Chicago Historical Society is hiring: Photographer/Imaging Specialist in Chicago

CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM

JOB TITLE: Photographer/Imaging Specialist

DEPARTMENT: Collections & Curatorial Affairs

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:

The Photographer/Imaging Specialist provides technical digital photography and scanning services to document the Museum's collections. This position requires a high degree of quality assurance and adherence to cultural heritage industry standards to help sustain and enhance CHM's role as a premier research institution. This role plays a key part in improving access to the Museum's collections and supports CHM's revenue generating operations through utilizing best practices in the efficient creation, management, and delivery of digital images.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide digital photography and scanning services in compliance with FADGI standards and cultural heritage best practices to document collections materials including manuscripts, books, photographic prints and negatives, broadsides, drawings, and three-dimensional objects
• Work closely with our Rights and Reproductions team and other Museum staff to implement safe, efficient, and effective workflows for creating, editing, managing, and delivering archival and production master digital images and other derivatives
• Meet deadlines without sacrificing quality
• Utilize safe object handling methods when handling collection materials; maintain security of collection materials and alert appropriate Collections staff to any preservation or conservation concerns identified during digitization process
• Utilize Color Management Systems (ArgyllCMS) to build accurate input and display profiles
• Utilize Adobe Photoshop to perform post-production processes (exposure correction, color correction, digital retouching, etc.) and batch processes to automate repetitive tasks
• Maintain and care for CHM photography equipment
• Keep studio areas clean and organized while tracking physical materials between offices
• Demonstrate excellent customer service and communication skills when dealing with staff and external clients
• Create a team spirit and enhance communication within the department so that staff members work collaboratively and in a supportive manner across departmental and functional areas

OTHER DUTIES:

• Create descriptive and administrative metadata for digital assets following national and local metadata/cataloging practices in an accurate manner
• Advise the Rights and Reproductions Manager in developing annual Photo Studio goals, objectives, and budget
• Ensure that supplies are adequately stocked and inventoried
• Keep informed of current photographic technologies, techniques, standards, and best practices
• Organize and maintain legacy image archive
• Other duties as assigned

REPORTS TO: Rights and Reproductions Manager

WORKING RELATIONSHIPS: The Photographer/Imaging Specialist works as part of a team that includes the Rights and Reproductions Manager, Rights and Reproductions Coordinator, and a second Photography/Imaging Specialist, and coordinates with Curators and Collections staff (Collection Managers, Archivists, Registration staff, and Conservator(s)). The Photographer also works with the departments of Research and Access, Exhibitions, Education, and Communications, and other staff to serve collection image needs.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• BFA in Photography (MFA and/or substantive relevant museum experience preferred)
• Minimum 2 years professional experience in digital and studio/on-location photography environments (Assistant, Digital Tech, or Photographer)
• Minimum 2 years professional experience in post-processing and image editing including exposure adjustment, color correction, clean-up, manipulation, and compositing
• Proficient in the setup and maintenance of digital imaging equipment, including digital cameras, flatbed scanners, and studio lighting and support equipment
• Knowledge and experience with traditional (film-based) photographic processes and terminology
• Experience working with original, historical materials in a museum, archive, or library setting (preferred)
• Proficient with large format printing, color management, and print proofing
• Expertise in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Bridge, Adobe Camera Raw, Capture One and SilverFast
• Working knowledge and experience with digital asset management software
• Ability to develop and follow complex workflows to meet production, quality control, and metadata requirements
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and work accurately and efficiently and in an organized manner to meet expectations in a deadline-driven environment
• Excellent visual acuity and attention to detail
• Excellent oral and written communications skills; ability to communicate effectively with staff and external clients
• Ability to handle archival materials safely
• Ability to lift/carry/move objects and studio equipment weighing up to 45 lbs
• Ability to climb step ladders and work standing, crouched or kneeling for extended durations
• Ability to work at a computer screen for extended durations
• Comfortable working in and transitioning between bright and low-light environments regularly
• Demonstrated commitment to collaboration, teamwork, and customer service
• Ability to solve technical and procedural problems creatively