Organizer Information
The Harvard Peabody Museum Collections Assistant supports the Collections Department in maintaining the highest standards of stewardship for over 1.2 million objects. This specialized administrative and technical Job is central to the physical care, documentation, and logistical management of ethnographic and archaeology collections at Harvard University. Harvard University is one of the world's most prestigious academic institutions, and its Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology is among the oldest and most renowned museums focused on anthropological collections. Founded in 1866, the Peabody Museum houses over 1.2 million objects and extensive photographic and archival records. The museum’s mission is to steward these collections with ethical care, fostering research, education, and community engagement. Working within this environment provides staff with access to world-class academic resources and a collaborative community dedicated to cultural heritage and the repatriation of ancestral remains and belongings.
Title & Description
Collections Assistant – Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology
This position is a specialised administrative and technical role focused on the physical care, documentation, and logistical management of ethnographic and archaeological collections. The primary purpose of this role is to support the Collections Department in maintaining high standards of stewardship for Harvard's vast cultural holdings. The selected candidate will experience a fast-paced environment involving the movement of sensitive cultural materials, database management, and collaboration with researchers and Indigenous community representatives.
The Role Overview
- Salary: Commensurate with experience (Grade 52).
- Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent (Professional staff).
- Reporting to: Collections Manager.
- Fee: N/A (Salaried position).
- Programme: Collections Management and Stewardship.
Position & Tasks
- Executing the safe handling, movement, and rehousing of diverse museum objects.
- Assisting with the inventory and cataloguing of archaeological and ethnographic materials.
- Updating and maintaining digital records within the Museum’s collections management system (TMS - The Museum System).
- Supporting researchers and visiting scholars during collection access visits.
- Assisting in the preparation of objects for loans, exhibitions, and repatriation efforts.
- Collaborating with the conservation department to monitor environmental conditions and pest management.
Categories
Museum Studies, Archaeology, Ethnography, Collections Management, Cultural Heritage, and Archives.
Eligibility
- General: Open to national and international applicants with valid U.S. work authorisation.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; a degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or Museum Studies is highly preferred.
- Experience: Previous experience in a museum setting, library, or archive, specifically with object handling or database entry.
- Physical: Ability to lift moderately heavy museum crates (up to 40 lbs) and navigate collections storage areas.
Program Benefits
- Professional Development: Access to Harvard’s extensive network of libraries, workshops, and academic lectures.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Financial Security: Retirement plans and tuition assistance programs.
- Stewardship Impact: The opportunity to contribute directly to the ethical management and repatriation of global cultural heritage.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Resume/CV: Highlighting relevant museum or administrative experience.
- Cover Letter/Motivation Letter: Explaining your interest in collections stewardship and cultural heritage.
- References: Contact information for professional references.
- Personal Information: Completed through the Harvard University Careers portal.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: Open until filled (Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early submission is recommended).
- Anticipated Start Date: Early 2026
Location
Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
Additional Details
Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer and particularly encourages applications from individuals from historically underrepresented groups. The Peabody Museum is currently engaged in significant work related to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA); therefore, a sensitivity to the ethical complexities of cultural collections is essential.