What is your career background? 

After completing a degree in Archaeology and Classics in UCC in 2011, I worked in the archaeology sector for a number of years and then went back to college and to do an MA in Arts and Heritage Management. I joined the County Museum as intern as part of this Masters programme in 2013 and I worked with the museum in a number of capacities since then before getting my current job in 2017.

What does your role involve? 

The beauty of a job in the museum field is that it’s very varied. There isn’t a usual pattern for how the day should work. My job involves cataloguing and researching the museum collection, and I’m also responsible for the storage and display of our objects. I facilitate tours, school and community projects and academic research. The collection began in 1940s and we have accumulated around 25,000 objects. There is a big backlog of material to be catalogued and researched!

What are the most rewarding things about working for a local authority?

The most rewarding thing about working for a local authority museum is the hands-on experience of the history of the county you get. Tipperary has a rich and diverse history and this job gives me the opportunity to immerse myself in that and learn new things every day about that history. We also get to work in partnership with other sections of council like the libraries and archives services. 

Why should someone consider a career with a local authority?

In my experience there is great access to education and continuous professional development. There are lots of opportunities to attend conferences, get hands-on learning experience, and work with other departments in the council. It is a very collaborative environment. You have the community aspect too. We are always on hand to offer support to people to who want to learn more about the history of their county.