Collections Assistant (Digitizing)

16-Apr-2024

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

65327BR

Job Summary

The Collections Assistant (Digitization) works with the Peabody Museum’s Collections Technologies Department to digitize paper records as part of a three-year project to support NAGPRA (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) compliance.

Position Description

·         Perform tasks necessary to complete the digitization of all museum documentation related to the Peabody’s NAGPRA Department.

·         Operate PDF Scanners and tethered capture Nikon camera photography stations.

·         Process files to confirm with current Peabody digitization standards, which follow FADGI (Federal Agencies Digital Guidelines Initiative) and NARA (National Archives and Records Administration) guidelines.

·         Work with Collections Technologies Department staff to process files into The Museum System (TMS) and the Peabody’s digital assets servers.

·         Work with the Director of Collections Technologies department to develop systematic and productive workflows for accurate digitization.

·         Work closely with the Collections Assistant (Cataloging) to coordinate scanning and data entry aspects of the project.

·         Assist with maintaining data standards and accuracy in the database.

·         Perform other project-related tasks as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

Six or more months of scanning a/o digital photography experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

·         B.A. in museum studies, library and information science, anthropology, art history, or related field.

·         Experience with using a museum collections database required; experience with TMS helpful but not required.

·         Knowledge of museum cataloging standards and best practices required.

·         Understanding of and commitment to the ethical stewardship of museum collections in partnership with Indigenous and diaspora communities.

·         Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills with the ability to multitask, manage complex projects accurately and with meticulous attention to detail, and prioritize work in an environment with competing deadlines.

·         Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Additional Information

This is a 27 month term position reporting to the Collections Documentation Specialist.

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.

Work Format Details

This position is based primarily on-campus, in Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

About Us

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.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards ) 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.

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Cambridge

Job Code

403082 Curatorial Assistant III

Department

Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Appointment End Date

30-Jun-2026

Pre-Employment Screening

Identity

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.