Cataloguer

The Jewish Museum is seeking a Cataloguer for a 4 day/week, fixed-term, eighteen-month position. Under the supervision of the Assistant Director, Collections, they will examine and research objects in the museum’s collection including works of fine and decorative arts, ceremonial Judaica, archaeological artifacts, and new media in preparation for the reinstallation of the museum’s 3rd and 4th floor collection galleries. Additionally, the position will work on cataloguing objects for a separately funded project to help digitize the museum’s collection. The position requires demonstrated ability to catalogue objects and conduct art historical research, resolute concentration, careful handling of art objects, attention to detail, and accuracy in data entry and proof-reading.

Department: Program Administration
Reports to: Assistant Director, Collections
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Schedule: Part-time (4 days/ 28 hours per week); 18-month Fixed Term Position

Responsibilities:

  • Work closely with Collections Manager to catalogue objects in the collection— examine objects by precisely measuring, identifying parts and accessories, recognizing materials, write accurate condition reports, and locate and note signature, inscriptions, markings, and historic labels in preparation of collection reinstall and for digitization.
  • As part of the larger reinstallation team that includes Collections and Registration staff, keep track of object movement and assist with object handling as necessary.
  • For the digitization project, help maintain digital records for all objects using museum-approved data-entry standard in TMS by adding cataloguing information and new research, tracking locations, updating exhibition history, etc.
  • Researching the museum records and other primary and secondary sources to establish accurate acquisition information, artist/maker’s biography, object date and titles, ex-collections/provenance, published references, and exhibition history.
  • Correspond with artists/makers, donors, dealers, vendors, auction houses, and galleries to ascertain or verify information about the object.
  • Create and update files and documentation for all objects in the collection including archival object files, conservation reports, and historic records.
  • Help Collections Manager prepare or proof-read label copy for exhibitions, publications, website, education, and other purposes, as needed.
  • Work to identify problematic object records and help resolve numbering discrepancies.
  • As part of the Collections Management team, work to keep the storage areas organized and make sure objects are put back in their correct locations as well as assisting with object photo shoots.

Requirements:

  • Degree or equivalent experience in a related field such as Art History, Museum Studies, Archaeology, or Conservation preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to catalogue objects and conduct art-historical research
  • Strong research skills and familiarity with metadata and cataloguing standards
  • Strong computer skills including working knowledge of TMS preferable
  • Art handling experience a plus
  • Knowledge of foreign language(s) helpful

Salary Range for Position: $48,000 - 52,000

Send Resume with Cover Letter To:

Director, Human Resources
The Jewish Museum
1109 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10128

212.423.3232

The Jewish Museum is committed to diversifying its staff and encourages individuals of all abilities and ethnic, racial, and religious backgrounds to apply for this position. The Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic prohibited by applicable law.

This is a unionized position with covered employees represented by Local 2110, UAW, AFL-CIO.

The Jewish Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer.