About the Company
The Mingei International Museum, located in San Diego, celebrates human creativity by preserving and presenting art of the people from all eras and cultures of the world. Through its diverse collections, exhibitions, and educational programs, Mingei fosters an understanding of folk art, craft, and design as expressions of cultural identity and universal human experience. We are dedicated to research, documentation, and the sharing of diverse cultural narratives through art and performance.
Job Description
The Ethnomusicologist (Assistant) will support the curatorial and research departments in documenting, preserving, and interpreting musical traditions and soundscapes of various cultures represented in the museum’s collections and broader research initiatives. This role involves assisting with collection management, exhibition development, research projects, and educational programming related to global music, instruments, and performance practices. The assistant will contribute to the museum’s mission of celebrating human creativity and fostering cross-cultural understanding through the lens of music.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in the research, documentation, and cataloging of musical instruments, sound recordings, and related ethnographic materials.
- Support the development and installation of exhibitions focusing on musical traditions and cultural soundscapes.
- Conduct literature reviews and assist with fieldwork preparation for ethnomusicological research projects.
- Contribute to the creation of educational materials, public programs, and digital content related to world music.
- Help manage and organize audio-visual archives and databases of musical resources.
- Collaborate with curatorial, education, and collections departments on interdisciplinary projects.
- Assist in grant writing and reporting for research and programming initiatives.
Required Skills
- Master's degree in Ethnomusicology, Musicology, Anthropology, or a related field.
- Demonstrated knowledge of diverse global musical traditions and instruments.
- Proficiency in research methodologies and archival practices.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience with audio recording and editing software.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a museum or research environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology or related discipline (in progress or completed).
- Fluency in one or more non-English languages relevant to global musical traditions.
- Experience with museum collections management systems (e.g., The Museum System – TMS).
- Familiarity with digital humanities tools and methodologies.
- Experience in public speaking or presenting research findings.
Perks & Benefits
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Retirement savings plan (403b) with employer matching.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Free museum membership and discounts.
- Collaborative and culturally rich work environment.
How to Apply
If you are interested in this position, please click the "Apply Now" button below. To ensure your application is properly considered, please prepare the following:
- An up-to-date Resume or CV
- A brief cover letter summarizing your experience and motivation
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
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