Collections Steward at Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology/Harvard University

Job Title: Collections Steward

Job Status: Full-time

Location: Cambridge, MA

Salary: $63,000

Description

The Collections Steward coordinates and implements all aspects of museum collections management, with particular focus on interfacing with the public on inquiries related to the museum collections and supporting external research use of the ethnographic and/or archaeological collections. Performs a wide range of collections management and administrative duties for assigned collections.  Oversees and carries out day-to-day work with the collection. Reports to the Senior Collections Manager.  To apply, go to https://hr.harvard.edu/search-jobs 60110BR.

 

Requirements

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Facilitates access to and use of assigned collections by visiting scholars, researchers, colleagues, descendant communities, and others, including responding to inquiries about the collection.
  • Supports use of the collection for research, exhibitions, and publications.
  • Responsible for the organization, maintenance, and use of specified collections in the Museum; assists with other collections as assigned.
  • Collaborates on collections care and management, preservation, analytical sampling preparation, and other tasks associated with the research and management of the collection.
  • Communicates workflow and information cross-departmentally to facilitate collections access.
  • Performs all tasks necessary to undertake the cataloging, physical inventory, and photographic documentation of assigned collections at the Peabody Museum as needed to facilitate access to collections.
  • Verifies, researches, and enters information in the database (TMS) by reviewing pertinent collections documentation, archival materials, and published sources.
  • Reorganizes collections in storage, including any necessary re-housing as needed to facilitate access.
  • May work with/supervise temporary staff, interns, or students on special projects.
  • Performs other duties as required.

Basic Qualifications:

  • B.A. in museum studies, anthropology, archaeology, or a related field;
  • Five or more years of demonstrated collections experience required.  M.A. in museum studies, anthropology, archaeology, or a related field could be considered in lieu of two years experience.

Position Requirements

  • A. in museum studies, anthropology, archaeology, or a related field; M.A. preferred.
  • Five or more years of demonstrated collections experience required with broad knowledge of museum collection standards and best practices.
  • Understanding of and commitment to the ethical stewardship of museum collections in partnership with stakeholder communities.
  • This position has assigned responsibility for access to African, Oceanic, and other non-North American ethnographic holdings. Basic knowledge in one or more of these areas is preferred but not required.
  • Experience with object handling, storage, and preservation.
  • Familiarity with museum cataloging procedures, inventory methods, and documentation.
  • Excellent writing and verbal skills to interact with a wide audience range.
  • Excellent computer skills and familiarity with collections management databases; knowledge of The Museum System (TMS) preferred.
  • Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills with particular ability to multitask, coordinate complex projects, and prioritize work in an environment with competing deadlines.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a strong departmental team.

The Peabody Museum is situated on the ancestral and traditional land of the Massachusett people. It cares for over 1.2 million items from across the world, including cultural, archaeological, and osteological collections as well as extensive photographic and archival materials. The Museum is committed to the ethical stewardship of its collections through implementation of collaborative and culturally responsive care, interpretation, and engagement. We strive for a diverse, inclusive and equitable working environment and to act in ways that address the global challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability.

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