Job Description
Lab Manager- Regular Full-Time
The Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC) include the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park and La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park. They operate under the collective vision to inspire wonder, discovery, and responsibility for our natural and cultural worlds. The museums hold one of the world’s most extensive and valuable collections of natural and cultural history—more than 35 million objects—used for groundbreaking scientific and historical research, and community engagement. From NHM’s opening in 1913 as the very first museum in Los Angeles, the organization has entered an exciting new era of transformation with building projects and campaigns, exhibitions, community outreach and impactful audience engagement.
NHMLAC’s values—adventurous, inclusive, authentic, and intentional—guide our work and visitor experience, committing us to foster a welcoming, safe and respectful workplace environment where innovation and collaboration thrive and every team member can contribute their unique perspectives to advance our mission. NHMLAC seeks candidates who are aligned with our values and priorities, and are passionate about connecting science with the vibrant and diverse communities we serve throughout Los Angeles.
The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is seeking to hire a Lab Manager to direct and supervise operations in the Fossil Lab(s) at the Samuel Oschin Global Center for Ice Age Research at La Brea Tar Pits.
Position responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Preparation, conservation, stabilization, and repair of asphalt-preserved fossils using manual and chemical techniques
Management of staff, volunteers, students, and interns
Strategic planning and oversight of all Lab operations
Lab administration and budget management
Ensuring compliance with institutional and governmental health & safety requirements, including the procurement, handling and disposal of hazardous materials
Daily documentation of work
Maintenance of the Fossil Lab spaces
Interaction with researchers and assistance with research projects
Cross-departmental collaboration to support programs, exhibits, and other institutional priorities
Leading/assisting with tours
Interaction with media and the public
Other duties as directed by the Curator(s)
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
At least 8 years experience working in paleontological preparation
At least 5 years experience supervising staff and/or volunteers
Extensive knowledge of vertebrate osteology
Experience in the use, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals
Demonstrated ability to lead a productive team
Excellent interpersonal skills, professionalism, and collaborative behavior
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Demonstrated expertise in public science communication
Excellent organizational and time management skills
Willingness to work full-time, on-site (no remote option)
Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including occasional weekends and evenings
Daily contact with liquid asphalt, asphaltic matrix, and chemical solvents
Occasional need to wear protective equipment (mask, respirator, goggles, gloves, etc.)
Willingness to work in public view and interact frequently with the public
Willingness to interact with tour groups or news media as required
Previous experience working with asphalt-preserved fossil material strongly preferred
OTHER INFORMATION
NHMLAC is a nonprofit organization committed to fostering a workplace and public environment that uplifts Kindness, Fairness, Openness and Dignity. These values extend not only to our employees, but to our guests, local community, and organizational partners. If you are interested in this position, we encourage you to apply!
The salary for this position is $71,000.00 a year. This is a full time, regular, exempt position. Application review begins September 28th.
Applicants should send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a portfolio demonstrating technical mastery of fossil preparation, and contact information for two professional references along with their application. Please submit all applications to the Museum’s employment site at -our-museums/careers-la-brea-tar-pits
Please contact jobs@nhm.org for any inquiries. Application review begins September 28th and the position will remain o pen until filled. Application Review begins September 28th.
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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