Peabody Essex Museum Header

Collection Specialist

Rowley, MA
Full-Time

Job Description

The Peabody Essex Museum, one of the most dynamic art and culture museums in the country, is seeking a temporary Collection Specialist. The Collection Specialist role will provide a wide range of services related to the access, care, and handling of the museum's collections. Working independently as well as in support of the Collection Stewards, candidates will need to think critically, identify issues ahead of time, and creatively problem solve on a daily basis. This work will entail gallery and historic house cleaning and maintenance, providing access to collection objects for curatorial and external researchers, supporting Collection Preparatory activities in both logistic and art handling, as well as executing tasks in support of other Collection activity as assigned by Senior Collection Manager.

We are looking for a candidate with strong administrative skills and the ability to participate and communicate effectively and collaboratively with cross-functional teams. Solid computer skills using Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and data entry in MuseumPlus or similar collection management database preferred. This project aims to improve access to collections both physically and digitally. Digital image capture and post production experience is preferred. The hourly range for this role is $21.63 to $24.07 commensurate with experience. Please note this is a temporary position for approximately 6 months.

A BA in Art History, Museum Studies or related program or the equivalent combination of education and experience is required. The ability to lift 50 lbs is required. This role is based in Rowley, MA with regular travel to Salem, MA. Access to a vehicle for travel between sites is essential. The Collection Specialist must have one to three years experience in an art museum or gallery setting in collection management. Demonstrated object handling, packing, rehousing, and documentation skills are essential as well as the physical ability for collections handling. Familiarity with storage facilities is a plus.

PDN-a1d66654-5fd0-450a-8271-da870493c93f

The Peabody Essex Museum, one of the most dynamic art and culture museums in the country, is seeking a temporary Collection Specialist. The Collection Specialist role will provide a wide range of services related to the access, care, and handling of the museum's collections. Working independently as well as in support of the Collection Stewards, candidates will need to think critically, identify issues ahead of time, and creatively problem solve on a daily basis. This work will entail gallery and historic house cleaning and maintenance, providing access to collection objects for curatorial and external researchers, supporting Collection Preparatory activities in both logistic and art handling, as well as executing tasks in support of other Collection activity as assigned by Senior Collection Manager.

We are looking for a candidate with strong administrative skills and the ability to participate and communicate effectively and collaboratively with cross-functional teams. Solid computer skills using Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and data entry in MuseumPlus or similar collection management database preferred. This project aims to improve access to collections both physically and digitally. Digital image capture and post production experience is preferred. The hourly range for this role is $21.63 to $24.07 commensurate with experience. Please note this is a temporary position for approximately 6 months.

A BA in Art History, Museum Studies or related program or the equivalent combination of education and experience is required. The ability to lift 50 lbs is required. This role is based in Rowley, MA with regular travel to Salem, MA. Access to a vehicle for travel between sites is essential. The Collection Specialist must have one to three years experience in an art museum or gallery setting in collection management. Demonstrated object handling, packing, rehousing, and documentation skills are essential as well as the physical ability for collections handling. Familiarity with storage facilities is a plus.

PDN-a1d66654-5fd0-450a-8271-da870493c93f

About Peabody Essex Museum

PEM boldly honors creativity as a nourishing force in people’s lives.

We offer thought-provoking experiences of the arts, humanities and sciences to activate understanding of our shared humanity and to empower imagination and learning through experimentation. We steward, build and make our collections accessible to encourage appreciation of the interconnected histories and creativity of people in our complex, always changing world.

As a museum that celebrates creativity to advance our shared humanity, we aspire to be an inclusive, equitable cultural organization that motivates, connects, and empowers people through inquiry, empathy, and dialogue. We strive to create and sustain a sense of belonging and to nurture our ability to build bridges.

We acknowledge that the role of global trade in PEM’s predecessor organizations warrants careful consideration. We commit to being aware and appreciative of differences in order to prevent overlooking, hurting, or excluding anyone. We will continue to work purposefully to remove barriers, whether physical, emotional, or social, so that PEM offers everyone welcoming spaces and experiences where they feel seen, heard, and treated with dignity and respect.

Everyone at PEM has a role to play in bringing this commitment to life. We will use this commitment statement as a guide in our ongoing work, which includes sharing the accomplishments, setbacks, and challenges of our DEIA journey.

Related Jobs

Continue to Apply

Peabody Essex Museum would like you to finish the application on their website.

Apply For This Job
Peabody Essex Museum
Collection Specialist
Peabody Essex Museum
Rowley, MA
May 22, 2026
Full-time
Your Information
First Name *
Last Name *
Email Address *
This email belongs to another account. Please use a diferent email address or Sign In.
Zip Code *
Password *
Confirm Password *
Create your Profile from your Resume
By clicking the Apply button, you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy and consent to receive emails from us about job opportunities, career resources, and other relevant updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Continue to Apply

Peabody Essex Museum would like you to finish the application on their website.

©2026 TalentAlly.
Powered by TalentAlly.