Processing Assistant (part-time)

The Massachusetts Historical Society in Boston, Mass. seeks a part-time (17-21 hours per week) Processing Assistant to work in its Collections Services Department.

The Processing Assistant will assist the Processing Archivists and Senior Cataloger with tasks associated with housing and describing manuscript and photograph collections. Duties may include: creating preliminary inventories and box lists, unfolding and removing documents from enclosures, arranging manuscript and photographic materials, foldering or other types of re-housing, measuring volumes for cases, and conducting research and writing biographical and historical sketches. The work requires an extreme attention to detail and the ability to juggle multiple projects at one time. The Processing Assistant reports to the Senior Processing Archivist.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in library science or archives program, or the completion of archives coursework toward the degree
• Completion of an archives internship or similar hands-on experience with manuscript collections
• Clear handwriting
• The ability to read cursive handwriting; note: finalists will be required to take a transcription test
• Superb attention to detail
• Commitment to contributing to a collegial work environment
• The ability to lift cartons of 40 lbs. or more

Pluses:

• Coursework or a demonstrated interest in American history

Compensation: $20 per hour

To apply, please email cover letter, résumé, and names of three references to the Senior Processing Archivist, Susan Martin, at smartin@masshist.org.

Preference will be given to candidates whose application materials are received by February 10, 2023.