Collections Assistant at the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology,Harvard University
Job Title: Collections Assistant
Job Status: Full-time
Location: Cambridge, MA
Salary: $56,000
Description
The Collections Assistant manages assigned Peabody Museum collections storage rooms and assists in the management, cataloging, organization, rehousing, handling, and movement of Peabody Museum collections. Reports to the Collections Manager. For additional information or to apply, please go to https://hr.harvard.edu/search-jobs position 66907BR.istant manages assigned Peabody Museum collections storage rooms and assists in the management, cataloging, organization, rehousing, handling, and movement of Peabody Museum collections. Reports to the Collections Manager. For additional information or to apply, please go to https://hr.harvard.edu/search-jobs position 66907BR.
Requirements
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist with all aspects of collections management of the Peabody Museum’s archaeological and ethnographic collections as assigned, with a particular focus on implementing integrated pest management and supporting conservation activities.
- Assess, properly handle, and appropriately house collections including Indigenous cultural items.
- Organize and maintain specified storage spaces in the Museum.
- Reorganize collections in storage, including any necessary rehousing.
- Catalog and physically inventory of collections using The Museum System (TMS).
- Performs photographic documentation of collections.
- Assists with registration, conservation, documentation, and exhibition of the collections as assigned.
- May work with interns and students on selected projects.
- Performs other duties as required.
Basic Qualifications
- Two years of museum collection management or registration experience required.
Position Requirements:
- B.A. in archaeology, anthropology, or museum studies preferred.
- Two years of museum collection management or registration experience required.
- Familiarity with museum cataloging procedures, inventory methods, object handling, photography, and digital image processing.
- 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, knowledge of The Museum System (TMS) preferred.
- Ability to work well on independent and team projects and to work under deadline pressure.
- Understanding of and commitment to the ethical stewardship of museum collections in partnership with communities.
- Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
The Peabody Museum
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.
How To Apply