Associate Archivist, Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
Posted May 4, 2021
Description:
Job Summary
The Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology seeks a user-centered, inclusive, innovative, and collaborative Associate Archivist. Under the supervision of the Senior Archivist, this position is primarily responsible for providing reference services and processing collections for the extensive and diverse archival and photographic material stewarded by the Peabody Museum, which includes primary source material representing Indigenous communities from around the world. The position supervises interns, students, and LHT employees and reports to the Senior Archivist.
Job-Specific Responsibilities
· Prepares for and hosts research visits by faculty, visiting scholars, students, members of descendant communities and other heritage stakeholders, the general public, and museum staff. Responds to research requests in person and by email.
· Processes collections, including collection arrangement, re-housing, and description via TMS entries (The Museum System database), finding aids in ArchivesSpace, and MARC records for Hollis.
· Supervises and provides training for students, interns, or LHT employees in processing and working with archival collections.
· Provides education in using and handling primary sources and orientation to the collections held by the Museum. Plans and delivers presentations for visiting classes and groups.
· Recognizes cultural sensitivity considerations related to archival collections, applying understanding of SAA’s Protocols for Native American Archival Materials.
· Recognizes potential problems that may arise from working with unpublished and sensitive collections in areas such as copyright, privacy, confidentiality and ownership.
· Compiles and tracks research and use statistics, contributes information for grant proposals through research and data compilation.
· Contributes to the Archives department’s policy and procedures evaluation and development.
· Represents the Museum at regional or national meetings related to the archival and museum professions.
· Serves on museum working groups and committees as needed.
Basic Qualifications
MLS from ALA-Accredited program or equivalent degree, with a concentration in Archives. Minimum of 2 years professional experience working in an archives.
Additional Qualifications and Skills
· Experience providing reference services for archival collections
· Familiarity with museum and archival collections, including photographs and digital material, and knowledge of issues of handling, storage, and preservation of fragile archival collections.
· Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, and to serving the needs of diverse communities.
· Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse archives researchers and collaborators.
· Strong research skills; knowledge of relational database software such as TMS highly preferred.
· Strong organizational, planning, and project management skills; collaborative and effective teamwork; proven ability to work independently, establish goals, set priorities and carry out project tasks with limited direction.
Additional Information
All formal written offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.
The Peabody
The Peabody Museum 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.
Salary Range
$60,000-$70,000
Location
USA – MA – Cambridge
Time Status
Full-time
Union
00 – Non Union, Exempt or Temporary
Pre-Employment Screening
Criminal, Education, Identity
Schedule
Monday-Friday 9-5
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.
How to Apply:
Apply online at https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?partnerid=25240&siteid=5341&PageType=JobDetails&jobid=1571593