Archives Assistant at Robert Rauschenberg Foundation

Job Title: Archives Assistant 

Job Status: Full-time 

Location: New York, NY

Salary: $55,000 – $60,000

Archives Assistant, Robert Rauschenberg Foundation

JOB TITLE:               Archives Assistant 
DEPARTMENT:        Archives
STATUS:                  Full time, non-exempt
REPORTS TO:        Director of Archives, Robert Rauschenberg Foundation
LOCATION:             New York City, in person

The Robert Rauschenberg Foundation expands the legacy of artist Robert Rauschenberg (1925–2008), who believed strongly in the power of art as a catalyst for social change. The Foundation supports research, institutions, and artists that embody the same collaborative, inclusive, and multidisciplinary approach that Rauschenberg exemplified in both his art and philanthropic endeavors.

As part of its stewardship of Rauschenberg’s artistic legacy, the Rauschenberg Foundation cares for, manages, and provides access to the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation Archives, which consists of several collections forming the most comprehensive body of information on the artist’s life and career. The Archives Assistant, working under the Director of Archives and with the Digital Asset Specialist, assists in the preservation of, cataloging of, access to, and use of the Archives, with a focus on supporting research and Foundation initiatives. The ideal candidate will have strong written and verbal skills, an attention to detail, ability to change tasks as needed, an interest in working with researchers and the public, and an enthusiasm for learning all aspects of archival practice.  This is an onsite, full-time hourly position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assists in providing reference services including back-up support monitoring researchers on-site and pulling/reshelving materials.
  • Assists with digitization reference requests and projects including scanning, cataloguing, and creating researcher PDFs as needed.
  • Assists in database cleanup including additional metadata, researching rights, and/or linking related records. 
  • Assists in maintaining the library including the cataloguing, circulation, and care of library materials. 
  • Provides archival processing support. May include arrangement and description of archival materials as assigned; re-housing and applying basic preservation measures when appropriate; creating and updating database records and finding aids.
  • Provides content for website and social media, as needed.
  • Assists with class visits and tours, as needed.
  • Supports archives department, as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE SKILL REQUIRED 

  • Bachelor’s degree and coursework in Library and Information Science, a related field, or at least one years’ experience in a professional setting.
  • Knowledge of or interest in professional standards and best practices for archives, metadata standards, and controlled vocabularies.
  • Knowledge of or interest in 20th Century art.
  • Proficiency and ease with Mac-based computer systems.
  • Experience with ArchivesSpace and/or FileMaker Pro databases a plus.
  • Experience with image scanning and digitization a plus.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills; excellent time management skills; detail-oriented approach.

ADA SPECIFICATIONS 

  • Requires the ability to use a computer and office equipment traditionally found in office settings.
  • The ability to move items weighing up to 40lbs for various needs.
  • The ability to traverse stairs and ladders.
  • Requires the ability to work in multiple locations.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
As an equal opportunity employer and in our commitment to creating an equitable and inclusive work environment, the Rauschenberg Foundation strives to attract a diverse mix of talented people. Individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds in arts organizations are strongly encouraged to apply.

COMPENSATION
Compensation is $55,000 – $60,000 annually, commensurate with experience and includes a competitive benefit package.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS AND DEADLINE 
Please email letters of interest, including salary expectations, along with your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to employment@rauschenbergfoundation.org. Please indicate “Application for Archives Assistant” in the subject of your email.

The application deadline is Friday June 30, 2023. Qualified candidates may be contacted prior to the deadline.