PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT ASSISTANT (Part-Time; 21 months)

The-Morgan-Library-; New York (NY); On-site; USD 36,000 - 52,000; Part time

Job summary

The Morgan Library & Museum in New York is seeking a part-time, project-based Project Assistant in the Department of Photography. The position runs from December 2026 through May 2028 and focuses on processing a major new photography acquisition and coordinating related workflows.

Key duties include intake, object research, record creation, and reference photography, plus moving objects and organizing storage spaces.

Qualifications

• BA in art history or related field (or equivalent experience); MA with a focus on the history of photography and a knowledge of photographic processes preferred.
• Knowledge of descriptive cataloging standards and best practices
• Collections care experience, preferably in a museum, special collections library, or other cultural institution
• Familiarity with The Museum System (TMS) or similar museum database; familiarity with the MARC formats and Integrated Library Systems (ILS) a plus.
• Acquaintance with or aptitude in safe handling of original collection objects
• Proficiency in research, writing, and verbal communication
• Strong organizational skills and rigorous attention to detail, with ability to create and maintain precise records
• Strong time management skills and the ability to work both independently and with a team
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift boxes up to 40 pounds, and safely handle large-format frames (with assistance provided as needed).

Responsibilities

• Complete intake procedures and conduct object research.
• Create records and generate reference photography.
• Manage object moves and assist with organizing storage spaces.
• Maintain object documentation in artist files.
• Collaborate with curatorial staff and Conservation, Exhibition and Collection Management teams.
• Assist Imaging & Rights and Collection Information as needed.

Skills

Research skills

Writing

Verbal communication

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Independent work

Teamwork

Education

BA in art history or related field

MA in history of photography (preferred)

Tools

The Museum System (TMS)

MARC formats

Integrated Library Systems (ILS)

Job description

Description

The Morgan Library & Museum invites applications for a part-time, project-based Project Assistant position in the Department of Photography. Running from December 2026 through May 2028, this role focuses on processing a major new photography acquisition and coordinating related workflows.

Key responsibilities include completing intake procedures, conducting object research, creating records, and generating reference photography. The Assistant also manages and executes object moves, assists with organizing storage spaces, maintains object documentation in artist files, and performs other collection-related tasks as assigned. This position works closely with curatorial staff as well as colleagues in Conservation, Exhibition and Collection Management, Imaging & Rights, and Collection Information.

QUALIFICATIONS

• BA in art history or a related field (or equivalent experience); MA with a focus on the history of photography and a knowledge of photographic processes preferred.
• Knowledge of descriptive cataloging standards and best practices
• Collections care experience, preferably in a museum, special collections library, or other cultural institution
• Familiarity with The Museum System (TMS) or similar museum database required; familiarity with the MARC formats and Integrated Library Systems (ILS) a plus.
• Acquaintance with or aptitude in safe handling of original collection objects
• Proficiency in research, writing, and verbal communication
• Strong organizational skills and rigorous attention to detail, with ability to create and maintain precise records
• Strong time management skills and the ability to work both independently and with a team
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift boxes up to 40 pounds, and safely handle large-format frames (with assistance provided as needed).

COMPENSATION

$32 per hour

The Morgan Library & Museum receives many applications and inquiries for employment. Unfortunately, we are not able to respond to all of them. Due to the high volume of applicants, we can contact only those candidates whose skills and background best fit our needs.

Important to Note

EEO Statement

The Morgan is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to complying with all federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity laws. The Morgan provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, marital status, military or veteran status, domestic violence victim status or any other basis prohibited by applicable federal, state, and/or local laws.

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.