Manager of Studio Operations

Job Summary

The Harvard Art Museums seeks a Manager of Studio Operations to oversee the day-to-day operations and the experienced staff of two dynamic photo studios. The staff, comprised of three fine arts photographers, a post-production developer, and coordinator, is highly skilled and always in demand, documenting approximately 2,000 art objects and 100 gallery installations per year. The thousands of museum-quality, timeless images that result are destined for the web , publications , and broad public access , used for multiple purposes by the museums' staff, the Harvard University faculty , casual visitors to the website, and scholars throughout the world. Besides managing operations, you will work with the team to explore new workflows and new imaging technology and to integrate them when appropriate. With collections that span millennia, media, and cultures, and contain more than 250,000 objects, the museums are an extraordinary resource to Harvard University and beyond.

The Manager will divide their time between the Harvard Art Museums' Research Center at 200 Innerbelt Road in Somerville and the primary museum building at 32 Quincy Street in Cambridge.

Position Description

• Work with the Director of Digital Infrastructure and Emerging Technologies (DIET) to prioritize studio work, aligning it with departmental goals and broad institutional goals. Work with Digital Imaging and Visual Resources (DIVR) Coordinator on scheduling studio activities to ensure they align with department and museum priorities and establish productive workflow. Track and analyze various production-related statistics to effectively manage and refine workflow and staffing assignments, maintaining high-quality output. Troubleshoot and realign priorities as needed; resolve logistical and technical problems.

• Consult and collaborate with museums colleagues, notably in Curatorial, Conservation, and Collections Management divisions, to ensure effective working relationships and alignment of priorities and schedules. Recommend approaches and processes to accomplish goals.

• Oversee the upkeep of DIVR studios, ensuring staff have the tools and resources needed to do their best work. Continually assess studio technology, imaging/digitization techniques. Work with the Director of DIET on modernization efforts. Maintain the inventory of studio equipment. Work with the DIVR team to plan equipment refresh cycles and upgrades.

• Maintain current knowledge of best practices in the field and make recommendations, as appropriate. Consult and collaborate with peers on campus on studio process and procedures. Work with DIET staff to integrate studio process with core information management practices.

• Work closely with Post-Production Developer on equipment/software research and testing. Work with DIVR staff and campus partners on experimental imaging (e.g. Matterport scanning).

• Develop, plan, and oversee the DIVR budget in collaboration with the Director of DIET and DIET Staff Assistant.

• Develop long-term department plans and strategies in collaboration with the Director of DIET.

• Assist with photo shoots and post-production as needed.

• Supervise DIVR staff including the photographers, post-production developer, and coordinator. Participate in hiring, training staff and developing skills; work with staff to develop and execute performance plans; conduct staff performance reviews.

Basic Qualifications

Minimum of 7 years of related photography studio experience, including a minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience. Bachelor's degree may count towards years of work experience. Minimum of 3 years of experience in cultural heritage environment.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Demonstrate a broad knowledge of digital technologies, standards, issues, and trends relating to fine art documentation and presentation. Advanced knowledge of professional studio equipment including lighting systems and camera systems; demonstrated ability to learn and to adapt to advancements in digital technologies; Advanced knowledge of Adobe software and focus stacking software; understanding of color managed workflows and ability to do color matching; knowledge of large and medium format cameras and related software; high level of visual literacy and appreciation of art and museums preferred. Demonstrated ability to effectively manage conflicting or changing priorities; high level of customer service; excellent problem solving; excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to work under tight deadlines; ability to work collaboratively across museum departments.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. Manual dexterity to operate equipment and handle art objects. Ability to walk, stand, stoop, push, and pull; must be able to reach and work above the shoulders, climb ladders. Must be able to see differences between colors, shades, and brightness.

Additional Information

Please note: This position is on-site.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

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