling effort carried out by Goodwill Industries of Central Texas.  The museum has a vast collection of hardware and software, a dedicated space of 1,200 square feet in the Goodwill Community Center and a staff which consists of a full time curator position and a cadre of skilled engineers who volunteer regularly to undertake computer restoration and research projects.  The museum has a growing partnership with educational institutions and local museums.  Goodwill looks to 2012 with tremendous optimism for the continued growth of the Computer Museum.  In addition to exhibit growth, restoration, inventory, and cataloging, the GCM looks to increase engagement with educational institutions, research partners, and the vast community of volunteers and businesses that have played a role in the amazing computing revolution.

Responsibilities:

The museum curator will plan and oversee the arrangement, cataloguing and exhibition of collections; maintain collection with staff of volunteers and technicians; acquire and preserve important documents and other valuable objects for permanent storage or display.  In addition the curator will utilize strong leadership skills in developing the museums ability to describe, catalogue and analyze collection for the benefit of researchers and the public.  This person will evaluate all existing programming with a fresh eye working with the parent organization and community partners to maximize opportunities.  Lastly, the curator must embrace the role chief spokesperson for the museum.

Ideal Qualifications and Characteristics:

The ideal candidate will be optimistic, creative and enthusiastic about the potential of the Goodwill Computer Museum and will have or be the following:

• Significant curatorial experience and background in computer development and technology.
• Ability to build and nurture relationships with a wide range of individuals from engineers/technicians to academics to collectors to business and civic leaders;
• Demonstrated skill as an effective spokesperson and ambassador for an institution or program, both verbally and in writing;
• Integrity; an engaging professional who is committed to excellence, practices good judgment and exudes ease, credibility and a delight in the work at hand; a sense of humor to maintain balance and perspective

Education and Experience:

Master’s Degree in museum studies, library science or related field.  Three to five years experience.  Experience working with small museums setting is a plus.  Experience with grant proposals and promotional events and activities.  Experience creating and refining  documentation and record keeping of the collection whether donated from known sources or anonymously.  Knowledge of computing history and technical industry from its developmental stage – specifically 1960 to 1990.  Proven ability to work with and solicit volunteers from educational, technical, and community interest groups.  Ability to interface with parent organization executive staff to further the mission of the overall organization.

Must be able to pass drug & background screen.

How to apply:

Visit www.austingoodwill.org to apply online.  Paper applications and resumes can be submitted at 1015 Norwood Park Blvd., Austin, TX 78753 or at one of our Job Help Center Locations in Central Texas (see website for more info) or fax in application and resume to (512) 637-7132.

Goodwill Industries is a premier non-profit dedicated to putting people with barriers to employment to work.  We are an Equal Opportunity Employer