Collections Assistant for Archival Processing (Temporary) - NYC 

(April 29, 2026)

Position Title - Collections Assistant for Archival Processing (Temporary) - NYC

Supervisor Title (All entry and mid-level position supervisors should be qualified, professional archivists.)- Curator of Architecture

Position Type - Full-time, term

Benefits - No

Hourly wage range - $25 - $30

Overview:

The MIT Museum seeks a Collections Assistant to support the initial processing of a large corporate architectural archive of one of the leading American architects of the 20th century. This position will assist with the retrieval, assessment, sorting, cleaning, packing, and documentation of the collection in New York City in preparation for its transfer to the MIT Museum.

This is a temporary, full-time position (40 hours per week) for a twelve-month term. The Collections Assistant will be expected to work during normal operating hours, Monday through Friday, in-person in New York, NY (Manhattan). Work will be performed under the direction of the Assistant Curator of Architecture.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

Assist with the processing of a large archival collection of manuscripts and architectural drawings (approximately 2,500 linear feet of boxed materials and 2,500 rolls of drawings)

Perform physical processing tasks such as fastener removal, interleaving, reorganizing, rehousing, and packing archives using approved methods and materials

Assist with the general sorting of drawings and written materials based on their content

Assist with light cleaning of archival materials using approved methods and materials

Use approved technologies to produce inventories, monitor tasks and workflows, and track and record container locations

Provide ongoing support in the general maintenance and organization of work areas

Performs other collections related duties as required

Experience/Skills Required:

Minimum 2 years of experience in a museum or archive handling and processing archival collections and/or artifacts of varying materiality and fragility

Highly organized, detail-oriented, responsible, and reliable

Experience with word-processing software and spreadsheets (Excel)

Ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively on long-term projects with minimal supervision

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Knowledge of museum and/or archive standards and best practices in the care, handling, and packing of archives and drawings

Excellent interpersonal skills as well as the ability to work well and communicate effectively with a diverse group of individuals including consultants and vendors

Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted

Ability to stand for long periods and perform repetitive tasks

Ability to move items using ladders, carts, and other tools

Ability to safely and dexterously handle archival materials varying in size, materiality, and fragility, including large architectural drawings and other large plans

Educational Requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Museum Studies, Art History, Library Science (especially with archival focus) or related field

Experience working with architectural archives or other plan collections

Knowledge of modern architectural history

Work Environment:

Typical office or administrative workspaces; archive processing space.

About the Job and Salary:

The Collections Assistant will be employed through MITemps, a temporary agency that works with MIT. The Collections Assistant is not an employee of MIT

The job pay rate is $24 – $32 per hour.

https://mitmuseum.mit.edu/connection/careers/collections-assistant-for-archival-processing-temporary

Cover letter that describes your qualifications. Please include descriptions of your experience working in a museum or archive processing and handling collections. Please specify experience with architecture, plan, or map collections (if any).

Resume

List of 3 references with contact information to collections.museum@mit.edu