Job Description

A fine art and commercial photographer's studio is seeking an Archivist to join their team. This multifaceted role spans four areas of responsibility: Archivist, Registrar, Exhibition Producer, and Book Producer. Working in close collaboration with the artist and a small, dedicated team, the Archivist is responsible for preserving and managing a 50+ year photographic archive, overseeing fine art print production, producing site-specific exhibitions around the world, and managing the end-to-end production of photography books. This position requires someone who is highly organized, technically proficient, with a strong attention to detail. The ideal candidate brings 5+ years of experience in an artist studio, gallery, or institutional collection setting, and thrives in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.

Archivist Manage a physical and digital photographic archive spanning 50+ years

• Continue the organization and maintenance of off-site storage facilities and digital servers
• Track the movement of film, prints, and digital files between the studio, storage units, and external vendors
• Maintain the archive's database using FileMaker Pro
• Conduct detailed research to verify original shoot details, publication history, and print provenance; resolve incomplete records where possible
• Collaborate across departments (production, post-production, photo assistants, art directors, and management) to optimize use of archival materials for creative and commercial projects
• Work with IT to continuously update systems and expand server capacity to support a growing digital archive
• Assist licensing agencies in fulfilling usage, rights, and reproduction requests
• Register the copyright for photographic works with the Library of Congress

Registrar Oversee the entire process of fine art photography print production

• Source files and create layouts for printers; provide relevant reference materials and printing guidelines
• Set up and attend print reviews with the artist and printers
• Prepare prints and signature labels for the artist to sign
• Pack prints for transport; deliver signed prints and labels to framers, galleries, or clients
• Maintain accurate documentation for all of the above: consignments, print sales, gift prints, donations, exhibition loans, etc.

Exhibition Producer Manage end-to-end production of site-specific exhibitions worldwide

• Liaise with exhibition venues on floor plans, facility reports, shipping, and installation schedules
• Support the design team in creating scaled artwork for exhibition models
• Oversee print production and pack works for transportation
• Inventory all works being shipped and exhibited
• Manage on-site installation alongside the artist and studio team
• Coordinate and execute deinstallation once exhibitions conclude
• Handle the return and proper storage of all works

Book Producer Manage internal production of photography books from concept to publication

• Serve as the main point of contact with the publisher's production team
• Release and track image files, InDesign files, texts, and proofs
• Set up and attend proof reviews; take detailed notes to share with production team
• Prepare and help finalize captions for published images

Post-publication responsibilities include:

• Order book stock for the artist's personal use and gifts
• Organize in-studio book signings and support external signings arranged by the publisher
• Prepare scripts and image files for book tour talks, slideshows, and press events

Skills & Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in artist studios, galleries, foundations, estates, or museum collections
• Proficient with Mac, FileMaker Pro, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop and InDesign required), Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Dropbox, Epson Scan Software
• Knowledge of archival best practices and industry standards for analog and digital media
• Ability to lift 20+ lbs.
• Valid passport for possible international travel
• Exceptional organizational skills, strong attention to detail, creative problem-solver
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Able to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines
• Adaptable and quick to learn new tools and workflows
• Comfortable working at a fast pace in close collaboration with the artist
• Team-oriented — part of a small studio where everyone contributes to day-to-day operations

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected] with the subject line "Archivist – [Your Name]" . Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We are looking to fill this role as soon as possible, with an overlap period to train alongside the current Archivist before transitioning into the role full-time this summer.

Pay: $85,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Job Tags

Similar Jobs