Collections Assistant

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Job Summary:

The Collections Assistant (NAGPRA) supports the management, cataloging, organization, rehousing, handling, and movement of archaeological and ethnographic collections as required for compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) at the Peabody Museum. This project expedites the implementation of the repatriation of Native American ancestors, funerary belongings, and cultural items subject to the Act and its associated federal regulations. This is a one-year term position reporting to the Collections Manager. 

Job Specific Responsibilities:

• Assist with all aspects of collections management of the Peabody Museum’s collections, subject to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).

• Assess, properly handle, and appropriately house objects of Indigenous culture.

• Complete physical inventories of NAGPRA collections and enter associated data into the Museum’s database (TMS).

• Lend collections management assistance to the registration and conservation departments with the movement and packing of NAGPRA collections. May assist the osteology/paleoanthropology department with NAGPRA-related collection movement.

• Provides collections management support to NAGPRA department staff during on-site and remote consultations.

• Provides data entry, list, and report assistance using TMS.

Basic Qualifications:

•  Two years of museum collections management experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• B.A. in archaeology, anthropology, or museum studies preferred.
• Two years of museum collection management or registration experience.
• Familiarity with museum cataloging procedures, inventory methods, object handling required, and knowledge of NAGPRA processes preferred. Experience working with Indigenous communities preferred. Accuracy, attention to detail, flexibility, and initiative are required.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal
• Other Information: This is a 12-month term position with possibility of renewal. All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources. 

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 the 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.

Work Format Details

This position is based on-site at a Harvard campus location. 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. 

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 053. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes. 

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, sex, ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy. Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.