Project Cataloger

Job DetailsLevel: ExperiencedJob Location: Senator John Heinz History Center - Pittsburgh, PA 15222Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: Graduate DegreeJob Shift: DayAbout the Senator John Heinz History Center

The Senator John Heinz History Center is a Smithsonian-affiliated Museum and a first-day Pittsburgh attraction that presents compelling stories from American history with a Western Pennsylvania connection, all in an interactive and engaging environment for visitors of all ages.  The largest history museum in Pennsylvania, the AAM-accredited History Center attracts large and diverse audiences to its 370,000-square-foot facility in Pittsburgh’s historic Strip District that includes six floors of long-term and changing exhibition space along with spectacular spaces for unique events.

The History Center’s family of museums includes the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, a dynamic museum-within-a-museum; the Fort Pitt Museum in Point State Park; and Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village, a National Historic Landmark located in Avella, Washington County, Pa. The History Center also leads a partnership of more than 125 regional historical societies, museums, and organizations dedicated to preserving local history – the History Center Affiliates Program.

A popular destination for families and visitors to our region, the History Center attracts more than 250,000 visitors annually and reaches millions through virtual programs and digital outreach. The History Center was recently recognized as America’s #1 History Museum by USA TODAY and “Pittsburgh’s Best Museum” by Pittsburgh Magazine.

About the Position

The Senator John Heinz History Center is seeking a detail-oriented and highly motivated Project Cataloger to support the cataloging, documentation, and care of materials related to the Rauh Jewish Archives, including the October 27 Tribute Collection.

The materials stewarded by the Project Cataloger are foundational to the History Center’s exhibitions, research, and public programs. Thorough processing of the October 27 Tribute Collection ensures long-term care, accessibility, and readiness for loans and research requests. The role requires focus, accuracy, sensitivity, and dedication to preserving an important and frequently accessed collection.

This is a temporary, full-time, two-year position within the Museum Team’s Registration Department and reports to the Director of Collections.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Collections Cataloging:

Catalog objects, documents, and artifacts within the October 27th Tribute Collection and other Rauh Jewish Archives collections.
Perform object numbering, description, photography, data entry, and research.
Prepare and maintain collection records and files.
Assist with packing, moving, and storage of objects; light cleaning as needed.

Loan Support:

Catalog and complete condition reports for objects requested for loans.
Serve as a courier for outgoing loans when required.

Administrative Tasks:

Support routine office work including copying, correspondence, and filing.

Why Work at the History Center?

Rewarding, mission-driven work that makes an impact in the community
Smithsonian-affiliated Museum located in Pittsburgh’s vibrant and historic Strip District
Voted the #1 history museum in the nation by USA Today
Voted Best Museum in Pittsburgh by Pittsburgh Magazine
Highly professional, collegial staff and dedicated volunteers
Located in Pittsburgh, one of America’s “most livable” cities
Dynamic workplace in Pittsburgh’s historic Strip District
Flexible work schedule, including potential for hybrid work
Full benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
403(B) retirement plans with employer match
Paid time off (vacation, personal, and sick days)
Paid Parental Leave
Nine (9) paid holidays
Company paid life insurance / LTD
Wellness and Employee Assistance Program
Discounts in the Cafe and Museum Shop
Public transportation and parking options nearby

RequirementsMinimum Requirements

MA degree in History, Art History, American Studies, Museum Studies, Jewish Studies, Religious Studies, or a related field.
Valid driver’s license.
Ability to obtain PA Act 33/34 clearances (Criminal & Child Abuse).

Preferred Experience

Familiarity with standard museum registration and cataloging methods.
Training in object and fine art handling.
Experience with The Museum System (TMS), Microsoft Word, and Excel.
Knowledge of Jewish culture including Hebrew language desirable but not preferred.

Skills & Abilities

Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
Ability to plan and prioritize tasks across multiple projects.
Commitment to established departmental practices and policies.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 30 lbs and occasionally push/pull up to 50 lbs in when working with collecti