At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the care and access of a diverse collection of artworks at the British Museum.
- Company: Join the iconic British Museum, a hub of history and culture in Bloomsbury, London.
- Benefits: Enjoy free exhibition entry, generous leave, discounts, and wellbeing perks.
- Other info: Dynamic museum environment with opportunities for learning and career growth.
- Why this job: Work hands-on with historic and contemporary art, making it accessible to the public.
- Qualifications: Organised, practical, and passionate about collections care and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 29642 - 29642 £ per year.
This is a hands‑on opportunity to work in the British Museum's Prints and Drawings Department, supporting the care, access and movement of a collection that covers the period from 1400 to today. As Assistant Collection Manager, you will help ensure works on paper are safely stored, documented, displayed and made accessible for study, loans and exhibitions. Alongside artists such as Michelangelo, Rembrandt and Kollwitz, the collection also includes works by contemporary artists such as Andy Warhol, Bridget Riley, David Hockney, Yinka Shonibare and Kara Walker, with active acquisitions continuing today. The role combines study room supervision, loans and display work, storage projects and some courier activity in a dynamic museum environment.
You are practical, organized and keen to work closely with artworks, with a strong interest in collections care and access. You understand the importance of careful handling, accurate documentation and best practice when working with works on paper. A confident team‑player and clear communicator, you are comfortable engaging with curators, researchers and the public, and remain calm and professional in busy environments. Whether you bring prior museum experience or are developing your career in collections management, you are motivated by working with a collection that bridges historic and contemporary art.
Key areas of responsibility:- Supply and supervise objects for the Study Room, providing a welcoming and professional service to researchers and visitors.
- Support the movement, packing, installation and display of works on paper for galleries, storage, loans and exhibitions.
- Assist with loans and touring exhibitions, including acting as a UK or international courier.
- Monitor the security and condition of objects in storage, transit and on display, always following best practice.
- Maintain accurate collection documentation, including location tracking, condition reports and photography.
- Support collections audits, mount‑making, and wider Care & Access projects across the department.
- Free exhibition entry for you and guests, exclusive private views, ICOM and reciprocal museum access.
- 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays and 2.5 privilege days (and +5 days after 10 years).
- Discounts at onsite catering, Museum shops and local Bloomsbury partners.
- Social and wellbeing perks including staff parties, social clubs, CSSC sports and leisure, and support from the Civil Service Retirement Fellowship.
- Peer support and allyship with five diversity networks for community.
- Learning and development through courses, mentoring and Athena as well as support for professional qualifications.
- Employee Assistance Programme available 24/7 for counselling, wellbeing support and more.
- Eyecare vouchers for VDU tests and contributions toward glasses.
- Enhanced parental leave including maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave.
- Support for carers through Employers for Carers.
- Civil Service Pension Scheme with a secure, inflation‑linked defined benefit.
- Interest‑free loans including season ticket, rental deposit and bicycle loans.
Our Values: Care Deeply, Embrace the Unknown, Spark Curiosity, Value Many Voices.
Assistant Collection Manager: Care & Access employer: British Museum
Contact Detail:
British Museum Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Collection Manager: Care & Access
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the British Museum and its collections inside out! Familiarise yourself with the Prints and Drawings Department, especially the artists and works mentioned in the job description. This will help you engage confidently during interviews and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend museum events, exhibitions, or talks where you can meet curators and other professionals in the field. Building connections can give you insider info on job openings and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since the role involves engaging with researchers and the public, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly, ensuring it gets to the right people. Plus, keep an eye on our site for any updates or new opportunities that might pop up!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Collection Manager: Care & Access
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Collections Care: When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for collections care and access. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your interest in working with artworks, especially those on paper. We want to know what drives you!
Be Organised and Clear: Make sure your application is well-structured and easy to read. Use clear headings and bullet points where necessary. This shows us that you’re organised and can communicate effectively, which is key for the role.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight how your background aligns with our needs at the British Museum.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Museum
✨Know Your Collection
Familiarise yourself with the British Museum's Prints and Drawings collection, especially the key artists and works mentioned in the job description. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Practical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with collections care and access. Think of specific examples where you've successfully handled artworks or managed documentation, as this will highlight your practical skills and attention to detail.
✨Showcase Your Communication Style
As a confident team player, it's essential to demonstrate your communication skills. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be ready to explain how you would interact with curators, researchers, and the public in a busy museum environment.
✨Embrace the Museum's Values
Align your answers with the museum's values: Care Deeply, Embrace the Unknown, Spark Curiosity, and Value Many Voices. Reflect on how your personal values resonate with these principles, and be ready to share examples that illustrate your commitment to them.