Collections Assistant

Brown University; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University is seeking a Collections Assistant for the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology in Providence. The role involves documenting, re-housing, packing/unpacking, and tracking archaeological, ethnographic, and archival collections during a major move from Bristol, RI to Providence, RI.

The position is a full-time term role funded by the Transforming the Haffenreffer Museum grant, ending August 31, 2027.

Qualifications

• BA/BS in Museum Studies, Anthropology, Archaeology, Art History, or related field or equivalent experience.
• At least one year's experience in a professional collection management or registration setting.
• Experience using a collection management system; MuseumPlusRia preferred.

Responsibilities

• Document, assess, rehouse, pack/unpack, and track collections.
• Support move of Haffenreffer Museum collections from Bristol to Providence.
• Assist with exhibitions, teaching, research, and loans.

Skills

Excellent organizational skills

Strong communication

Attention to detail

Ability to lift 50 lbs

Education

BA/BS in Museum Studies/Anthropology/Archaeology/Art History or related field

Tools

MuseumPlusRia

Job description

Collections Assistant

Brown University

Job Description

About Brown

Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.

Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more. To learn about Brown University's benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page for further information.

About the Opportunity

The Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology is Brown University's teaching and research museum. A resource across the university, we inspire creative and critical thinking about culture by fostering interdisciplinary understanding of the material world.

Responsibilities

The Collections Assistant reports to the Collections Manager/Registrar and assists the collections team to document, assess, rehouse, pack/unpack, and track archaeological, ethnographic, and archival collections. This work supports the move of HMA collections from Bristol, RI to a new location in Providence, RI, and routine use of objects and collections in exhibitions, teaching, research, and loans.

This position is a full-time term position under the Transforming the Haffenreffer Museum grant project funded by the Mellon Foundation, which is scheduled to end on August 31, 2027.

Qualifications

Education

• The successful candidate will have a B.A./B.S. degree in Museum Studies, Anthropology, Archaeology, Art History, or related field or equivalent experience; and at least one year's experience in a professional collection management or registration setting.

Experience

• Basic knowledge of preventive conservation strategies for cultural property in storage, on exhibit, in transit, or in use.
• Experience using a collection management system required. Knowledge of MuseumPlusRia preferred.

Job Competencies

• Excellent organizational and communication skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle works of art, use simple hand tools, meet deadlines.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to comfortably use equipment such as moveable shelving and step ladders.
• Awareness of issues of cultural sensitivity surrounding cultural heritage and collections.

Salary Grade

7

Additional Information

All applicants are asked to submit a cover letter and resume.

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Benefits of Working at Brown

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date

2026-08-18

Job Posting Title

Collections Assistant

Department

Haffenreffer Museum

Grade

Grade 7

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Position Work Location

Onsite

Submission Guidelines

The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.

Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.

Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact [e-mail].

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.