Seasonal contract April - October to oversee the Mill of Kintail Museum

About the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA)

MVCA is a watershed-based agency that oversees natural hazards and resource management in the Mississippi, Carp, and Ottawa river basins in Eastern Ontario.  We deliver programs and services across three business lines:  Planning & Ecological Services, Conservation Lands Management, and Engineering.  MVCA employs adaptive management principles to administer permits under the Conservation Authorities Act; design, operate and maintain water control structures; and to deliver community-based programs.  Our vision is “Watershed stakeholders working together to foster a sustainable landscape where ecological integrity is maintained, natural hazards are mitigated, and nature can be enjoyed and appreciated by all.”

Established in 1968 under the Conservation Authorities Act, MVCA is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of municipal representatives from eleven local municipalities and a provincial agricultural representative.  We are largely funded by annual municipal levies, with the balance of funding coming from user fees, grants and contributions, donations, and special project fees.

MVCA is an inclusive and welcoming workplace, and we invite people of diverse backgrounds to apply (including Indigenous, 2SLGBTQ, racialized, new Canadians.)  We have an active social committee that organizes events throughout the year.  We offer a hybrid work environment, competitive benefits, challenging and interesting work, and a beautiful work environment near the shores of the Mississippi River a short commute from several established and growing communities.

Come make a difference in people’s lives and the physical environment.  Apply Today!

To learn more about the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, please visit our website.

About the Opportunity

MVCA is looking for a Museum Curator based in Mississippi Mills, ON at Mill of Kintail site.  April through October 

This position is responsible for seasonal operation of the Mill of Kintail Museum which houses the artefacts of R. Tait McKenzie and James Naismith and a small gift shop.  Key activities include ensuring that museum collections are cared for following Canadian Museum Association standards, training and supervising staff, welcoming and working with visitors, researching and coordinating funding opportunities, programming exhibits and ensuring that the museum is operated in a safe and professional manner, and gift shop operations.  This position also provides support to other activities occurring at the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area. 

Your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Ensure conservation of the collection by carefully cleaning, handling and storing artifacts; and monitoring temperature, humidity and light levels.
• Assist with research of available grants, preparation and submission of applications for special projects and the Community Museum Operating Grant.
• Develop and prepare exhibits; provide interpretation of exhibits to visitors; assist with the development of education programs.
• Document donations and loans, maintain records and catalogues.  Receive and provide loans of artifacts to/from other museums.
• Liaise with other museum managers.
• Maintain research facilities which include heritage books, photos and other materials.
• Support the Education Program by helping to deliver onsite tours and presentations as part of field trip bookings
• Manage the gift shop including managing inventory and submitting cash and e-receipts and a summary of gift shop sales and revenues.

To read the full position description, please click here

More About You

To qualify, you will ideally hold a diploma in museum studies, and/or completion of workshops offered by the Canadian Conservation Institute and the Ontario Museum Association, along with a minimum of 2+ years of progressive experience.   Experience and formal training combined with demonstrated performance and ability may substitute for the academic requirement. 

As our ideal candidate, you will join us with the following skills and knowledge

• Care for artefacts in accordance with CMA standards.
• Design and execute special exhibits and organize related events.
• Coordinate and deliver activities with colleagues and external partner organizations.
• Inventory control and money management.
• Make appropriate, realistic and timely decisions based upon analysis of facts and alternatives.
• Provide excellent service to clients by focusing efforts on discovering and meeting their needs.
• Communicate effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing; including effective presentation skills.
• Lead by example, demonstrating integrity, creativity and enthusiasm in achieving results.
• Demonstrate integrity, creativity and enthusiasm in achieving results.
• Knowledge of local history, R. Tait McKenzie or James Naismith would be an asset.
• Basic proficiency in the use of computers and Windows-based software.
• Be approachable and engaging when dealing with groups and members of the public

Duration and Hours of Work

• 35-40 hours/week From April - October, inclusive.

Security:  This position requires a Vulnerable Sector Record Check.

Salary Range: $26.70-$33.40 per hour

There is no public transportation; candidates must have reliable transportation prior to applying.