Collections Assistant at Harvard University

Job Title: Collections Assistant

Job Status: Full-time

Location: Cambridge, MA

Job Summary

The Collections Assistant (NAGPRA) supports the management, cataloging, organization, rehousing, handling, and movement of archaeological and ethnographic collections during the three-year Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) Disposition Project at the Peabody Museum. This project expedites implementation of new policies at the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, forwarding disposition of Native American ancestors and identified associated funerary belongings under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. This is a three-year term position reporting to the Senior Collections Manager.

Position Description

  • Assist with all aspects of collections management of the Peabody Museum’s collections subject to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
  • Undertake the cataloging of NAGPRA collections using The Museum System (TMS) in preparation for consultation.
  • Assess, properly handle, and appropriately house objects of Indigenous culture.
  • Complete physical inventories of NAGPRA collections.
  • Performs photographic documentation of collections.
  • Lends collections management assistance to the registration and conservation departments with the movement and packing of NAGPRA collections. May assist the osteology/paleoanthropology department with NAGPRA-related collection movement.
  • Provides collections management assistance to NAGPRA department staff during on-site and remote consultations.
  • Performs other duties as required.

Basic Qualifications

Two years of museum collection management or registration experience required.

Additional Qualifications And Skills

  • B.A. in archaeology, anthropology, or museum studies preferred.
  • Familiarity with museum cataloging procedures, inventory methods, object handling required, and knowledge of NAGPRA processes preferred.
  • Experience working with Indigenous communities preferred.
  • Ability to maintain consistent descriptive standards of anthropological collections required.
  • Ability to handle fragile and culturally sensitive collections in keeping with museum standards and best practices.
  • Knowledge of and working experience with materials for display and storage of museum collections beneficial.
  • Accuracy, attention to detail, flexibility, and initiative required.
  • Excellent computer skills and familiarity with collections management databases.
  • Ability to work well on independent and team projects and to work under deadline pressure.
  • Some evening or weekend work may be required.

Additional Information

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. This is a 36-month term position.We regret that we will not be able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.All formal written offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard’s Total Rewards website to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

  • Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
  • Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
  • Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
  • Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
  • Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
  • Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
  • Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
  • Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
  • Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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