Archivist

About Our Organization

Founded in 1968, the Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. It is a site for the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society.

Job Summary

The Archivist will work under the direction of the Director of Collection and Exhibitions and in consort with the Associate Curator, Permanent Collection; Registrar; and Collections Database Manager to manage and further develop the long-term care and accessibility of the Archives. The Archivist will continue the folder-level organization of historic assets; provide access to materials as requested for research, publications, the website, and collection care preparations in support of the reopening of the Museum; and coordinate established record retention policies. They will manage Archives fellows and interns.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Continue to process a large, multi-format collection of uncatalogued and unidentified assets to the folder level.
• Continue establishing descriptive finding aids and container lists to create inventories for all historic materials.
• Facilitate research access to assets with mediated supervision.
• Facilitate internal research requests and special projects as requested.
• Support consistent use of record retention policies. Partner cross departmentally to expand policies and maintenance.
• Continue to selectively digitize the archive and establish a sustainable long-term digitization plan together in collaboration with the Collections Database Manager and Chief Program Officer.
• Manage Archives fellows.
• Monitor Archives email and respond to external reference requests

Education and Experience 

• MS in Library Science with focus on Archives
• BA with an area of concentration in history, particularly African American History and or Mid-Century to Contemporary Art History.
• 3- 5 years of experience managing institutional archives, preferably at an art museum

Physical Demands 

• Ability to walk/stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to climb stairs and stoop/kneel to perform security duties.
• Ability to (five-day work week in person).

Work Environment 

• This position is a non-exempt position and may require working more than forty (40) hours during a work week.
• A fast-paced environment.
• Works with a group of team members within Collections Management – a critical department formed of Curatorial, Learning & Engagement, and Public Programs, – and other museum staff.

Compensation

$70,000 to $75,000 per year

Salary is commensurate with experience within the guidelines of a small not-for-profit. A competitive benefits package is provided, including medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance, a retirement account, and substantial vacation time.

Application Instructions

Please upload your resume and cover letter to your application. No phone calls or emails, please.  

Please note that while careful consideration will be given to each submission, only a select number of applicants will be contacted due to the volume of interest.

The Studio Museum in Harlem is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, gender identification, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage folks of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. At the Studio Museum, we are committed to having an inclusive and transparent environment where every voice is heard and acknowledged. We embrace our differences, and know that our diverse team is a strength that drives our success.  

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.