Collections Development Assistant, Harvard University Archives, (Cambridge, MA)

Posted July 15, 2026

Description

Under the direction of and working closely with the Associate University Archivist for Collection Development and Records Management Services (AUACDRMS), the Collection Development Assistant will support building the permanent collections of the Harvard University Archives, the primary repository for Harvard’s institutional records and faculty papers. The Collection Development Assistant will play a key role in ensuring appropriate stewardship of vital institutional records by packing and stabilizing, inventorying and describing, and accessioning records from central Harvard administrative offices. As needed, the Collection Development Assistant will support records management and other collection building activities for the department.

Responsibilities

Assist Archives staff in packing collections onsite at offices.
Prepare detailed folder and/or box level inventories and ensure appropriate housing and stabilization of contents, noting preservation concerns.
Draft appraisal memos and accession paperwork.
As needed, support CDRMS team members in the acquisition, appraisal, and accessioning of other collection categories, including faculty personal archives.
As assigned, fulfill records management refile and retrieval requests.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in any subject
Enrollment in an ALA-accredited Library and Information Science program, with successful completion of archives coursework
Demonstrated discretion in handling confidential and/or sensitive information.
General knowledge of the principles of archival arrangement and description.
Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
Must be able to travel independently to other off-campus locations as needed.
Must be able to regularly lift 40 lb. records storage boxes

Hours and Compensation

Position End Date: June 30th, 2027.

Schedule: Less-than-half-time (LHT) position – 14 hours a week during business hours (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm)

Salary: $20.00 per hour

How to Apply

Please submit resume and cover letter to [email protected].

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.