Collections Assistant

Institution: Harvard Art Museums / Harvard University
Location: Cambridge & Somerville, MA, USA

The Harvard Art Museums are seeking two Collections Assistants to join the Collections Access Department, supporting the Art Study Center—one of the most extensive and accessible study collections in North America. This is a public-facing, on-site role combining art handling, collections care, and visitor engagement in a dynamic museum environment.

Reporting to the Manager of Collections Operations, the role focuses on the safe movement, storage, preparation, and documentation of artworks across galleries, storage areas, study rooms, and photography spaces. The position also involves supervising classes and study appointments, providing object handling guidance to visitors, and ensuring compliance with Art Study Center policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely handle, move, install, and document artworks across museum facilities
• Prepare artworks for viewing appointments, conservation, photography, storage, and transit
• Monitor and support classes and individual study sessions in the Art Study Center
• Track and update art movements, storage, shipping, and handling notes using TMS
• Coordinate with curatorial, conservation, registrar, and collections staff
• Support acquisitions processes, including unpacking, housing, documentation, and staging
• Maintain storage spaces and participate in quarterly collections audits

Employment Details

• Full-time, on-site position (35 hours/week)
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00–16:00 (occasional evenings/weekends may be required)
• Salary Grade: 054 (per Harvard University salary scales)
• Contract: Permanent, non-exempt
• Hiring: Two positions available

Eligibility & Qualifications

• Minimum two years of professional art handling or related experience (required)
• Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred (Art History, Museum Studies, Studio Art, or Design)
• Experience working with the public in museums, galleries, or similar settings preferred
• Familiarity with TMS and museum collections workflows is an asset
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks