Research Associate II

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion at Getty

Getty believes diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion are essential to our excellence and to the execution of our mission. The Getty community values differences in the pursuit of inquiry and knowledge, mutual understanding, respect, trust, transparency, and cooperation. We are committed to creating a diverse and welcoming workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and includes individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Individuals of color, women, LGBTQIA+, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Job Summary

Getty is seeking a 1-year full-time, limited-term Research Associate II through June 2024. This position will contribute to the documentation of the Getty Research Institute’s (GRI)  Paul R. Williams archive.

Reporting to the managing archivist for the project in the GRI’s Special Collections Management department, the Research Associate’s primary task will be conducting research to enhance and improve the functionality of the finding aid for the Paul R. Williams drawings and papers. The archive of the most significant African American architect of the 20th century, the Paul R. Williams drawings and papers document the entirety of his career, from early residential commissions during Los Angeles’s housing boom of the 1920s to landmark midcentury civic structures. Approximately 35,000 plans and 10,000 original drawings, blueprints and diazotypes of projects form the bulk of the collection. These drawings are complemented by a small quantity of photographs, correspondence, historical documents, print media, handwritten notes and ephemera, such as awards and plaques. Primary areas of research will include investigating building permits, whether the project was built, and the current status of the structure. Secondary tasks will include helping prepare the archive for digitization, assisting stakeholders with early access to the archive, and participating in outreach activities. The research associate will work closely with the archivist, as well as curators, conservators, and other project stakeholders to increase access to the collection.

The ideal candidate will have experience conducting research in the field of architectural history, deep knowledge of the built environment of greater Los Angeles, facility with the tools for researching property histories in Los Angeles city, county and adjacent areas, and experience working with archives.

Major Job Responsibilities

  • Conducts research under little to no supervision, both library- and field-based, for inclusion in the Paul R. Williams papers finding aid and other project deliverables, including exhibition metadata.
  • Participates in and may oversee and manage research partnerships with project stakeholders, and with local cultural and civic institutions
  • Fosters communications and partnerships across other departments and Getty programs

Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in architectural history, architecture, art history or related field
  • 0-2 years experience in academic setting, research institute, or art museum (education may be considered)

Requirement

All employees must be fully-vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus as a condition of employment. Exemptions from this requirement as a reasonable accommodation due to medical contraindication, disability or sincerely held religious belief or practice will be considered.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Excellent knowledge of advanced research techniques and methodologies in architectural history scholarship
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to develop a professional network that is leveraged in the course of the work
  • Demonstrated ability to build relationships, work in partnership and direct teams
  • Demonstrated ability to read and work with architectural drawings and construction documents
  • Experience working with databases, metadata and digital projects
  • Experience handling architectural drawings and other rare materials
  • Advanced writing and editorial skills
  • Ability to set and meet deadlines for oneself
  • Ability to lift boxes and push book trucks up to 40 pounds
  • Ability to climb ladders
  • Must have means of transportation to research sites throughout Los Angeles County and Southern California

Benefits and Perks

Here are just some examples that Getty offers/provides for full-time employees:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision insurance coverage, starting on date of hire. Getty pays 75%-95% of the premium, depending on the plan selected.
  • 403(b) Employee Investment retirement plan – with up to 5% Getty Match
  • Getty contribution of 6%, on behalf of employee, to 401(a) retirement account
  • Educational Assistance and professional development
  • Paid Vacation, Sick and Personal Days
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Many positions have bi-weekly Off-Fridays
  • On-Site Fitness Center at Getty Center
  • Community service opportunities

To learn more about our comprehensive benefits and long list of perks, go to Getty HR.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status.

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