Lead Curator - Digital Archives
Our client, a prestigious cultural institution in Des Moines, Iowa, US , is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Curator for their Digital Archives. This hybrid role offers a unique blend of on-site engagement and remote flexibility, allowing you to shape the future of digital preservation and accessibility. You will be responsible for developing and executing the strategic vision for our digital collections, ensuring their long-term preservation, organization, and user engagement. This includes overseeing the digitization process, implementing metadata standards, and developing innovative ways to make these valuable resources available to researchers, educators, and the public. Responsibilities: Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for the management, preservation, and accessibility of digital archives. Oversee the digitization of physical collections, ensuring high-quality standards and efficient workflows. Manage and maintain the digital asset management system (DAMS) and associated infrastructure. Develop and enforce robust metadata standards (e.g., Dublin Core, EAD) for digital objects. Curate and organize digital collections, creating thematic exhibitions and online content. Collaborate with IT departments to ensure the security, integrity, and long-term preservation of digital assets. Conduct user needs assessments and develop strategies to enhance user experience and access to digital resources. Train and supervise a team of archivists, technicians, and volunteers involved in digital projects. Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in digital curation, archival science, and digital preservation. Develop grant proposals and seek funding opportunities to support digital initiatives. Advise on copyright and intellectual property issues related to digital collections. Promote digital collections through outreach, social media, and partnerships with other institutions. Prepare reports on the status of digital initiatives and collection growth. Qualifications: Master's degree in Library Science, Archival Studies, Museum Studies, or a related field with a focus on digital curation. Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in managing digital collections and archives. Demonstrated experience with digital asset management systems (DAMS) and archival software. Strong understanding of metadata standards, digital preservation principles, and archival theory. Excellent project management, leadership, and communication skills. Experience in a hybrid work environment is a plus. Familiarity with digital humanities tools and methodologies is desirable. This role requires a passionate advocate for digital heritage with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to scholarly access. Apply tot his job Apply To this Job