Project Cataloger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About 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.

• 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.

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

• 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

• 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).

• 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.

• 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 collections.
• 20/20 corrected or uncorrected vision and auditory ability required for detailed cataloging work.