Archives Assistant (Part-Time)

About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra. 

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Why Join Us

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits to all employees including: 

• Staff offers for discount tickets
• We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2023 staff video!

Job Description

Pay/Hours: $20.00 per hour, approximately 20 hours per week

The Kennedy Center's Archives is charged with preserving and promoting the institution's nearly 50-year history as part of a broader, multi-year institutional plan to reimagine the patron and visitor experience. We are currently seeking a part-time, temporary Processing Assistant (Archives Assistant) to ensure that essential collections are being processed in a timely manner, specifically programs and photographs, which are frequently in demand by both internal and external users.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with general surveying, accessioning, and/or processing of physical and digital materials as directed by Archives staff 
• Collect, index, and process digital and physical programs for current season on a rolling basis 
• Collect, index, and process window cards for current season on an ongoing basis  
• Monitor temperature/humidity conditions for archival storage spaces, including maintaining dehumidifiers as needed and providing weekly updates on trends based on data from dataloggers 
• Provide research and scanning support for request fulfillment, as directed 
• Metadata projects such as adding supplemental description to legacy event program collection index and/or ArchivesSpace data entry 
• Other duties assigned, including working with volunteers and general data entry  

Key Qualifications

• Basic computer literacy; knowledge of Microsoft Excel
• Excellent attention to detail
• Strong work ethic and organization skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and colleagues
• Ability to carefully handle fragile materials
• Ability to reach overhead, climb on stools/ladders, lift up to 40 lbs
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, and feels empowered to ask questions as needed
• Experience in a library, museum, or historical society setting