Harvard Film Archive Internship
Dates: June 2 – August 2, 2025
Summary of Work Assignment and Responsibilities:
The intern will work within both the Harvard Film Archive (HFA) Collections and Cinematheque teams, engaging in projects that enhance access to the HFA’s vast holdings of film, video, audio, paper, and digital materials. Tasks will include collaborating with the Collections Archivist on collections projects and the Program Manager to design a public film series based on personal experiences and interests.
Specific responsibilities include:
- Collections Projects:
- Creating and organizing audio files and transcripts in Archivespace.
- Learning workflows for curating and creating digital access copies of videos and films.
- Preparing collections metadata for transformation to MARC catalog records in Alma.
- Creating inventories for new materials and assisting with appraisal.
- Learning hands-on motion picture film inspection techniques for conservation reporting.
- Film Programming:
- Reviewing and selecting HFA materials for a public film series.
- Researching rightsholders and scheduling selected films.
- Writing promotional texts and securing film stills for advertising.
- Identifying collaborators for promotion and participating in screenings and discussions.
The intern will also meet with HFA staff across collections management, curation, and media preservation and gain exposure to film preservation and exhibition. A curated public film series will ideally be presented to audiences in the Carpenter Center Theater during the internship.
Qualifications:
Basic:
- HS diploma and current enrollment or completed bachelor’s/master’s degree in Film Studies, Moving Image Preservation, Information Studies/Archiving, or a related field.
Additional:
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency in spreadsheet and database software.
- Flexibility and adaptability.
- Previous film programming or archiving experience (preferred but not required).
Physical Requirements:
- Must remain stationary 50% of the time.
- Occasional movement within the office to access files and equipment.
Work Location and Environment:
- Based on-site in Cambridge, MA, with the possibility of a hybrid work model, compliant with Harvard University policies.
- Work is performed in an office/library setting.
Compensation and Benefits (Common for All Harvard Library Internships):
- Travel Costs: Covered up to $1,000, including two bags of luggage each way (coordinated by Harvard Library).
- Housing: Double occupancy in a campus-designated apartment (includes bedding, linen, kitchen utensils, and WIFI). Interns are responsible for toiletries and groceries.
- Hourly Pay: $18/hour for 30 hours per week, totaling up to $4,320 (taxable).
- Professional Development: Biweekly opportunities provided.
Application Information:
To apply, submit a cover letter (highlighting how your work and experience align with Harvard University’s values) and a resume as a single PDF file to Dr. Jerome Offord, Jr., AUL and Chief Diversity Officer at HL_EDIBA@harvard.edu.
Deadline: January 17, 2025