Curatorial Assistant II

Job Summary

The Curatorial Assistant II reports to the Curatorial Associate in the Department of Invertebrate Zoology within the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ). The Museum of Comparative Zoology and the Department of Invertebrate Zoology aim to be inclusive environments that welcome colleagues of all backgrounds to work in a respectful and collegial environment. Candidates will interact with researchers, students, and the public and we seek candidates who value all these interactions.

Auto req ID

61407BR

Job Code

403079 Curatorial Assistant II

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Cambridge

Business Title

Curatorial Assistant II

Sub-Unit

Sciences

Salary Grade

051

Time Status

Part-time

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Basic Qualifications

Coursework in biology, museum studies or related field. Minimum of 1 year of experience in a natural history museum collection.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Knowledge of general invertebrate taxonomy, type species concepts and general uses of museum collections required. Specialized courses pertaining to the collection preferred. Knowledge of computer databases and good computer skills needed. Experience and proficiency with spreadsheets and database software. Experience with museum specimen imaging software, and photo editing software. Detail-oriented with a high level of organization. Ability to handle a variety of tasks, shifting priorities, and to work independently as well as part of a team. Ideal candidates will have excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Additional Information

In order to be considered for this position, a cover letter and resume must be submitted.

***All formal written offers will be made by FAS HR.

We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

With rich collections comprised of more than 21 million extant and fossil invertebrate and vertebrate specimens, the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) at Harvard University has been a center for research and education focused on advancing evolutionary biology and biodiversity science since its founding in 1859.

Department

Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ)

Pre-Employment Screening

Criminal, Identity

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 17.5 hours; daily hours to be determined.

Job Function

Museum

Position Description

Maintains the order and is responsible for assisting in the curation, digitization and storage of a large collection of dry and fluid preserved invertebrates (expect insects, mollusks and fossils); makes routine identifications, requiring specialized knowledge of differences between marine, freshwater and terrestrial invertebrates; verifies taxonomic names utilizing the departmental libraries and other resources; catalogs and enters relevant taxonomic, image, and collections data into MCZbase; rehouses specimens according to modern standards; organization of specimens within general collection; assists in preparing and maintaining specimen loans; serves as a source of information on the collection to visiting scholars, faculty, staff, and students; maintains clerical functions incidental to curatorial activities; performs related duties as required. This work is done in the context of a collaborative and supportive team in the Department of Invertebrate Zoology. This position is part-time at 17.50 hours per week.

School/Unit

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to stand for extended periods, walk, climb, or balance, stoop, reach, kneel, and/or crouch, often on uneven terrain or wet surfaces. Must be able to lift and/or move objects weighing 50 pounds.

Working Conditions

Office and collection/lab setting.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

Work Format

Hybrid (partially on-site, partially remote)