Job Description

Salary: 15,900

(26,500 per annum pro rata)

Job Summary

The Museum Officer plays a vital role in the Heritage & Learning team, with primary responsibility for collections management, documentation, and care. Working under the guidance of the Heritage & Learning Manager, this role will support the maintenance of Museum Accreditation standards as HMS Unicorn prepares for re-accreditation in 2026.

The postholder will manage the collections store, implement appropriate documentation procedures, and work with volunteers on collections-related projects. A key aspect of this role is supporting the interpretation of HMS Unicorn's tangible and intangible heritage, including documenting and acquisitioning of related objects as part of the ongoing restoration and conservation work for Project Safe Haven. Working closely with the Heritage & Learning Manager, the Museum Officer will assist in providing authoritative guidance on historic aspects of the ship during Project Safe Haven, helping to document what can and cannot be altered during the conservation process. The Museum Officer will research and help tell the ship's stories, including challenging or hidden histories, contributing to exhibitions and interpretive displays that engage diverse audiences.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Collections Management and Documentation

Support the Heritage & Learning Manager in maintaining and improving collections management systems and documentation procedures Implement and maintain collections documentation, including accessioning, cataloguing, and location recording using appropriate collections management database systems Manage the HMS Unicorn collections store, ensuring appropriate environmental conditions, security, organization, and tidiness Lead on acquisitions processes, ensuring appropriate documentation and provenance research Maintain appropriate museum records and standards in line with recognised guidance from organizations such as the Museums Association and Museums & Galleries Scotland Contribute significantly to HMS Unicorn's re-accreditation process in 2026, particularly focusing on collections management standards
Research and Interpretation

Research and document the intangible histories of HMS Unicorn and its collections, including challenging or hidden histories Record and document the restoration and conservation process of HMS Unicorn as part of Project Safe Haven, creating an archive of this significant project Research and document the historical and archaeological connections between HMS Unicorn, Victoria Dock, East Graving Dock, and the conservation journey to support the Heritage & Learning Manager's advocacy for the heritage aspects of Project Safe Haven Research objects, the ship, and collections to enhance understanding and interpretation Support the refresh of interpretation panels and displays throughout HMS Unicorn Assist with collections-based enquiries from researchers, visitors, and other stakeholders
Conservation and Collections Care

Monitor the condition of collections and carry out preventive conservation measures as appropriate Ensure health and safety procedures are followed in all collections-related activities Advise the Unicorn Preservation Society on best practices and approaches for collections management, conservation, and interpretation Support the Heritage & Learning Manager in assessing the historic significance of ship elements and providing guidance on conservation decisions during Project Safe Haven
Exhibition and Engagement

Work with colleagues in the Heritage & Learning team to design and deliver heritage-focused exhibitions and events that showcase the collections and communicate the significance of HMS Unicorn as a historic vessel Coordinate and deliver object handling sessions with the Heritage & Learning team Raise awareness of HMS Unicorn's collections through various means, including contributions to digital content and publications Coordinate with volunteers working on collections-related projects, providing guidance and training Support the work of the Heritage & Learning team in delivering high-quality visitor experiences
Strategic Planning and Development

Contribute to the development of collections policies and plans Assist with the planning for collections aspects of Project Safe Haven, considering future storage and display needs Help identify funding opportunities for collections projects and assist with relevant applications

PERSON SPECIFICATION

This section details the attributes, skills, knowledge, qualifications and competencies which are required in order to undertake the full remit of this post.

Essential Criteria

Experience of working with museum collections and in a heritage setting Knowledge of collections management principles and procedures Understanding of preventive conservation practices Experience of documentation systems and procedures Knowledge of interpretation techniques and approaches for museum collections Experience of researching historical objects or maritime heritage Experience of contributing to exhibitions or interpretive displays Experience of working with or supporting volunteers Experience of digital collections management systems Ability to handle historic objects and materials safely and appropriately Strong attention to detail and accuracy Good organisational and time management skills Ability to work effectively as part of a team Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 applications, including Teams Self-motivated and proactive approach Creative problem-solving abilities Good communication skills, both written and verbal Commitment to inclusive practice and accessibility Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends
Desirable Criteria

Degree or qualification in museum studies, heritage management, or a related field Experience of working with maritime collections Experience of working on digitisation projects Experience of using museum collection documentation software such as Axiell Experience of working in a small/independent museum environment Experience of working with challenging histories or sensitive topics Knowledge of Museum Accreditation requirements Understanding of SPECTRUM documentation standards Knowledge of current interpretation trends and best practices Knowledge of conservation issues relating to maritime collections Awareness of relevant health and safety considerations for collections work
This role represents an exciting opportunity to join our team at a pivotal moment in HMS Unicorn's 200-year history. We encourage applicants to apply by submitting:

A CV and covering letter explaining how you meet the requirements of the role
Please submit informal enquiries and applications to: recruitment@hmsunicorn.org.uk

Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 11 months

Pay: 15,900.00 per year

Expected hours: 21 per week

Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Dundee, DD1 3BP

Application deadline: 12/05/2025