Part-Time Student Ethnographic Collections Assistant, Museum of Archaeology

IU MUSEUM OF ARCHAEOLOGY & ANT (BL-MAA-IUBLA)

The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology cares for the collections of the former Glenn Black Laboratory of Archaeology and the Mathers Museum of World Cultures. The diverse collections in our care relate to dynamic societies from around the world and contain over 5 million objects of cultural heritage and archaeological significance. The Museum tells the human stories behind these objects and uplifts the source and descendant communities connected to them, providing a gateway to the rich cultural heritage of humanity "right from the heart of Indiana University (IU) Bloomington's campus.

The Indiana University Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (IUMAA) is seeking motivated and detail-oriented undergraduate/graduate students to join our ethnography collections team as Collection Assistants. This position provides on‑the‑job training and hands‑on experience in museum collections management, conservation, and documentation, following best practices established in combination with community‑led stewardship and culturally sensitive protocols. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in cultural heritage, museum careers, or applied research.

All training is provided, and no prior museum experience is necessary.

• Assists with inventory and cataloging objects using the museum’s collections database (File Maker Pro).
• Learns proper object handling techniques and follows conservation standards when working with sensitive materials.
• Performs basic preventive conservation tasks, such as condition checks, cleaning, and rehousing with archival materials.
• Photographs objects and updates digital records for access, research, and exhibits.
• Supports ongoing collections‑based projects, including exhibitions, research requests, and NAGPRA‑related documentation.
• Participates in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and environmental monitoring.
• Maintains clear, accurate notes and workspace organization in a team environment.

• Currently enrolled as a IU undergraduate or graduate student in Anthropology, Folklore and Ethnomusicology, Curatorship, Art History, Arts Administration, Archaeology, History, Information and Library Science or a related field.

• Interest in museum work, cultural heritage, or collections management.
• Attention to detail, patience, and willingness to learn new procedures.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

This position requires the ability to lift and move boxes up to 40 pounds and occasionally use rolling stairs to reach shelves above 6 feet. It involves both sedentary work and long periods of standing.

Location:

Bloomington, Indiana

Compensation: $15.00 per hour.

Hours:

Flexible between 10–18 hours per week.

• Health and dental insurance options available.
• Health savings account options.
• Retirement plan options.
• Tuition subsidy for employees and family members taking IU courses.
• Paid holidays and paid winter break.
• Generous paid time off.
• Paid leave for new parents and IU‑sponsored volunteer events.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).

Job Information:

Career Level:

Part Time Employee. FLSA:
Nonexempt. Job Function:
Part Time Employee. Job Family:
Part Time Student Employee.

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Application details:
This posting is scheduled to close at 11:59 pm EST on the advertised Close Date. Applicants must apply within 5 business days of the Posted Date.

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